Visitors Guide
Welcome to Cypress Mountain
Cypress Mountain is your go-to mountain for skiing and snowboarding just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver. We're not just bragging when we say we're the biggest resort around, nestled in the legendary North Shore Mountains. With the most vertical drop, expansive terrain, and top-notch snow conditions, we're all about delivering the ultimate winter playground.
Beyond the downhill thrills, we've got cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and sliding to keep the winter vibes strong for everyone.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, this guide has your back. We get it – planning a ski trip involves some logistics, but we're here to make it as smooth as freshly groomed powder.
Let's dive into the essentials of your Cypress Mountain adventure!
Trip Planning
We traditionally open for the winter season in mid-November and the amount of ski terrain open varies each year depending on weather conditions. Stay tuned to our social media channels and Mountain Report page for real-time updates leading up to the season.
Winter
Embrace the winter magic at Cypress Mountain, where 622cm of annual snowfall guarantees endless opportunities to carve through pristine powder. With over 600 skiable acres, our terrain offers 61 runs catering to all skill levels, from beginners to thrill-seekers.
While peak times align with the holidays and weekends in January and February, consider quieter visits for a more serene experience. Spring is also a fantastic time to explore Cypress Mountain, with most terrain open and milder temperatures setting the stage for outdoor après activities on our heated patio. Don't miss hallmark events like Slush Cup and Brewski, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
Summer
Experience summer at Cypress Mountain with our Eagle Coaster, soaring high from June to September. Launching from the top of the Eagle Express Quad Chair on Black Mountain, this breathtaking ride spans 1700 meters with a vertical drop of 279 meters. Wind through forested vistas and thrilling twists, controlling your own speed for a rush of up to 40 km per hour.
The Eagle Coaster is a blast for all ages and abilities, including little ones aged 3 and above riding with an adult. While you're here, don't miss a Scenic Ride up Sky Chair and our outdoor axe throwing!
During your summer visit, expect an average temperature of 22°C in Vancouver. Dress comfortably, pack sunscreen, and stay hydrated for a day of adventure.
Trip Planning
Checklist
Winter
Save up to 20% by booking lift tickets, rentals, and Nordic activities online in advance. These popular options can sell out on busy days, so plan ahead. For multi-day visits, consider a Sky Card, offering the best savings on Lift and Trail Tickets for both Downhill and Nordic.
If you're exploring the Nordic area, pre-book your trail, tubing, sliding, or snowshoeing tickets online to enjoy advance savings.
Summer
For a thrilling ride on the Eagle Coaster during the summer, secure your ticket online in advance due to high demand. Scenic Rides are also available and can be pre-booked or purchased on the mountain.
Downhill
No need for oversized baggage fees; our on-mountain rental fleet has you covered. Choose from day rentals or high-performance options for the adventurous. Dedicated to ensuring comfort and a perfect fit, our rental service caters to skiers, snowboarders, and cross-country enthusiasts.
For Season Pass or Sky Card holders, enjoy Seasonal Rentals for both Nordic and Downhill. Yours for the entire season, these rentals can even be taken home.
With day, performance, and seasonal options, you'll be prepared for any conditions.
Cross Country Skiing
Daily and seasonal rentals are available in our Nordic area for both Classic and Skate skiing, catering to all ages.
Downhill
Experience the ultimate lesson with a Private Lesson, offering one-on-one instruction with our top pros. For tots, the Skooters' Kids Camp is a fun introduction to skiing. Keep your kids going all day and improving technique with our Raven Rider Camps, or opt for the whole mountain experience with Sky Rider Camps for teens. Adults and Youth can become Skiers or Snowboarders in one weekend with our Learn to Ski and Ride Camps.
Don't miss our Adult Lesson Program, including a Oneniter Season Pass plus 4 evening lessons. Group Lessons for children, youth, and adults are perfect for discovering or fine-tuning skills.
Cross Country
Explore something different at Cypress Mountain, boasting one of North America's largest Cross Country areas with 19km of track-set trails. Group and private lessons are available for all abilities.
What to Pack
Winter
When exploring the North Shore Mountains, be ready for changing conditions. Pack waterproof gloves, jacket, and pants, along with warm layers like long underwear and socks. Solid footwear, a hat, and a helmet (available for rent or purchase) are essential. Don't forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and extra socks for rental boots.
No gear? No worries. Our Rentals department has everything from beginner to advanced skis, boards, clothing, and helmets.
Summer
Summer weather on Cypress Mountain can change quickly. Dress in layers for temperature variations from the base to the mountaintop. Protect yourself from UV rays with sunglasses and sunscreen, especially at higher altitudes.
Treat yourself to new gear at our on-mountain retail store, Big Bear Sports, located on the first floor of Cypress Creek Lodge.
Arriving at Cypress
Ticket Pick Up
Before hitting the slopes, grab your Lift Tickets or Sky Card at the nearest pick-up box.
Find them near the ticket windows in the Downhill area or by Guest Services in the Nordic Area. Scan the QR code from your confirmation email at the box, and it will print your Ticket or Sky Card with pre-loaded lift tickets. Keep your card in a separate pocket of your ski coat; it's reusable year after year, so hold onto it!
On the Slopes
Dining
We have a wide range of indoor and outdoor dining options designed to satisfy every palate.
Trail Maps & Stats
Everything you need to know about the terrain at Cypress Mountain.
Events
Check our events calendar for all things happening during our winter or summer operations.
Know Before You Go
RFID, or Radio Frequency Identification, replaces single-use tickets. Guests receive a card with an embedded RFID chip. Placed in a pocket, scanners at the lift bottom read the RFID chip, opening the gate. These cards are reusable season after season.
Always check weather conditions and hours of operation prior to visiting the mountain by calling Guest Services at 855 363 2823 or checking our Mountain Report page.
Checking your fuel levels before heading up to the mountain is always a great idea! The nearest gas station located on exit west of the Cypress Bowl Road exit. The return drive to the ski area is 30km from the highway.
Keyless lockers are available on the first floor of Cypress Creek Lodge. It is also a good idea to store a separate car key in another location just in case you misplace the original.
Labeling gear with your name helps identify and differentiate it from similar items. While security is present, we're not responsible for lost or stolen equipment. Ensure your gear's safety by using a ski or snowboard lock, available for purchase at the Retail Store.
Drinking plenty of water is important, even when it is cold out. It is easy to get dehydrated on the mountain. Water fountains are available throughout the mountain, as well as bottled water from one of our many Cafes/Restaurants.
Weekends and Holidays are our busiest time. We recommend arriving with 1 hour to spare, to provide adequate time to park and prepare for your day on the mountain.