Skiing Panorama is defined by that 1,300m vertical. Runs here are long in a way that European skiers will appreciate - sustained, leg-burning descents that give you proper mileage on every lap. The mountain divides into distinct zones: the lower village area has gentle learning terrain, the mid-mountain opens into wide intermediate groomers through the forest, and the upper mountain above the treeline delivers exposed alpine bowls, steep chutes, and the dramatic Taynton Bowl - a vast backcountry-style zone accessible by a short hike.

For UK visitors, North American trail ratings differ from the European system. Green circles mark beginner terrain (similar to European greens and easy blues). Blue squares cover intermediates but span a wider difficulty range than European blues - some feel closer to a European red. Black diamonds indicate advanced terrain, and double black diamonds are expert-only, featuring steep chutes, cliff bands, or exposed alpine lines. There's no direct equivalent to European red runs, so intermediates should expect blue squares to vary in steepness and character.

Skiing for beginners in Panorama

Beginners at Panorama start on the lower village slopes, where a dedicated learning area with surface lifts provides wide, gentle terrain that's well separated from the rest of the mountain. The green runs here are smooth, well-groomed, and sheltered from wind, making the first few days of learning as comfortable as possible. The village's ski-in/ski-out layout means you can step out of your accommodation and be on the beginner slopes in minutes.

As confidence builds, the Horizon Chair opens up longer green runs with slightly more pitch and lovely views down the valley. The progression to easy blues is gradual, and the runs are wide enough to link turns without feeling cramped. It's worth noting that the beginner terrain makes up around 10% of the mountain, so it's more limited in scope than at purpose-built family resorts - but what's there is well-designed and effectively run.

WeSki insider tip: Take the gondola for the ride rather than the skiing on your first day - the views from the mid-station are spectacular, and the cafe up there makes a great spot for a break while more experienced members of your group explore higher up.*

Intermediate skiing in Panorama

Intermediates will love Panorama. The mid-mountain is packed with long, beautifully groomed blue runs that take full advantage of the vertical - runs like Schober's Dream and Sun Bowl sweep down through the forest with consistent pitch, excellent snow, and enough width to carve at speed. The sensation of skiing 1,300m of continuous vertical on a groomed blue is something you don't often get outside the Alps, and it's Panorama's real calling card for this level.

For those ready to push further, the blue-to-black transitions higher on the mountain provide a natural step up. The upper groomers are steeper and more exposed, with views that demand you stop and look. The Champagne Express high-speed quad accesses the best of this terrain, and on a clear morning the combination of firm corduroy, big views, and empty runs is genuinely special. By mid-week, confident intermediates often find themselves eyeing the entrance to Taynton Bowl.

WeSki insider tip: The groomers off the Champagne Express are best first thing in the morning - firm, fast corduroy with the sun hitting the slopes and barely a soul in sight. It's the best intermediate skiing on the mountain by a wide margin.*

Advanced and expert skiing in Panorama

Over half the mountain is graded advanced or expert, and the quality of the steep terrain is what makes Panorama more than just a groomer resort. The upper mountain above the treeline delivers open bowls, sustained black diamond faces, and chutes that demand confident, aggressive skiing. The Monster Chair accesses some of the steepest in-bounds terrain, with fall-line runs through rocky, variable snow that test your line choice and nerve.

The crown jewel is Taynton Bowl - a vast, hike-accessed zone of alpine bowls, chutes, and open powder fields that feels more like backcountry skiing than a resort. The 20-minute hike from the top of the Summit Chair is worth every step, opening up terrain that holds fresh powder long after the rest of the mountain has been tracked out. The scale is impressive, with multiple entry points and lines that range from wide open faces to narrow, technical couloirs. For experts, Taynton Bowl alone justifies the trip.

WeSki insider tip: Taynton Bowl faces north and holds cold, dry powder for days after a storm. Start early - the hike takes 20 minutes and the first tracks are worth it. Bring a pack with water and snacks; you'll want to stay up there for multiple laps.*

Snowboarding in Panorama

Panorama suits snowboarders well, particularly freeriders drawn to the natural terrain and deep powder in Taynton Bowl. The wide mid-mountain groomers are excellent for carving, and the sustained vertical means long, satisfying runs on every lap. There's one terrain park with a mix of jumps and rails for freestyle sessions between powder laps. The main watch-out is a few flat traverse sections on the lower mountain - keep momentum up to avoid the walk of shame.

Off-piste skiing

Taynton Bowl is Panorama's off-piste headline - a vast alpine zone of open bowls, chutes, and powder fields accessible by a short hike from the summit. It's lift-accessed backcountry in everything but name, with terrain that holds fresh tracks for days after snowfall. Beyond Taynton, the trees on the upper mountain hide pockets of powder between marked runs. For those wanting to go further, Panorama is located near some of BC's finest heli-skiing and cat-skiing territory, with operators running from Invermere and the Columbia Valley into the Purcell and Bugaboo ranges.

Panorama ski school and lessons

Panorama's ski and snowboard school runs group and private lessons for all ages and abilities, with children's programmes starting from age three. The dedicated beginner area keeps learners in a low-pressure environment, and group sizes are kept small. Adult clinics cover everything from first-timers to powder technique and steep-terrain skills. The mountain's varied terrain makes it an effective place to learn at every level. All instruction is in English.

Panorama terrain parks

Panorama has one terrain park on the mid-mountain, with a progression of features from beginner-friendly rollers and small boxes to larger jumps and technical rails. The park is maintained throughout the season and provides a solid option for riders wanting to mix freestyle sessions with the resort's natural terrain. The emphasis at Panorama is on freeride and big-mountain skiing rather than park infrastructure, but the setup is well-kept and enjoyable.

1. Panorama Family ski holiday
2. Things to do in Panorama
3. Planning your trip in Panorama
4. How to get to Panorama
5. Panorama FAQs

Panorama family ski holiday

Panorama's self-contained village makes it a practical choice for families. The ski-in/ski-out layout means no morning drives or shuttle logistics, and the compact village keeps accommodation, restaurants, rental shops, and the ski school all within a short walk. The children's programmes start from age three with dedicated learning areas, and the friendly, unhurried atmosphere makes the resort feel welcoming for families with younger children. The gondola provides easy access to the mid-mountain without having to navigate any steep terrain.

Older children and teenagers will find plenty to keep them challenged. The mid-mountain blues are satisfying enough for progressing intermediates, and the terrain park offers a place to develop freestyle skills. Adventurous teenagers with strong skiing may even tackle the entrance to Taynton Bowl with a parent, which would be the kind of experience they talk about for years. The hot pools are a guaranteed family highlight - soaking under the stars after a day on the mountain works for every age group.

Dining in the village is family-friendly, with several casual restaurants serving everything from pizza and burgers to sushi and steak. The village also has a small grocery store for self-catering, a games room, and an ice rink. For a day off the slopes, the nearby town of Invermere has additional shops and restaurants, and the Columbia Valley Wetlands provide scenic winter walks. The overall pace is relaxed and manageable - the kind of resort where the holiday runs smoothly without requiring much planning.

Things to do in Panorama

Panorama's setting in the Columbia Valley, between the Purcell Mountains and the Rockies, gives rest days and non-skiers a scenic backdrop that goes well beyond the village. The hot pools alone are reason enough to take a day off the mountain, and the surrounding valley provides winter activities and day-trip options that keep everyone occupied.

Snow activities

The Purcell Mountains and Columbia Valley provide a range of winter activities beyond the resort:

• Hot pools: Canada's largest slope-side hot pool complex, with multiple pools carved into the mountainside and valley views.
• Cross-country skiing: 20km of groomed Nordic trails in and around the resort, with scenic routes through the forest.
• Snowshoeing: Guided and self-guided trails through the Purcell Mountains and along the Columbia Valley.
• Ice skating: Outdoor rink in the village, open to all and often lit in the evenings.
• Dog sledding: Husky-pulled sled rides through the valley, available through local operators in the Columbia Valley.
• Snowmobiling: Guided backcountry tours into the surrounding mountains with dramatic scenery.
• Heli-skiing: World-class heli-skiing in the Purcell and Bugaboo ranges, accessible from the Columbia Valley.
• Tubing: Dedicated tubing area near the village for family-friendly fun.

Non-snow activities

The village and surrounding Columbia Valley provide enough variety to fill rest days comfortably:

• Panorama Hot Pools: Even if you've been in them after skiing, the hot pools deserve a dedicated daytime visit for the views alone.
• Invermere town: The nearest town, 18km away, with independent shops, cafes, bakeries, and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere.
• Spa and wellness: Massage, facial, and body treatments available at the resort and in the surrounding area.
• Radium Hot Springs: Natural mineral hot springs in Kootenay National Park, about 35km away, surrounded by dramatic canyon walls.
• Columbia Valley Wetlands: Scenic winter walks through one of the longest continuous wetland systems in North America.
• Wildlife viewing: Deer, elk, and eagles are commonly spotted in the Columbia Valley and along the wetland trails.
• Village games room and activities: Indoor entertainment including games, bowling, and family activities in the village.
• Scenic drives: The highways through the Columbia Valley and over mountain passes provide dramatic winter scenery.

Panorama restaurants

Panorama's dining scene is concentrated in the village and covers enough ground to keep a week varied. The options range from casual pizza and pub food to more refined fare, with a couple of on-mountain stops for mid-day refuelling. For additional variety, the town of Invermere is a short drive away and has its own selection of independent restaurants and cafes.

• Chopper's Landing: The village's main restaurant with steak, seafood, and Canadian dishes in a warm lodge-style setting.
• T-Bar & Grill: Casual pub with burgers, wings, cold beers, and big screens - a reliable gathering spot.
• Lusti's at the Summit: Mid-mountain restaurant accessible by gondola, with soups, sandwiches, and views across the valley.
• Clancy's Pub: Lively village pub with comfort food, craft beers, and live music on selected evenings.
• The Great Hall: Slope-side cafeteria with hearty, quick-service food for a mid-day refuel.
• Heli's Grill: Casual spot for pizza, pasta, and family-friendly dining in the village.
• Strand's Old House Restaurant (Invermere): Fine dining in a heritage house with seasonal menus and an excellent wine list.
• The Invermere Bakery: Worth the drive for fresh bread, pastries, and coffee in a charming small-town setting.

WeSki insider tip: Make the trip to Strand's Old House in Invermere at least once - it's the best restaurant in the valley, set in a beautifully restored heritage home with cooking that would impress anywhere. Book ahead.*

Panorama après-ski

Panorama's après-ski revolves around the hot pools. After a day on the mountain, most people head straight for the slope-side pools to soak tired muscles while watching the last light fade over the Rockies. It's a uniquely Panorama experience - relaxed, scenic, and social in a way that beer-and-DJ après can't match. The pools stay open into the evening and are often at their most atmospheric after dark, when the steam rises against the mountain backdrop.

For a more traditional drink, the village has a handful of bars and restaurants that keep things going into the evening. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly - this isn't a party resort, and the crowd is generally here for the skiing rather than the nightlife. That said, Clancy's and the T-Bar get lively on weekends with live music and a sociable crowd, and the village's compact layout means everything is a short walk from wherever you're staying.

Après-ski spots to know:

• Panorama Hot Pools: The main event - slope-side soaking with mountain views and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
• T-Bar & Grill: Cold beers, pub food, and big screens - the go-to for a casual post-ski drink.
• Clancy's Pub: Live music evenings, craft beer, and the liveliest atmosphere in the village.
• Chopper's Landing lounge: More refined setting for cocktails and wine in a warm, lodge-style bar.
• The Great Hall deck: Slope-side terrace for a quick beer in the afternoon sun before heading to the pools.
• Jackalope Lodge: Cosy fireside lounge for a quiet drink and a wind-down at the end of the day.

Planning your trip to Panorama

Panorama accommodation

Panorama's accommodation is concentrated in the ski-in/ski-out village at the base of the mountain. Options range from hotel rooms and studio suites to larger condos and townhouses with full kitchens, suited to families and groups. The village layout means everything is walkable - lifts, restaurants, hot pools, and rental shops are all within a few minutes of any property.

Self-catering condos are the most popular choice, offering space and flexibility, particularly for families staying a week. A small number of properties sit slightly further from the village core and tend to be quieter and more spacious. For a wider range of options or a different atmosphere, the town of Invermere is 18km away with B&Bs, vacation rentals, and motels, though you'll need a car for the daily commute to the resort. The village's self-contained nature is one of its biggest practical advantages - once you're there, you don't need to go anywhere else.

Panorama ski pass

The Panorama lift pass covers all 11 lifts and full access to the resort's 2,975 acres, including Taynton Bowl. Multi-day passes are available and become better value for longer stays. The resort is also included on the Ikon Pass for those planning to ski multiple North American resorts during the same season. Check for family and multi-day pass options when booking your Panorama ski holiday through WeSki to find the best fit for your trip.

Equipment hire

Equipment rental is available in the village at the resort's rental centre, which carries a full range of skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets. Performance and powder-specific options are available for those wanting wider skis or higher-spec gear - worth considering given the mountain's freeride terrain and deep snow potential. Booking ahead during peak periods is recommended. A couple of shops in Invermere also offer rental and tuning services at sometimes lower rates.

Getting around Panorama

Panorama's village is compact and entirely walkable, with accommodation, lifts, restaurants, hot pools, and shops all within a few minutes of each other. There's no need for transport within the resort itself - the ski-in/ski-out layout eliminates shuttle buses and car parks from the daily routine.

For trips to Invermere, Radium Hot Springs, or further afield, a rental car is the most practical option. The 18km drive to Invermere takes about 20 minutes on a well-maintained road. Taxis can be arranged but are limited, so a car gives you flexibility for evening dining in town or day trips into the Columbia Valley and Kootenay National Park. If you're staying entirely within the resort, you can manage comfortably without a vehicle.

How to get to Panorama

The nearest major airport is Calgary International Airport, approximately 310km to the east, with a drive time of around three and a half hours through the Rocky Mountains via the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 93 through Kootenay National Park. The drive is spectacular, passing through Banff National Park and over mountain passes. Cranbrook/Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) is closer at around 140km, about 90 minutes' drive, with limited domestic connections. Flights from the UK typically route through Calgary, with direct transatlantic services from several UK airports.

WeSki offers car rentals from the airport as well as private transfers to Panorama. Add them to your Panorama ski holiday package for seamless door-to-door travel.

Panorama FAQs

How big is the vertical drop at Panorama?

Panorama has a vertical drop of 1,300m, making it one of the largest in Canada. For context, that's comparable to many major Alpine resorts and significantly more than most other Canadian destinations. The vertical translates into long, sustained runs - the longest is 6.5km - that give you proper mileage on every descent. It's the mountain's defining physical characteristic and one of the main reasons experienced skiers seek it out.

Is Panorama good for intermediates?

Very much so. Around 35% of the terrain is graded intermediate blue, and the long vertical means those blue runs are genuinely sustained - some stretching several kilometres in a single descent. The mid-mountain groomers are excellent, with wide, well-maintained trails that take full advantage of the vertical. The progression to steeper terrain is natural, with blue-to-black transitions that build confidence over the course of a week. The resort's expert reputation sometimes overshadows just how good the intermediate skiing is.

What is Taynton Bowl?

Taynton Bowl is a large alpine bowl accessible by a 20-minute hike from the top of the Summit Chair. It's essentially lift-accessed backcountry - steep, open powder fields, chutes, and rock features in an exposed alpine setting. The bowl is included on the standard lift pass and is maintained by ski patrol, but it's ungroomed and requires strong skiing ability and good fitness. On powder days, it's one of the most exciting in-bounds zones at any Canadian resort. It's for advanced and expert skiers only.

How does Panorama compare to Kicking Horse?

Both are BC interior resorts known for big vertical and expert terrain. Panorama has a larger skiable area (2,975 acres vs Kicking Horse's 2,800), more intermediate terrain, and a self-contained village with hot pools and family facilities. Kicking Horse has a steeper overall profile and arguably more challenging in-bounds expert terrain, plus a celebrated mountaintop restaurant. Panorama suits a broader range of abilities and works better for families, while Kicking Horse appeals most to advanced and expert skiers. They're close enough to combine on a multi-resort trip.

How do North American trail ratings work for UK skiers?

North America uses a different system from Europe. Green circles are beginner terrain (similar to European greens). Blue squares cover intermediate runs but span a wider range than European blues - some feel closer to a European red. Black diamonds are advanced, and double black diamonds are expert-only. There's no direct equivalent to European red runs. At Panorama, the blue groomers are long and well-maintained, while the upper mountain's blacks and double blacks are genuinely challenging.

Is Panorama good for families?

Yes. The self-contained village, ski-in/ski-out layout, and hot pools make Panorama a practical and enjoyable family destination. The ski school takes children from age three, and the village keeps everything within walking distance. The beginner terrain is more limited than at resorts like Sun Peaks, but it's well set up for learning. Older children and teenagers will thrive on the variety of terrain, and the hot pools are universally popular. The relaxed pace and compact layout make family logistics easy.

What are the hot pools like?

Panorama's hot pools are Canada's largest slope-side hot pool complex. Multiple pools are carved into the mountainside at different temperatures, with views across the Columbia Valley to the Rocky Mountains. They're open from morning through to late evening and are included in many accommodation packages. After a day on the mountain, they're the natural gathering spot - relaxing, scenic, and social. They're genuinely one of the best post-ski experiences at any Canadian resort and worth factoring into your decision.