If you’re a ski or board fanatic, you support the LGBT2Q+ community, and you want to be part of something awesome this year, you should plan to head to Big White Ski Resort for April 7 – 9. Big White is located about an hours drive from popular summer destination hotspot, Kelowna B.C.

 

Not only will there be beautiful spring skiing, maybe some fluffy snow, and yes, heaps of Aussies, but Big White is hosting it’s first annual pride celebration, Peak Pride. Big White is now the second mountain in B.C. to host a pride festival in support of the LGBT2Q+ community, the first being Whistler. And since the Whistler celebration has already come and gone, Big White is your last opportunity this year to get your rainbow on, winter style.

 

Here are some keys to a fabulous road trip to Big White:

 

  1. If you’re coming from the Coast, make sure to check the coquihalla weather conditions regularly. It is notorious for intermittent fog, ice, and sometimes treacherous conditions. It’s likely that you’ll be safer come the spring time but better safe than sorry.
  2. If you’re coming on a budget, try doing ride share! My current favorite is Pop Rideshare (it’s an app). You make your own profile, and can check driver profiles, who then post their trips and you can request to join their car. Money transactions are managed through the app so there’s less chance of rip offs for drivers or passengers. If you can only make it to Kelowna, there’s an express bus that can take you up in the morning from all over the city (more information here). Its $20 one-way and $25 round trip.
  3. If you can, stay longer! The coveted champagne powder of Big White is worth the time and money. To make this more affordable, grab a Biggie Card from one of many locations in Kelowna. ONE Boardshop is convenient as it is right off the highway up to the mountain. It costs $79 and you can reload it online to avoid long waits in ticket queues.
  4. Find locals to ride with. This can be done easily by going out to Snowshoe Sam’s or Sessions for après drinks, or a night out on the hill.
  5. If you’re going to pride festivities, do some research and get your tickets for the events you like beforehand. The bars do reach capacity very quickly. I feel like this is so obvious, but, bring some rainbow and show your support for the community.
  6. When you’re out for the night and looking for a snack, you must try the MEAT PIES. They’re served in the entranceway of Snowshoe Sam’s bar. Literally everyone raves about them.
  7. Be careful where you park. Just look at the signs to be sure. I’ve had a few friends get towed from the mountain, and that’s not where you want to spend $400.

 

So whether you choose to come for Peak Pride, or any other time that you can get off work or school for a few days, Big White is a great candidate for a B.C. ski destination.

Need I say more?