Breathtaking back bowls, challenging black diamond runs and glade skiing throughout the entire ski a
If it’s the ultimate challenge you seek, Revelstoke is just the resort for you. Fast, modern lifts and the 1730 meter elevational difference make it possible for the resort to have not only a lot of trails, but a lot of long trails as well. For a morning warm-up, you’ll find quite a few groomed black diamond runs in the ski area. Our favorites were the especially long “Devil’s Club” and “Pitch Black.” But Revelstoke’s real specialty is freeriding; most of the black diamonds aren’t groomed, and with the right snow conditions, they are incredible powder runs. And considering the fact that the ski area receives an average of 12-18 meters of snow a year, assuming good snow conditions is a pretty safe bet. If you head down the mountain to the right from the upper terminal of the Stoke chairlift, you’ll already be on your way into back country-fun. A short climb brings you into the “Upper Southside.” It’s located on the edge of the ski area, so you’ve got a good chance of being the first to dip your ski into its powder. A further special highlight for freeriders is the “North Bowl Area,” which you should access by taking the 5-minute climb off to the left of the Stoke’s upper terminal. Up there you’ll find all the runs between “Drop In” and “Greely Bowl.” Immediately following the first section of “Greely Bowl,” you’ll hit Revelstoke’s next challenge – the “Beauty Glades” (all the way to the left on the trail map) in the “North Bowl Area” combine exciting glade skiing and perfect powder. The “Snorkel Glades” and the “Glades of Glory” off of the Ripper chairlift also provide ideal terrain for tree lovers. Another insider’s tip is the “Conifers of Gnarnia Glades,” just below the Revelation gondola. If you’re still left wanting after all of that, sign up for a day of “Cat Skiing” at the Revelstoke Outdoor Center at the base. Pristine powder, varied terrain and challenging glade skiing are guaranteed to be part of the package. If the up-mountain ride for Cat-Skiing is too slow for you, you might want to ask about Heli-Skiing options as well. There are quite a few companies in Revelstoke that have offered the service for over 32 years. A much more affordable alternative for powder freaks, however, is offered by the ski resort itself; for only $20 you can sign up for the “Fast Tracks Breakfast Club” on the weekends, which not only includes a hearty breakfast, but also guarantees that you will be one of the first ones up the mountain. All in all, we believe it won’t be long before Revelstoke is more than just an “intermediates and experts resort”.