LOCATION: Courtenay, BC
DRIVING DISTANCE (YVR): 4hr 35min (233 km) *includes ferry
MARKED RUNS: 81
TERRAIN: 1,700 acres
RATING: 4/5 Stars
It’s Vancouver Island's Winter Playground
Mount Washington, located in the middle of Vancouver Island, is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. Known for its stunning snow-capped peaks and scenic views, the resort offers a variety of activities. With over 1,700 acres of skiable terrain, it caters to all skill levels, with wide runs for beginners and challenging slopes for advanced riders. The village is cozy, offering convenient accommodations, dining options, and après-ski activities, making it a great choice for families and adventure seekers alike.
I didn’t know much about Mount Washington until I saw some video clips of my friend riding there. He used to live and ride in Quebec and Whistler, and now he’s settled near the mountain—clearly, he knew something I didn’t. To my surprise, the mountain exceeded my expectations. It had challenging runs, short lift lines, and a tight-knit community vibe. The Gold Rush glades offered tight, technical turns, while the West Basin was full of fun bumps and dips. Riding with a local made all the difference—he took me to some of his favourite hidden spots that I never would have found on my own.
The alpine lodge is the typical small resort spot, offering everything you need to fuel up for an amazing day on the slopes. For accommodations, most visitors stay in nearby towns like Courtenay or Cumberland, just a 30-minute drive away. These cozy, classic BC towns offer charming shops and restaurants, giving you a true taste of small-town life.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS
Ferry Rides
Living in Vancouver means I need to take the Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo car ferry to get to Mount Washington. Be sure to reserve your spot in advance to avoid any stress. Also, avoid taking the last ferry of the night, as BC Ferries is known to cancel sailings due to weather or engine issues. It's one of those quirks of relying on ferries for travel.
Leave Your City Problems Behind
Welcome to island life—embrace the pace, slow down, and soak in the relaxed vibe. Remember, kindness and politeness go a long way. A good rule to live by: "Don’t be an A-hole!" Take time to enjoy the stunning surroundings, the new friends you meet, and the unforgettable experiences you share.
Surf & Snowboard in the Same Day
Yup, you can kick off your day with a turtle roll in the ocean and finish it with sunset rides down the snowy slopes.
Pros
- Cozy, small-mountain atmosphere with a close-knit community.
- Stunning ocean views from the top.
- Free winter RV parking available at Sunrise Parking.
Cons
- For non-islanders, travel can be long and expensive due to BC Ferries.
- The mountain isn’t the biggest, so you may find yourself repeating runs, but practice makes perfect.
- Snow accumulation can vary year to year, with temperatures hovering around -10°C. The season may be shorter than expected due to climate change impacts.
This is the go-to destination for islanders looking for easy access to powder-filled runs. Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the trails, Mount Washington provides a memorable winter escape.
WEBSITE:
www.MountWashington.ca
