If you’re looking to escape the crowds of Banff and enjoy a more relaxed, authentic mountain experience, the Columbia Valley is the place to be. Join us for a weekend of skiing, skating, soaking, and incredible food.
The Columbia Valley, in southeastern British Columbia, is a winter paradise located between the Rocky and Purcell Mountain Ranges. With world-class skiing, abundant outdoor activities, natural hot springs, charming mountain towns, and a laid-back atmosphere, this region is one of our favourites in Canada!
This area is known for its breathtaking scenery, epic outdoor adventures, and friendly local vibe. Whether you’re carving on pristine powder, soaking in mineral-rich hot springs, or gliding along the longest ice skating trail in the world, this itinerary will guide you through the best of the Columbia Valley this winter.
*Disclaimer: this blog post is sponsored by Travel Columbia Valley.*
Day 1: Arrive at Panorama Resort & Settle In
Check into The Approach Hotel
Kick off your weekend by heading straight to Panorama Mountain Resort. Located just 20 minutes from Invermere, this ski-in/ski-out destination offers stunning mountain views, comfortable accommodations, and direct access to one of Canada’s best-kept ski secrets.
Check into The Approach Hotel, an affordable and cozy home base for your stay. Recently renovated, this hotel offers modern rooms with ski-in/ski-out convenience. The lodge-style ambiance, plush beds, and easy access to the mountain make it the perfect place to settle in before your weekend adventure begins.
After checking in, take a short stroll around the resort village. Here, you’ll find gear rentals, boutique shops, and firepits where you can warm up with a hot drink.
Dinner on the Hill or in Invermere
You have two great options for dinner: stay at the resort or head into Invermere for a meal with the locals. Below are a few of our top restaurant recommendations.
Alto Kitchen & Bar (at Panorama): A lively spot offering wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta, and craft cocktails. It’s a great option if you want to keep it easy and stay on the hill.
T-Bar & Grill (at Panorama): With a classic sports bar menu, the T-Bar & Grill is perfect for laid-back après or to catch a game. Make sure to try the Pork Schnitzel!
Birchwood Restaurant(in Invermere): A local favourite known for its creative, seasonal dishes and warm ambiance. Perfect for a relaxed but upscale meal.
Ullr Bar (in Invermere): This is your spot if you’re in the mood for a casual, lively atmosphere with fantastic food, beer, and cocktails.
Day 2: Ski Panorama & Soak in the Hot Pools
Breakfast at Alto
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Alto Kitchen & Bar. Located a few short steps from the Approach Hotel directly on your way to the ski lift, it is super convenient. Their breakfast menu features fluffy pancakes, savoury egg dishes, and a drool-worthy breakfast poutine that will fuel you for the slopes.
Skiing at Panorama Mountain Resort
Panorama Mountain Resort is one of Canada’s most underrated ski destinations. With over 4,000 vertical feet of terrain and 2,975 acres of skiable area, it offers something for every level of skier or snowboarder. Unlike busier resorts in Banff or Whistler, Panorama has wide-open runs and minimal lift lines, allowing you to maximize your time on the slopes.
Panorama is ranked as the #1 resort for most space per skier among the world’s 100 largest ski areas, according to a 2019 report by European researcher Montenius Consulting. What does this mean? Think of vast areas of skiable terrain, wide-open groomed runs, and a selection of chairlifts that efficiently spread people out across the mountain.
-Panorama Mountain Resort
Panorama gets an average of 5 meters (16 feet) of snow annually, ensuring fresh powder days throughout the season. The resort caters to all abilities, from perfectly groomed cruisers to challenging glades and bowls.
50% of the runs are suitable for beginners or intermediates. We absolutely loved the glade skiing in the Sun Bowl. Advanced skiers will be thrilled with the Taynton Bowl, a former heli-skiing zone now accessible by lift.
Relax in the Panorama Hot Pools
After an epic ski day, unwind in Panorama’s slopeside hot pools.As a guest of the Approach Hotel, you have complimentary access to multiple pools with varying temperatures, a large hot tub, and a sauna. Soaking your tired muscles while enjoying views of the surrounding peaks is the perfect way to recover before dinner.
Dinner at The Cliffhanger Restaurant
For dinner, we recommend The Cliffhanger Restaurant, located at Greywolf Golf Course. It’s a must-visit dining spot with panoramic views of the ski hill and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
We ordered the Fried Chicken Sandwich and Power Bowl which were both to die for! Pair your meal with a BC wine or a craft beer for the perfect end to your day.
Day 3: Nordic Skiing, Shopping & Skating on Lake Windermere
Breakfast & Coffee at The Approach Hotel Café
Start your final day with a quick coffee and snack from The Fireside Café. Grab a fresh pastry, breakfast sandwich, or energy bar before heading out for another adventure.
Cross-Country Skiing at Panorama Nordic Centre
The Panorama Nordic Centre is a place you can’t miss in the Columbia Valley this winter. With over 20 km of groomed trails to choose from, you can glide through snow-covered forests, beside icy rivers, and through peaceful meadows.
The adorable warming huts along the way make it easy to take a break and soak in your surroundings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, these trails offer a fantastic winter experience.
Once you’re finished, stop at The Shack, which offers casual comfort eats, coffee, hot chocolate, and alcohol that you can enjoy in front of their outdoor firepits.
Lunch at Begginnings in Invermere
After skiing, drive into Invermere for lunch at Begginnings, a cozy café with a fresh, farm-to-table menu. Here, you can enjoy a creative latte, a hearty bowl of soup, a gourmet sandwich, or a nourishing Buddha bowl.
A few of our go-to’s are The Slammin’ Salmon Eggs Benedict, The Begginnings Smash Bowl, and The Breakfast Bun. That said, everything we’ve ever ordered has been fantastic!
Shopping in Invermere
After lunch, stroll through downtown Invermere, where you’ll find a mix of boutique shops, local art galleries, and outdoor gear stores. This is a great place to pick up a souvenir or browse unique, locally made gifts.
Skating on the Lake Windermere Whiteway
End your trip with a truly special experience: skating on theLake Windermere Whiteway. This is the world’s longest skating trail, stretching over 30 km across the frozen lake. Whether you skate the entire distance or enjoy a casual glide, the breathtaking mountain views make this a must-do activity.
We hope you enjoy your time in The Columbia Valley this winter! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions you may have or comment below. We would love to hear from you.
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