Toronto Budget Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter in Canada is synonymous with world class skiing and snowboarding. And with ample slopes and hostels in Canada to be found right across the country, exploring the best of the provinces possible, even on a budget. Chase Away the Winter Blues with Cheap Skiing and Snowboarding in Canada.  Here's three Tips on two Destinations; Whistler and Toronto.

Skiing in Whistler, British Columbia

If you’re looking for picture-perfect snow set within a celeb-status village, this world famous resort town is the place to head. Ideal for the serious skier or snowboarder, Whistler-Blackcomb offers the best in alpine skiing and is soon to be the primary host of skiing events at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

Glamorous Whistler may be one of the more exclusive skiing destinations in Canada, but the top quality slopes can still be within reach of the smart budget traveler with these tips on keeping down the cost. 

1. Bring your own equipment as rental prices can be high.
2. Go off peak and look for deals during Easter and spring when the weather is slightly warmer.
3. Find budget accommodation in Whistler hostels.

Where to Stay:

The Villas is an excellent alternative for budget travelers; mere minutes from the slopes in the Upper Village on Blackcomb Mountain, it offers private luxury townhouses at an affordable price. Added budget-friendly benefits include a free shuttle to the village and ski lifts, plus plenty of free storage for travelers bringing their own equipment.

How to Get There:

If you are headed to or from Vancouver and are looking for affordable transport with a difference, take the ‘Sea-to-Sky train’ (approximately six hours) which promises breathtaking landscapes from the oceanfront to sublime canyons and the steep wooded Coast Mountains.

Skiing in Toronto, Ontario

Although often overshadowed by the Rockies and Whistler, Toronto can offer a great alternative for budget skiing and snowboarding as passes are significantly cheaper. With two convenient locations - Earl Bales Ski and Snowboard Centre, and Centennial Park Ski and Snowboard Centre - these slopes are particularly well suited to beginners.

Just a bus ride away from the city center, you can save money and maximize your entertainment at both locations with these tips:

1. Toronto Winter City “Double up Days” run from 30 January to 12 February; when you purchase a snow pass, your time is automatically doubled - which means you can ski for free next time!
2. This great value deal also runs from 16 to 20 March as March Break Double Up Days, so try to coincide your Easter ski trip with these dates to save even more…
3. Stay at one of the excellent range of Toronto hostels in the nearby city. 

Where to Stay:

Travelers are spoilt for choice when it comes to budget accommodation in Toronto: there are hostels within easy walking distance of the many attractions (including shopping, nightclubs, restaurants and the theater district) as well as the public transport network (TTC) which operates 24 hours.

What to Do:

Cosmopolitan Toronto is packed with entertainment, but skiers and snowboarders will find the 14-day WinterCity Festival a particular highlight. A citywide celebration, it begins at the end of January each year. After a hard day on the slopes, check out the ice sculptures, art exhibits, food stalls and free indoor and outdoor entertainment.