Canada’s Ski Secret: The hidden gem resorts for this snow season
Since the popular sport reached the country in 1,000 AD, Canada has become a must-visit destination known for its immaculate snow, beautiful scenery, and variety of terrain. Now, there is an estimated 2.5 million skiers and snowboarders across Canada - so it comes as no surprise that the country is full of resorts of all sizes, with runs of all difficulties.
Once the resort doors open from mid-November to late April, it’s not just locals who are expected to reach for their skis. Every year, Canada sees approximately 19 million tourists make the journey to experience some of the world-famous slopes. But, not everyone wants to be skiing among thousands of others and would prefer somewhere more tranquil, where only a few have skimmed the fresh snow.
So, which Canadian town is home to these secret slopes?
To mark the beginning of the 2024/2025 ski season, Jackpot City has defrosted the numbers to reveal which resort is Canada’s hidden gem.
Experts at the online casino looked at 173 ski resorts across Canada, comparing their visitor ratings and number of reviews on Google to find where the least amount of people are visiting but reviewing them highly.
The top 20 hidden gem ski resorts across Canada in 2024
Mount Maichen in Watson Lake, Yukon has emerged as Canada’s top hidden gem resort in 2024, with a rating of 4.9 stars out of 5, from eight reviews. The resort offers a range of ski runs for all difficulties, picturesque views, and snow that stays dry and powdery throughout the season - leaving us wondering why more people aren’t aware of the peaceful piste.
Menihek Nordic Ski Club in Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador, follows closely behind in second place also with 4.9 stars out of 5 with 16 reviews. Nestled amongst birch and spruce trees, with skiing allowed into the evening, the resort is a hit with cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
Ranking in third as a top hidden gem resort in Canada is the Thunderhill Ski Area in Swan River Valley, Manitoba, with a rating of 4.9 stars out of 5 from 29 Google reviews. Lying in between the Duck Mountains and the Porcupine Provincial Forest, the resort has over 24 perfectly groomed ski runs, 2.2km of cross-country ski trails and cozy chalets to enjoy a warm drink after a busy day.
As two of the largest and most popular provinces for skiing in Canada, it’s no surprise that both Ontario and British Columbia have two resorts each listed in the top 10 hidden gems. All four resorts have a score of 4.8 stars out of 5 and offer vast ranges of alpine skiing, cross-country and snowboarding routes.
Out of the 173 resorts analyzed, Blue Mountain in Collingwood, Ontario came out at bottom of the hidden gem list with a huge 19,002 reviews. Although scoring an impressive 4.4 stars out of 5, the ski resort is an extremely popular one for visitors. With over 40 runs, including a snow school and ski jumps, and 364 acres of skiable terrain, it makes sense that winter sport lovers are going to make their way there.
Whatever the type of skiing holiday you’re looking for there is bound to be a resort in Canada suited perfectly. But would you rather join the crowds for apres-ski or be at peace with nature in one of the hidden gems?
Whether you’re relaxing after a day on the slopes or enjoying the thrill of online gaming, Jackpot City Casino offers a rewarding experience to fuel your passion. Play responsibly and discover your next win.
ENDS
Methodology
Jackpot City analyzed data from Google to find the number of reviews and ratings for 173 ski resorts in Canada, to find which resort had the highest rating and lowest number of reviews.
The resort with the highest Google rating and lowest number of reviews was revealed as Canada’s hidden gem ski resort, where visitors have the highest chance of finding slopes that aren’t filled with crowds of people and are still relatively undiscovered.
Data correct as of November 2024.