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You have to ride two lifts before taking a run, so your best bet is to stay on-hill at Sunshine Mountain Lodge, near the Strawberry Express Quad. From there you get any type of terrain before others even reach your starting point. And because Sunshine is on the border, you can ski in British Columbia and Alberta in a single run.
SKI: When patrol opens Delirium Dive, go there quick. Getting into it is sketchy, but then it’s 2,000 vert of 40- to 50-degree pitches, often powdery. Note: Avy gear and ski partner required.
DRINK: Mad Trapper’s Saloon, midmountain, is the place to be. It’s a 100-year-old trapper’s cabin turned liftie bar steeped in lore. Belly up for local brews and the lowdown on where to ski tomorrow.
EAT: If you stay at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge, head to Chimney Corner Lounge and Sports Bar. A little too loungey for you? Sit at the bar to watch hockey and chat with the bartender.
SLEEP: Staying at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge is worth the money. You’ll get a good night’s sleep, a good shower, and, because it’s midmountain, first chair in the morning. Besides, it’s closer to the Saloon.