BC Downhill Ski Hills in the Cariboo

Cooler weather has eager skiers and snowboarders looking forward to hitting the slopes once again. But where will you make tracks? If your local hills are looking a little crowded, perhaps it’s time to head to the friendly downhill ski hills of the Cariboo. Here you’ll find fun and low-key downhill skiing and snowboarding, exceptional terrain, budget-friendly ticket prices, and tons of other winter activities to keep you busy off the slopes.

“Unhurried and unworried” is the motto here; come and find out why for yourself this winter.

Mount Timothy Recreation Resort

In 1988 a group of hard-working volunteers, combined with government support, created what is now Mt. Timothy Recreation Resort. Today the facility is locally-owned and operated, and every year the conditions, facilities, and activities at Mt. Timothy get better and better!

Located just 5.5 hours from Vancouver and near Lac La Hache on Highway 97 (less than an hour south of Williams Lake if you’d prefer to fly in), Mt. Timothy is a terrific option for a family-friendly ski getaway or for anyone looking to take their skills to new terrain. There is no shortage of great snow here, averaging 229 cm (90 in) of fluffy Cariboo powder each year.

Take a step back from crowds and get to know these slopes and the friendly people that run the resort and ski hill.

Important Information about Mt. Timothy Recreation Resort

Mt. Timothy Recreational Resort | Terrence Wall

Dates of Operation: December to March
Avg Daily Adult Lift Ticket Cost: $72 full day, $58 half day
Number of Runs: 35
Number of Lifts: 4
Base Elevation: 1350 m / 4429 ft
Vertical Drop: 310 m / 1017 ft
Additional Activities: Snowshoeing, Tube Park, Snowmobile Trails
Rentals? Yes
Lessons? Yes
On-hill food? Yes

Getting to Mt. Timothy

Mt. Timothy Recreation Resort is located just 30 minutes from Lac La Hache – located between 100 Mile House and Williams Lake on Highway 97. Take Highway 97 north from 100 Mile House for 26 km (16 mi). Turn east on Timothy Lake Road for another 25 km (15 mi). If coming from Williams Lake, take Highway 97 south for 65 km (40 mi) and turn east on Timothy Lake Road. Four-wheel drive or chains in the trunk are highly recommended.

Seasons passes are available to purchase directly from their website, or to purchase a day pass or gift certificate phone Mt. Timothy at 1.250.396.4095.

Places to Stay while Skiing Mt. Timothy

Mt. Timothy is now offering cabins for rent on the mountain – so you and wake up to fresh powder, get up and ski right from your front door! The quaint log cabins can sleep 4-7 people and come complete with a kitchenette.

Also, take a look at the amenities and activities at Ruth Lake Lodge Resort for off-mountain accommodations within a 30-60 minute drive.

Troll Resort

Now in operation for over 50 years, ski and snowboard enthusiasts are encouraged to discover Troll Resort for its impressive vertical (527 m/1729 ft), family-friendly prices, and challenges for all levels of skier and snowboarder. The mountain hosts a variety of terrain – from perfect beginner slopes, long fall-line groomers to steep tree-gladed runs.

Located between Quesnel and Wells, there are plentiful options in this area for lodging, finding equipment (should you need), accommodation, and exploring further.

Troll recently expanded its terrain park to accommodate more line options and features. Offering jumps ranging from Small to XL and new rails and boxes for first-timers and experts, there is something for every rider here, including beginners and kids just getting into the sport.

Troll Resort

Important Information about Troll Resort

Dates of Operation: December to April (Lift operates Friday-Monday through most of the regular season).
Avg Daily Adult Lift Ticket Cost: $65 full day, $50 half day
Number of Runs: 40 plus gladed acreage
Number of Lifts: 4
Base Elevation: 1026 m / 3368 ft
Vertical Drop: 527 m / 1729 ft
Rentals? Yes
Lessons? Yes
On-hill food? Yes

Getting to Troll Resort

Depart east from Quesnel (1.5 hours south of Prince George BC and 4 hours north of Kamloops) along the Barkerville Highway (Highway 26) for 48 km (30 mi).

Lift passes can be purchased at Troll Resort, or at Rocky Peak Adventure Gear on Reid St, Quesnel.

Troll Resort

Places to Stay while Skiing Troll

Plan a stay in Historic Barkerville, which is roughly 30 minutes from the hill. The Barkerville Cabins are ideal – offering four cottages with wheelchair-accessible main floor, full bathrooms, laundry and kitchens. Each cottage sleeps 3-6 people comfortably. When you’re not exploring the hill, take a walk through the historic gold rush town and see the sights!

The St. George Hotel is also located within the Barkerville Heritage Site in an authentic, 7-room manor dating back to the 1890s, although operation dates are limited in winter. Nearby Wells and the surrounding area have a variety of accommodation options, including Historic Stays, The Wells Hotel and Becker’s Lodge.

Meanwhile in the vibrant community of Quesnel, discover history, heritage, and more things to do off the mountain, all while staying in comfortable accommodations including Robert’s Roost Resort, Sandman Quesnel and Prestige Riverside Lodge.

Start Planning your Cariboo Ski Vacation

Get started planning your winter getaway to downhill ski or snowboard in the Cariboo! Visit Mt. Timothy Recreation Resort and Troll Resort for more details, download a travel guide for additional winter things to do during your visit, and make sure you consult our Winter Responsible Travel Guide before you head out on the road.