Step out of the Golden Eagle Gondola – the resort’s main lift – and it’s hard not to stop and gape at the remarkable pristine slopes that stretch ahead in a lofty wonderland of clouds and peaks.

But what’s below just as seductive to skiiers and boarders looking for backcountry-style adventure, since the ski area encompasses many untamed open bowls, steep chutes, glades and gullies. But even beginners will find their scenic 10km cruise from summit-to-base worth the price of entry. The snow may not be as abundant as elsewhere in the Rockies, but Kicking Horse’s northeastern aspect helps preserve its quality, and the warmer temperatures make skiing more pleasant.

Orientation

The Golden Eagle Gondola travels up CPR Ridge to neatly bisect the resort and its four bowls: skiers’ left lies the wide open Crystal Bowl and the Stairway to Heaven lift with access to Feuz Bowl; to skiers’ right lies the steep and narrow Bowl Over from where there’s hiking access to the expert-only Super Bowl.