Ultimate Guide to Cypress Mountain Ski Resort

Cypress Mountain is just 30 minutes away from downtown Vancouver and served as the host mountain for the 2010 Winter Olympics, where Canadian athletes celebrated their victories. With one of North America’s largest Nordic cross-country ski areas featuring 19 kilometers of groomed tracks, 10 kilometers of self-guided snowshoe trails, and a Snowtube Park, there’s something for everyone. The ski area boasts 600 skiable acres, including six terrain parks, which ensure a memorable experience for both skiers and snowboarders, especially those seeking nighttime adventures.

3. Terrain

Cypress Mountain offers 600 skiable acres with 53 ski runs and a vertical rise of 610 meters (2,001 feet). The six terrain parks cater to all skill levels, ranging from small to XL features.

• Advanced: Experienced skiers will appreciate the double black diamond Top Gun run on Black Mountain, alongside the scenic black diamond runs like Rainbow and Bowen.
• Intermediate: Intermediate skiers can enjoy trails such as Crazy Raven on Black Mountain or the Horizon trail on Mount Strachan. Popular spots for terrain park practice include the Skate Park and Sunrise Park.
• Beginner: Beginners can explore green slopes like Panorama and Windjammer or the longer Collins run.
• First Timers: Introductory lessons are available, along with the Gnarly’s Den terrain park and the Easy Rider bunny hill.

4. Lift Tickets

For the best deals, purchasing lift tickets in advance is advisable. As of the 2018-2019 season, full-day adult lift tickets were $79 (CAD). Discounted tickets are available for late afternoon and evening skiing. Consider a SkyCard or Gold Medal Card for additional lift discounts.

5. Food and Drinks

Cypress Mountain hosts five dining options. While there are no overnight accommodations, the area offers night skiing and après-ski experiences.

• Crazy Raven Bar and Grill: Perfect for apres-ski, serving a wide range of local beverages and hearty meals.
• Cypress Creek Grill: Offers pizza and burgers in a cozy food court atmosphere, ideal for winter outings.
• Gold Medal Cafe: Celebrate Canada’s Olympic history with a coffee or light breakfast here.
• Hollyburn Lodge: A historic stop with sweet treats or hearty meals for a cozy experience.
• Nordic Cafe: Quick refueling options for visitors exploring the Nordic trails.

6. Rentals and Gear

Convenient rental options are available on the mountain, with a full kit costing $47 (CAD) per day. Rentals after 2 p.m. come at a discounted rate, while seasonal rentals start at $149 (CAD).

7. Lessons and Camps

All ages and skill levels can benefit from available lessons, ranging from half-day sessions to private instruction.

• Child Lesson Camps (ages 7-12): Full-day camps for varying skill levels.
• Skooters Group Lessons/Camps (ages 3-6): Enriching and playful programs for young children.
• Youth Lesson Camps (ages 13-17): Camps designed for teens to develop their skiing or snowboarding skills.

8. Skiing and Snowboarding Alternatives

For those seeking alternative winter activities, Hollyburn Mountain features snowshoeing, tubing, and cross-country trails.

• Gnarly’s Tube Park: Offers a thrilling experience with six chutes for tubing fun.
• Snowshoeing: Enjoy 11 kilometers of scenic snowshoe trails and guided tours.
• Cross-country skiing: Enjoy well-groomed trails and beautiful forest scenery.