Explore Resorts of the Canadian Rockies and discover why it's the perfect destination for those seeking good times, good vibes, and plenty of snow. Whether you're shredding the slopes on skis or bikes, or simply immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes, RCR promises an unforgettable getaway in every season.
Resorts of the Canadian Rockies (RCR)
Resorts of the Canadian Rockies Inc. (RCR) is the largest private ski resort owner/operator in Canada. The company owns Nakiska Ski Resort in Alberta, Fernie Alpine Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in British Columbia, and Mont-Sainte Anne and Stoneham in Quebec.
It is obvious that RCR has incurable obsession with snow, but in addition to their ski resorts, the company also owns and operates a number of accommodation properties, golf courses, and a central reservation agency, including but not limited to Wintergreen Golf and Country Club in Bragg Creek, Trickle Creek Golf Resort and Trickle Creek Lodge in Kimberley, and The Slope Side and Lizard Creek Lodges in Fernie.
Resorts of the Canadian Rockies History
RCR, formerly owned by Lake Louise CEO Charlie Locke, faced financial challenges until Canadian businessman N. Murray Edwards, stepped in as a crucial ally in 2001. Edwards, born December 10, 1959, is a distinguished alumnus of the University of Saskatchewan and remains the majority owner of RCR. Known for his strategic and community-driven approach, Edwards has played pivotal roles in other major ventures, including Canadian Natural Resources Ltd and Magellan Aerospace Corporation, consistently shaping business and recreational landscapes in Canada. A former hockey referee during high school, Edwards currently resides in Saint Moritz, Switzerland.
RCR previously operated Alberta's Fortress Mountain Resort, Lake Louise Mountain Resort, and Wintergreen Ski Area.
RCR RESORTS: KICKING HORSE
Above the town of Golden, British Columbia, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (KHMR) emerges as a premier skiing destination in Canada. Spanning over 3,486 acres of skiable terrain, KHMR offers an exhilarating experience with a vertical drop of 1,315 meters (4,314 ft), ranking as the fourth-largest among North American ski resorts. Situated in the Purcell Mountains, overlooking the Rocky Mountain Trench, Kicking Horse is aptly named after the nearby Kicking Horse River and Kicking Horse Pass.
Dubbed "The Champagne Powder Capital of Canada," the Kicking Horse features five expansive alpine bowls—Crystal Bowl, Bowl Over, Feuz Bowl, Super Bowl, and Rudi's Bowl. With 85 long steep chutes and short lift lines, the resort is a haven for skiing enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences. Adding a unique touch to the resort, Kicking Horse has a Via Ferrata and is home to Canada’s Largest Protected Grizzly Bear Habitat – Boo the Bear!
RCR RESORTS: FERNIE
Fernie Alpine Resort, situated on Lizard Range near the charming town of Fernie, British Columbia, stands as a testament to the perfect fusion of legendary skiing and authentic Rocky Mountain stories. Boasting over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, this winter paradise receives up to 37 feet of snow annually, offering an unparalleled experience for skiers and riders of all levels. With 142 named runs, 5 alpine bowls, and a vertical drop of 1,082 meters (3,550 ft), Fernie is a playground for winter enthusiasts seeking epic snow, vast mountains, and a touch of historic charm.
Fernie Alpine Resort is operational year-round and home to the Aerial Park & Zipline Adventure Centre in the summer and mountain biking.
RCR RESORTS: KIMBERLEY
Amidst the rugged Purcell Range, RCR's Kimberley Alpine Resort has evolved into a premier destination. Perched on the northeast face of North Star Hill, the resort is in Kimberley, British Columbia and features 80 runs over 1,800 acres of terrain, thoughtfully distributed with 20% dedicated to beginners, 42% to intermediates, and 38% to advanced trails. The ski-in/ski-out accommodations offer a perfect blend of convenience and comfort for an unforgettable mountain retreat.
Kimberley has the longest-lit night-skiing run in North America and the most gladed ski terrain in Canada. The town's commitment to athleticism shines through the Kimberley Conference and Athlete Training Centre, Canada's first official Para Alpine Training Centre, supporting future Olympians and leaving a proud legacy.
RCR RESORTS: NAKISKA
1988 Olympic host, Nakiska Ski Resort, has become a cornerstone of winter sports in Alberta, Canada. As a key member of RCR's family, Nakiska is Calgary's closest mountain making it an ideal day-trip destination. Due to how the resort is laid out and it's memorable features, it is easily the best beginner ski resort near Calgary. It offers superb beginner and intermediate terrain and provides additional winter resort activities such as tubing and snowshoeing.
Due to leased land subject to seasonal closures mandated by Alberta government restrictions, the resort is closed in the summer. However, there are an abundance of hikes near Nakiska such as Troll Falls and the Green Monster hike.
Powder Highway Resorts
Renowned within the RCR portfolio, Fernie and Kicking Horse, nestled in the southeast corner of British Columbia along the famed "Powder Highway," stand out as iconic destinations. These two resorts consistently secure positions among the top 10 Canadian resorts, captivating the hearts of powder enthusiasts. With bountiful annual snowfalls and expansive big mountain terrain, Fernie and Kicking Horse establish themselves as ultimate playgrounds for those seeking an exhilarating skiing experience.
Summer sightseeing lifts operate at both resorts, which also offer fantastic downhill Mountain Biking and mountain top dining throughout the summer season.
RCR East Coast Ski Resorts
Beyond the majestic Canadian Rockies, Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham Mountain Resort in Quebec are also part of the RCR family. Mont-Sainte-Anne boasts an extensive season from November to May, catering to both beginners and seasoned experts alike. Beyond skiing, this multisport resort offers a plethora of winter activities including night skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and thrilling climbing tours through icy canyons.
While Stoneham's highest point reaches just 593 meters, it stands as a snow-sure ski destination nestled in the heart of Quebec. Despite its modest elevation, abundant natural snowfall graces the slopes, supplemented by advanced artificial snowmaking technology. With 30 diverse runs spread across four mountains, Stoneham promises an unforgettable skiing experience for all.
RCR RESORTS MISSION
RCR is dedicated to providing guests with an unmatched vacation and recreational experience. Over the past five years, the resorts and surrounding towns have grown into distinctive destinations, attracting skiers and snowboarders globally. The enduring warmth and friendliness of RCR resorts remain constant, offering a haven for reconnection with family, friends, and nature. RCR is committed to superb and sustainable recreational use, coupled with cutting-edge ecological stewardship. This commitment extends to protecting and preserving the beautiful mountain environment in which RCR operates, emphasizing the privilege to live, work, and play in harmony with nature.
RCR's Partnership with Epic Pass
The Epic Pass was created in 2008, offering unlimited access to five resorts at half the price of a single-resort pass. Fast forward to today, and the Epic Pass opens the doors to a whopping 41 resorts worldwide, including a fantastic alliance with Resorts of the Canadian Rockies.
Starting from the 2018-19 season, the Epic Pass delivers seven days (with no blackout dates) at six Canadian resorts, with the Epic 7-Day Pass and Epic 4-Day Pass offering flexibility and unbeatable value.
Why is this such a game-changer? Well, it's not just about hitting the slopes. The Epic Pass is a ticket to a winter wonderland with Direct-to-lift access, saving you from ticket office hassles. Holders also enjoy a 50% discount on single-day lift tickets, giving you more mountain for your money.
Grade 2 Fun Pass
The Grade 2 $20.00 Fun Pass through Go Ski Alberta allows unlimited access to all four western Canadian RCR resorts. Child must be enrolled in a Canadian school and proof of age/enrollment in grade 2 required at time of pass pick up.
