Industry News
Big White, British Columbia, is set to unveil a CAD 1 million (USD 720,000) upgrade to its beginner terrain offerings at the onset of the 2026-27 winter season. The Canadian resort is completing construction of its brand-new Polar Passage — a fully covered magic carpet. The new lift will give beginner guests a comfortable reprieve from the elements as they’re smoothly transported back to the top of the learning area, allowing for easy laps in the Happy Valley zone.
Big White has also expanded learning and teaching terrain in the Happy Valley terrain pod, and renamed three existing beginner lifts — Tiny Tracks, Frosty Flyer, and Moose Mover — to add personality and flavor to the area. The Polar Passage and additional terrain won’t just provide beginners with new learning opportunities; they’ll also improve flow in one of the resort’s most popular zones, offering a safer experience for guests during their first days of skiing and riding.
The Polar Passage construction and Happy Valley terrain expansion are just the latest in a string of beginner-centric improvements at the mountain. Big White recently upgraded its family services, completing construction of Tots Town daycare for new skiers ages 18 months to five years, and heavily revamping its Kids’ Center for older children. This heavy investment in beginner terrain and amenities aims to make learning more comfortable for those new to the sport, providing a family-friendly experience for guests of all skill levels.
As Big White Senior Vice President Michael J. Ballingall put it: “Helping more people discover the joy of sliding on snow has been a priority at Big White Ski Resort since the Schumann family purchased the resort in 1985. This year’s investment by third-generation family member Peter Plimmer (CEO) continues that legacy and will create what we believe is the most advanced beginner learning area in Western Canada.”
For those looking to get on the slopes for the first time this winter without breaking the bank on an unfamiliar activity, Big White may be the perfect spot — the resort offers beginner lift tickets for just CAD 29 (USD 21). This affordable price point and array of first-timer offerings highlight Big White’s commitment to making skiing accessible for all and showcase why the mountain was named Best Ski Resort for Beginners at the 2025 Snomad Ski Resort Awards.
