6 Reasons Why RED Mountain Should Be on the Shortlist for Ski & Snowboard Families
RED’s got everything you need for the ultimate ski trip
Seattle families, we know you love your local slopes – or hey – even that drive north up to Whistler. But what if we told you there’s a magical place just across the Canadian border that’ll make you forget all about your usual go-to mountains? Welcome to RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, British Columbia. It’s closer than you think, and trust us, it’s worth the trip. Here are five reasons why RED should top your winter bucket list this winter:
1. It’s Really Not That Far. We Did The Math.
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room—driving to the interior British Columbia may sound like a trek, but hear us out: RED Mountain is just 8 miles from the US/Canada border directly north of Spokane – only about a 6-hour drive from Seattle. That’s a few good playlists, a pit stop for coffee in Spokane, and maybe a game of “I Spy” with the kids. Plus, the 24-hour border crossing is a breeze with minimal to no wait times (don’t get us started on the Vancouver border—oof!).
Before you know it, you’ll be rolling into Rossland, a charming little town that feels like a snow globe come to life. Not to mention, when you’re able to cruise through the border on the way to RED – while also cruising through non-existent lift lines on the hill (see #3 below), the time you’re saving on this trip is priceless.
2. Incredible Terrain
Got a family of shredders with varying skill levels? RED’s got you covered. Our volcanic-style peaks with 360-degree descents allow families of varying abilities to easily ride together and regroup at the same chair at the end of countless runs. From bunny hills to steep chutes, there’s something for everyone. The beginner-friendly areas are perfect for kids finding their ski legs, while the black diamonds (51% advanced & expert terrain) will keep adrenaline junkies grinning ear to ear. And if you’re somewhere in between, the intermediate runs are long, scenic, and downright dreamy (did you know our longest run is over 4 miles long?).
But don’t take our word for it. Powder Magazine just ranked RED the 4th Best Tree Skiing Mountain in all of North America, and Conde Nast Traveler and Vogue both placed RED in the Top 5 Ski Resorts in Canada.
Throw in a top-notch ski school and your kids might come back better than you (just don’t let it bruise your ego).
3. No Crowds and a Mellow Vibe
If you’ve ever stood in a lift line so long that you started questioning your life choices, you’ll appreciate this: RED Mountain is delightfully uncrowded. So say goodbye to packed slopes and endless lift lines – you’ll be zipping down runs while your Seattle-based friends are still inching toward the lift at Stevens Pass. For real. (And sorry, friends.)
RED Mountain boasts the top 10 most skiable acres in North America and ranks #1 out of those resorts for most acres per skier. The unique topography spreads skiers out naturally, so you (and your kids!) can focus on carving turns instead of dodging people. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shredder, you’ll appreciate the laid-back vibe and stress-free environment.
Bonus: Fewer people mean more powder stashes for you and the crew to discover.
4. Pay-Per-Run Cat Skiing and Backcountry-Style Cabin Nights? Yes!
Think cat skiing is only for the big spenders? Not at RED! For just $20 a ride (or $15 if you snag a 6-pack), you can hitch a ride on the Mt. Kirkup Cat to access over 2,000 vertical feet of non-lift-accessed terrain, ripe for shredding. Guest pickup is at the top of Grey Mountain, and your descent ends conveniently at the bottom of the Grey Chair—so you can do it all over again. It’s the perfect way to inject some backcountry vibes into your day without committing to a full-day splurge. Rugged adventure? Check. Affordable? Double check.
Experience backcountry vibes without the backcountry effort at The Constella: A Cabin Collective. Tucked away on Granite Mountain, these six cozy cabins offer a private alpine escape—no advanced ski skills needed! Accessed via groomed runs, The Constella pairs solitude with convenience. After skiing in, join fellow guests at the shared Tap House for a hosted dinner, crackling fire, and good times that might involve board games or snowstorm stories. Afterward, retreat to your cabin for a night under the stars. In the morning, fuel up on a light breakfast and coffee, then claim those fresh tracks. It’s the perfect mix of rustic charm and modern comfort, all within RED’s ski boundaries!
5. A Real Ski Town with a Thriving Community
Forget the corporate feel of many resorts. Rossland is an authentic ski town where you can truly relax. Stroll through boutique shops, savor meals at local restaurants, and enjoy the free ski bus connecting the mountain and town seven days a week. It’s a place where kids can roam the slopes safely, just like when you used to play outside until dark. The whole family will love the welcoming, close-knit community vibe. It’s what a ski trip should be, right?
6. Variety of Slopeside Lodging Options
RED Mountain offers something for every family or shred posse. Need space? Choose a multi-bedroom condo with a private hot tub & full kitchen. Traveling in a smaller pack? Studio and one-bedroom units with kitchens right at the base are there for ya too. Looking for a high-end experience? Stay at The Josie Hotel, a 4-star boutique hotel with top-notch service and a fantastic restaurant. Budget-conscious? Check out the Nowhere Special Hostel. Built in 2018, it’s modern, clean, and family-friendly—far from the party hostel stereotype. And yes, all of these options are walkable to the chairlift. Hard to beat. You can explore all the base area lodging options here.
7. BONUS: Affordable luxury more than ever.
Okay, we couldn’t not mention this. Ski trips can drain the wallet, but RED Mountain offers incredible value. Lift tickets, lodging, and dining are refreshingly affordable compared to big-name resorts. You’ll feel like you’re living the high life without the high prices. Plus, there’s just something luxurious about avoiding the chaos of crowded slopes and overpriced everything.
Extra bonus? On top of discounted lift tickets when you purchase in advance (RED is on the Ikon Pass too!), don’t forget the USD/CAD exchange rate is bigger than ever right now, giving you a huge discount on everything and anything Canadian.
