Mount Washington Alpine Resort - Image 1
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Mount Washington Alpine Resort

4.5
·2k reviews·, Canada

Year-round mountain resort offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and ziplining with stunning Vancouver Island vistas.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter weekdays

Fewer crowds, more runs

CrowdLow
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Mount Washington Alpine Resort - Image 1

Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Best Time

Winter weekdays

Fewer crowds, more runs

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Year-round mountain resort offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and ziplining with stunning Vancouver Island vistas.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Stunning views and abundant snow make this a must-visit for winter sports and summer adventures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Plan for the Drive

The drive can take around 3 hours, especially mid-week. Plan accordingly and leave early.

💧 Bring Your Own Water

During drought, the resort may ask visitors to bring drinking water. Check advisories.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Winter Slopes

Winter Slopes

Ski runs

Carve down diverse runs for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Experience the thrill of alpine skiing and snowboarding.

Instagram
Summer Hiking Trails

Summer Hiking Trails

Various trails

Explore stunning alpine meadows and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. Paradise Meadows is a must-see.

Reddit
Zipline Adventure

Zipline Adventure

Zipline course

Soar through the air with exhilarating zipline tours offering unique perspectives of the mountain.

Reddit
Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Mountain peaks

Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Coast Range.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers year-round activities. For skiing and snowboarding, winter months are prime, but check snow reports. Summer brings hiking and biking. Consider weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak season. Instagram

Water Woes and What to Pack

During drought periods, visitors may be asked to bring their own drinking water. Always check resort advisories before heading up. Pack layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer. Instagram

Best Times

When
Winter weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more runs
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temps, best views
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday season evenings
Why
Festive atmosphere, night skiing
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

✨ Counting down to 2025 with the top 5 most-loved moments from our feed in 2024! For our grand finale, we’re soaking in this stunning sunset from Mount Washington Alpine Resort in the Comox Valley. 🌄 Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the peaks of Strathcona Provincial Park, the Coast Range comes alive with a breathtaking pink hue. With over 1,700 acres of pristine alpine terrain, Mount Washin...
supernaturalbc
2.8K likes • 48.1K views

🚗 Plan for the Drive

The drive can take around 3 hours, especially mid-week. Plan accordingly and leave early. Reddit

💧 Bring Your Own Water

During drought, the resort may ask visitors to bring drinking water. Check advisories. Instagram

Looking for the ultimate winter adventure on Vancouver Island? ❄️⛷️ Mount Washington Alpine Resort @mountwashington is the place to be! Whether you’re carving down the slopes, hitting the tube park, or just soaking in the breathtaking mountain views, this resort has something for everyone. From beginner to expert, the ski and snowboard runs offer plenty of variety, while the tube park guarantees ...
nearme.victoria
470 likes • 22.7K views
🎄✨ Your Favorite Alpine Holidays Are Back! 🎉❄️ Join us at Mount Washington Alpine Resort for an enchanting holiday season from December 22nd to New Year's Eve! We're lighting up the alpine with a festive lineup: 🚠 Night Skiing & Riding - Starts Dec 22nd and available daily during the holidays 🎅 Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus - Dec 21st-23rd 🔥 Torchlight Parade, Fireworks, and Ugly Sweater Day!...
mountwashington
208 likes • 23.5K views

🧥 Pack Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers for comfort in any season. Instagram

🐦 Feed the Jays

Bring bird seed to Paradise Meadows; Grey Jays and Stellar Jays love to land on hands! Reddit

Staff at Mount Washington Alpine Resort, a popular ski destination located about a 30-minute drive from the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, have asked visitors to bring their own drinking water due to a lack of water in the local reservoirs. ⁠ ⁠ The resort issued a statement saying Vancouver Island is experiencing the worst drought levels in 15 years and the potable water supply on the mountain ...
cbcvancouver
1.4K likes • 65.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Plan for the Drive

The drive can take around 3 hours, especially mid-week. Plan accordingly and leave early. Reddit

💧 Bring Your Own Water

During drought, the resort may ask visitors to bring drinking water. Check advisories. Instagram

🧥 Pack Layers

Mountain weather is unpredictable. Dress in layers for comfort in any season. Instagram

🐦 Feed the Jays

Bring bird seed to Paradise Meadows; Grey Jays and Stellar Jays love to land on hands! Reddit

🎟️ Check for Deals

Look for season passes or early bird specials to make your visit more affordable. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Mount Washington Alpine Resort for its stunning natural beauty, abundant winter snowfall, and diverse activities like skiing, hiking, and ziplining. The friendly staff and uncrowded slopes during weekdays are often highlighted. However, some feel the bike park could benefit from more investment, and pricing can be a concern for frequent visitors.

"We visited the Mount Washington Alpine Resort in July to go hiking. We were kindly greeted by a volunteer upon walking up to the main lodge who gave us lots of great insight of the "do's and don'ts ". We started hiking up the mountain and somehow ended upon the "Giver" trail…. Then we ended up completely where we weren't even on a trail anymore and we were just following (what I assume is) the emergency response route. Despite the lack ofsignage, we had a beautiful hike that had no other people and the same stunning views.
When we were done, we got a bite to eat at the cafe/BBQ outside the lodge. I ordered a summer salad that was sweet, tangy and refreshing after a big hike."

Kaytlin Campbell

"I went ziplining here today with some family, and it was awesome! The guides were very friendly and helpful throughout the experience. The ziplines were also fun and close together, so we didn't have to travel far to get to each one. Beautiful place, great guides, great experience."

Alexander Donaldson

"I've been riding the bike park here every year since it reopened in 2016, and have been a season pass holder for the past several years. Although I wish they would invest a lot more money in the bike park and make a world class venue out of it, what is there is still a lot of fun and a great skill builder on the bike. I have also ridden the Zipline (amazing), stayed on the mountain in both the deer and bear Lodge, and a few years ago began learning how to ski. I live in Langford so getting up here takes several hours, but it's worth it.

Going back to my comment about needing investment in the bike park - there's so much untapped potential. We need many more trails, better jump design, and more regular maintenance. There's no reason we couldn't have trails off the sunset chairlift side, or to have more than one trail option from eagle."

Dustin Batchelor

What People Like

Beautiful mountain views
Abundant snowfall
Uncrowded weekday slopes

What People Dislike

Bike park needs investment
Can be expensive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The drive from Victoria to Mount Washington Alpine Resort typically takes around 3 hours. While maps might suggest less, factors like potential congestion around Nanaimo and speed limits mean planning for the full three hours is wise. Reddit

The most common way to reach Mount Washington Alpine Resort is by car. It's a scenic drive from various points on Vancouver Island, including the Comox Valley. Instagram

While direct public transport is limited, some shuttle services may operate during peak ski season. It's best to check local transit schedules or resort announcements for any available options. Instagram

Road conditions can vary significantly, especially in winter. Always check the latest weather and road reports before you travel, as snow and ice can make the drive challenging. Instagram

Yes, the road is accessible year-round, though summer driving conditions are generally much easier than winter. The drive offers beautiful scenery as you ascend. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Lift ticket prices vary depending on the season, day of the week, and age group. It's recommended to check the official Mount Washington Alpine Resort website for the most current pricing and to book in advance, especially during peak times. Reddit

While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended, particularly during busy periods like holidays and weekends, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Instagram

Yes, Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers various ticket options, including full-day passes, half-day passes, and multi-day passes for skiing and snowboarding. Summer activities like ziplining may have separate tickets. Reddit

Operating hours differ between winter and summer seasons and can also vary by day. Night skiing is often available during the winter holidays. Always check the resort's official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation. Instagram

Generally, there is no entry fee to access the resort base area or for summer activities like hiking. However, lift tickets or specific activity passes are required for skiing, snowboarding, and ziplining. Reddit

🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience

In winter, the resort is a premier destination for downhill skiing and snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and tubing. Night skiing and riding are also popular options. Instagram+1

Summer at Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers fantastic hiking opportunities, including trails like Paradise Meadows, as well as ziplining and mountain biking in the bike park. InstagramReddit

Yes, the resort typically has several dining options, including cafes and BBQ areas, offering meals and snacks. During drought conditions, it's advisable to check if water is available or bring your own. InstagramReddit

Absolutely. Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers equipment rentals for skis, snowboards, and other winter gear, making it convenient for visitors who don't own their own. Reddit

Yes, the resort caters to all skill levels, with dedicated beginner areas and ski schools to help newcomers learn. The variety of runs ensures there's something for everyone. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Hiking trails like Paradise Meadows provide stunning natural backdrops. Don't miss the vistas from the ski runs themselves. InstagramReddit

For winter, a camera with good low-light performance and weather sealing is ideal. In summer, a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto can capture wildlife. A tripod is useful for sunsets. Instagram

During the holiday season, the resort often has festive decorations and events, including photos with Santa. The snowy landscapes themselves create a magical holiday photo setting. Instagram

Drone usage is typically regulated at ski resorts and national parks. It's essential to check the resort's specific drone policy and any applicable aviation regulations before flying. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing action shots on the slopes. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a fantastic destination for families. In winter, the tube park offers guaranteed fun for all ages, and the resort provides beginner-friendly ski and snowboard lessons. Instagram The festive holiday season often includes special events like photos with Santa, adding to the magic. Instagram

During the summer, families can enjoy easy hiking trails with stunning views, and the zipline is a thrilling activity for older children and adults. Reddit The chance to interact with wildlife, like the friendly jays at Paradise Meadows, is also a big hit with kids. Reddit Packing layers is key, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, ensuring everyone stays comfortable throughout the day.

🏂 Skiers & Snowboarders

For dedicated skiers and snowboarders, Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers a rewarding experience with its abundant snowfall and diverse terrain. Instagram+1 The resort features runs for all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging glades and bowls. Reddit Weekday visits are highly recommended to avoid crowds and maximize time on the mountain, as lines can be minimal. Reddit

Consider purchasing a season pass if you plan to visit multiple times, as it can offer significant savings. Reddit Always check the snow report before heading up to ensure the best conditions. TikTok The availability of night skiing during the holidays adds another dimension to the winter experience. Instagram

🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, especially during the summer months. The hiking trails offer access to spectacular alpine scenery, including the renowned Paradise Meadows. InstagramReddit The relatively uncrowded trails mean you can often enjoy the tranquility of nature. Reddit

Bring some bird seed to Paradise Meadows for a unique interactive experience with local wildlife. Reddit The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking and provide ample opportunities for photography. Instagram Remember to pack appropriate footwear and layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Winter Sports at Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a premier destination for winter sports on Vancouver Island. It boasts extensive terrain for both downhill skiing and snowboarding, catering to all skill levels from beginners to advanced riders. The resort is known for its abundant snowfall, often receiving more than many other coastal mountains in British Columbia. Instagram+1

Beyond the main slopes, visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing on groomed trails and the exhilarating tube park for family fun. Night skiing and riding are also available during the holiday season, offering a unique experience under the stars. Instagram Equipment rentals and lessons are readily available, making it accessible for those new to the sport. Reddit

While the resort is a fantastic winter playground, it's important to stay informed about snow conditions and weather forecasts. The resort's website provides up-to-date snow reports, helping visitors plan their trip for the best possible experience. TikTok

Summer Adventures and Hiking

When the snow melts, Mount Washington Alpine Resort transforms into a haven for summer adventurers. The resort offers a network of hiking trails that lead through alpine meadows and offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean. InstagramReddit

A highlight for many is the Paradise Meadows area, known for its stunning natural beauty and the chance to see diverse flora and fauna. Visitors have even reported that Grey Jays and Stellar Jays will land on their hands if offered bird seed, making for a memorable wildlife encounter. Reddit The resort also features a popular zipline course, providing an adrenaline-pumping way to experience the mountain from a different perspective. Reddit

For those seeking a more challenging experience, the bike park offers trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. While some reviews suggest room for expansion and investment in the bike park, it remains a fun and skill-building option for riders. Reddit Accessing these summer activities is generally straightforward, with the resort's main lodge serving as a central point for information and amenities. Reddit

Accommodations and Dining

Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers various accommodation options to suit different needs. Visitors can choose from lodges located right on the mountain, providing convenient ski-in/ski-out access during winter or immediate access to summer activities. Reddit These lodges provide a cozy base for exploring the resort and its surroundings. Instagram

When it comes to dining, the resort typically features several eateries, ranging from casual cafes to BBQ spots. These venues offer a chance to refuel after a day of outdoor activities. Reddit It's worth noting that during periods of drought, visitors might be advised to bring their own drinking water, so checking resort advisories is crucial. Instagram

For those looking for a more extensive culinary experience or a wider range of lodging choices, the nearby Comox Valley offers numerous hotels, restaurants, and amenities, serving as a convenient base for day trips to the resort. Instagram

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