How to Get Here: Vancouver
Direct Flights to Kelowna
The quickest way to get from Vancouver to Big White is to take a direct flight from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which is the closest airport to the resort.
Approximate Flight Times to Kelowna (YLW)
- Flight Time: ~ 1 hour
- Total Travel Time: ~ 2 hours and 55 minutes (includes approximately 55-minute drive from Kelowna)
Airlines
WestJet and Air Canada offer direct flights to Kelowna. Guests who book through Big White Direct Bookings receive access to preferred rates on Air Canada and WestJet flights. Get more air travel information here.
Book A Shuttle & Let Us Pick You Up
Once you land in Kelowna, you're just a short 55-minute shuttle ride away from Big White's front door. Many visitors opt for the Big White Airport Shuttle, which offers comfortable and convenient transportation directly to the resort. Prebooking your shuttle is recommended, especially during peak ski season. Reserve your shuttle more than 7 days in advance to guarantee your seat. Book your shuttle here.
Driving from Vancouver
The road trip from Vancouver to Big White Ski Resort is a memorable journey filled with stunning sights along the way. You can also take the Ebus from Vancouver Pacific Central Station directly to YLW. The route takes you through the Canadian Cascades and the Fraser Canyon, offering a visual feast for nature lovers.
- Distance: ~ 615 km (382 miles)
- Driving Time: ~ 7 hours
Enter Your Location to Get More Directions
Learn more parking and more driving tips here.
More Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
While the mountain highways offer stunning scenery, their high elevations can lead to unpredictable weather. To ensure a safe journey:
- Check road conditions on DriveBC.ca before leaving Vancouver.
- Ensure your vehicle has winter tires (required between October 1 and April 30) or carry chains.
- Check your vehicle's taillights and headlights.
- Dress warmly and pack winter gear in your trunk.
- Fully charge your cell phone before the trip.
Packing Snacks for the Trip
While there are plenty of stops along the way, packing snacks and drinks can be a lifesaver, especially when travelling with kids. Check out more road trip packing tips here.
Fuelling Up
The cost of fuel can vary significantly depending on the location, taxes, and current market conditions. If you're heading deep into British Columbia and need to refuel, check for local deals using apps like GasBuddy to find the best prices along your route.
There are no fuel stations at Big White; however, the mountain has on-site 100kW, 200A rapid charging stations located at the Mountain Check-in building in the Happy Valley Parking lot, featuring CHAdeMO and Combo (CCS1) plugs for quick and easy charging. Learn more here.
Explore Along the Way
When you embark on this adventure from Vancouver to Big White Ski Resort, you'll experience the beauty of some of British Columbia's most epic landscapes while anticipating the winter wonderland that awaits you at your destination. Safe travels! Have some more questions? Contact us
Book Direct and Save
Skip the guesswork. Book through Big White Direct Bookings to access the largest selection of on-mountain accommodation, exclusive hot deals, savings on lift tickets, and expert advice on flights, shuttles, lessons, and rentals.
For more tips, visit our First Timer's Guide to Big White.
