28 May 2025 by Emily Smith
Choosing where to go for an overseas ski holiday is no small task. There’s a lot to think about and an overwhelming number of options to consider. Plus, it’s a significant expense, so there’s pressure to get the decision right.
When we decided our 6 and 8-year-olds, Winter and Teddy, were ready for an international snow trip, and that it would be worth the investment, we had a few key boxes to tick: they’d remember the experience, avoid too many mid-run meltdowns, and be skiing well enough to explore the resort with us. Once we felt confident in all that, the next big challenge was deciding where to go.
The options are literally endless, and with our Epic Australia Pass providing access to over 75 resorts in North America, Europe and Japan, deciding where your Pass will take you is not easy! My recommendation, come up with a few things that you’re looking for in a destination and narrow it down from there.
What were the key things we considered for our snow trip?
Terrain
We wanted to make sure there was a mix of progressive terrain to suit all of us, as well as something super unique. The kids have only ridden in Australia but are strong skiers and progressing fast. But we didn’t want to push them too hard.
We also wanted something that was vastly different to what they’ve skied at home, so real alpine terrain was something we were seeking. We were keen to show the kids some big mountains, wide open, long ski runs and variety of fun terrain. Wherever we went, there needed to be something on offer regardless of conditions or how everyone was feeling. Of course, we love scoring powder days, but it wasn’t our main goal for this trip.
Easy Access to Lifts
Anyone who’s ever wrangled kids in ski boots—while carrying both their gear and your own—knows that location is everything. Easy access to the lifts was essential for us.
Our top priority was staying close to a lift. That way, we could get on the slopes quickly in the morning and avoid a long trek home if one of the kids ran out of steam. Teddy usually has a bit more stamina, so it’s not uncommon for Winter to call it a day first. A well-located base village with family-friendly accommodation options nearby was an absolute must.
The Resort Village
For us, the village atmosphere and nearby amenities were high on the list. My husband Al is a total gearhead—he loves checking out the latest ski tech—so having great gear shops close by (especially ones with kids' gear you can’t always find in Australia) was important.
And me? I had zero plans to spend my holiday cooking! A good mix of restaurants within walking distance was a must. After a day on the slopes, being able to stroll to dinner without a fuss—especially with little legs in tow—was an absolute must.
Fun Things to do Off-snow
While skiing and boarding was our number one priority, I knew that we would need some down days, whether due to weather or tired humans (adults included). With that in mind, we wanted to make sure there were some other fun activities to keep everyone entertained: things like ice skating, rock climbing, and light shows were on our list.
The Big Decision
After working out our priorities, we watched and read ski resort reviews to start narrowing things down. We looked at flights, long range weather forecasts (hoping they would give us a little crystal ball insight) and started to close in on some options.
We decided to skip Japan this time—. Since chasing powder wasn’t our top priority on this trip, it didn’t quite make the list.
The European Alps are undeniably spectacular, but I was a bit hesitant about the long flight time with the kids.
So that left us with North America. We were choosing between Colorado or California in the US and British Columbia in Canada—and (drumroll, in case you missed the heading) Whistler Blackcomb came out on top! It ticked all the boxes for us, plus offered a few added bonuses: a favourable exchange rate and a mild La Niña weather pattern, which is usually a good sign for Whistler Blackcomb’s snow season.
Choosing Whistler Blackcomb was something we didn’t regret for a second! As people who like to get to know a resort – and the largest ski area in North America has so much to uncover – we knew this wouldn’t be the only time we visited. While we were there, we loved it so much that we were already starting to plan our next trip; sussing out accommodation options and working out which snow families we could convince to join us on a family ski trip to Canada!
Whistler Blackcomb Trip Highlights
Exploring the Resort Together!
We absolutely loved how vast and varied the terrain at Whistler Blackcomb is. From high alpine peaks to finding the Magic Castle and Tree Fort to just how unique each different area of the resort feels, there’s just so much to discover and so much fun to be had. It’s hard to put in to words the feeling of heading up the Peak Chair on Whistler Mountain and the
breathtaking views from the top, or the stunning alpine bowls at Symphony, Harmony and 7th Heaven. Not to mention the novelty of the spectacular views from the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains! It’s something you just have to experience for yourself!
The Kids' Progression
With such long runs and so much space we really noticed how much the kids improved during our trip. Their confidence, carving ability and powder skiing all improved through the roof. Some core moments that highlighted this progression for me include: Al and Teddy hiking Spanky’s ladder on Blackcomb to ski Ruby Bowl, heading up Whistler Peak chair as a family and ripping down the Saddle together, some early runs on 7th Heaven with chalky groomers and a Dave Murray downhill mission where I have to admit I was struggling to keep up with Teddy!
The Village
Honestly, Whistler Village is just amazing! After being out on the slopes, as you ski into the village, the vibe is electric—music pumping, venues alive with energy, and smiles all around. It's infectious, and you can't help but get swept up in the festive spirit of the place!
We also just loved how easy everything was. We would spend the afternoon wandering around shopping, trying different places to eat and the kids favourite – going ice skating in the afternoon!
Waffles at Crystal Hut
It’s popular, but in my opinion a must do while you’re skiing or riding Blackcomb. Get in early to beat the crowds or head there on a clear day when you can enjoy waffles on the deck alongside spectacular views. As a bonus, the Crystal zone offers really fun intermediate and above skiing and boarding. It’s protected from the wind, has nice groomers plus some gladed tree skiing too!
Fire & Ice
A family-friendly signature event held in Skier’s Plaza every Sunday where you can check-out world-class freestyle skiing, live entertainment and amazing pyrotechnics. Plus, it’s free! Hot tip: Head to the GLC at the base of Whistler Mountain for dinner and you can watch the show from the balcony!
The Vallea Lumina Light Show
This was a short bus trip out of town but had been recommended to me. It didn’t disappoint. Journeying through the snowy forest with the light and sound display was truly magical.
Scandinave Spa
A must for some down time after a week or two on the slopes. With outdoor thermal pools, cold plunges, saunas and meditation spaces, it’s the perfect place to relax and reset. I did this towards the end of the trip and splurged on a massage as well!
Would I visit Whistler Blackcomb again?
Now that we’re home, reflecting on the trip, would I choose Whistler Blackcomb again? Absolutely! There’s a reason it’s voted as one of the best North American ski resorts for family’s time and time again. I wouldn’t hesitate to book another trip to Whistler Blackcomb with my little adventure family. The only thing I am trying to work out now is how we can stay there longer next time!
Do yourself a favour and add Whistler Blackcomb to your bucket list today.
