MARMOT BASIN

Marmot Basin has some great stats under its belt. The resort starts off with the highest base elevation of all the Canadian ski resorts (at over 1700m), meaning the snowfall is light and dry, and the Alberta powder sticks around a little longer. The ski area is both above and below the treeline offering a superb variety of skiing. Marmot Basin caters for beginners and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, with over 60% off the terrain tailored to their ability level, but also boasts over 40% advanced / expert terrain. We like those stats!

Being a smaller resort, only 7 lifts provide access to roughly 1675 acres of terrain, however, lift lines are non-existent and slopes are uncrowded. Above the treeline, you can explore wide open alpine bowls and chutes, and the option of hiking up to the top of Marmot Peak itself and making some memorable fresh turns back down to the resort. Newly opened double black diamond runs, like Tres Hombres, are highly recommended for the expert skiers. The gladed runs under the Outer Limits and Paradise Quad provide those tree runs skiers are yearning for, and waiting in line (with the rest of the powderhounds) for the Knob Chair to open is definitely worth the powdered descent that follows. For those seeking long cruiser runs, skiers right off the Eagle Express Quad will satisfy the corduroy fiend in all of us.

For first timers, there is a good magic carpet area just below the day lodge, and the beginner skiing is quite graduated allowing for steeping stones to more difficult runs. Marmot Basin is great for the whole family, especially those with varying skiing abilities.

Marmot Basin is very family-friendly, and a small compact base area provides easy access to all the resort facilities. The resort has three main lodges, one at the base and two mid-mountain, providing all necessary amenities, from apres to cafes, and retail shops. Everything is quite affordable as well, which is a major drawcard for Marmot Basin.

The ski school is well organised and lessons are conducted by highly qualified instructors with plenty of years experience. Marmot's Kids Camp has great half and full-day group lessons options for the smaller skiiers of all ability levels and up to 12 years. For the teeny 4 -5 year olds, Marmot Mites is a good value 50 minute lesson, or you can extend it to a full day in the Tiny Tracks Program, a perfect combination of childcare and on-hill instruction. 2 hour morning and afternoon lessons are available for adults 13 years and over.

The is no on-mountain accommodation at Marmot Basin, which can be off-puting for those wanting ski-in/ski-out or ease of access. However, there are some great accommodation options in the town of Jasper, including luxury mountain-style lodging and rustic cabins, and value hotels for those who are a little more independant or don't require all the frills of a major ski resort. Most lodging is within the main town area, close to facilities, restaurants, and retail shops. There is a daily shuttle service between Jasper hotels and Marmot Basin, and it's only a 20 minute ride. 

Marmot Basin has no on-mountain accommodation, so staying in the nearby town of Jasper is your best option. There is a great range of options to suit all budgets, from luxury mountain-style lodging and rustic cabins, to hotels and motels. Most lodging is withing the main town area, and walking distance to local restaurant and bars, retail shops, and activities. 

Jasper is a great laid back town, the gateway to the Jasper National Park, and an interesting part of Alberta to explore on down days. One popular activity are the ice walks through Maligne Canyon; wander the frozen rapids and waterfalls and take in the incredible surrounding mountains and valleys. Dog sled tours are also popular, and can be booked directly with the tour operators at the Visitor Centre. For the kids (and kids at heart), Jasper also has fun ice-skating in town, museums, and an aquatic centre.

Shoe-shoeing and cross-country skiing is a good way to see the Jasper National Park, and possibly spot some wildlife along the way!

Marmot Basin is quite off-the-beaten-track, with the closest city, Edmonton almost 370kms awat (Calgary is 400km). However, daily airport shuttles operated from Edmonton International Airport so it's quite easy to get to Jasper. There are also transfers available from Banff, making it easier to tack Marmot Basin onto a multi-resort ski holiday.

A car is highly recommended for some extra flexiblity and the option of visiting other resorts in Alberta. Marmot Basin would make a wonderful addition to a Canadian ski road trip. The journey from Banff to Jasper is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with the incredible Ice Fields Parkway showcasing stunning glaciers, towering rocky mountains, snowscapes, and plenty of wildlife. It has to be one of the most spectacular drives in Canada. The only downfall is that the road can close for avalanche control at times, which requires a long, boring detour around the mountain range (near Edmonton) to get to Jasper. Although it's not common, it did happen to Scout twice in one trip!

If hiring a car familiarity with winter driving and appropriate vehicle with 4WD or at least snow tyres and chain is highly recommended. 

Marmot Basin has a long season, running from mid-November all the way through to May. The coldest month is January, averaging -7 degrees. celcius. The resort receives relatively low annual snowfall, roughly 4 metres, however it's very dry and light Alberta powder, and the colder temperatures keeps the snow sticking around for longer. 

Winter is 'off-season' in Jasper, so accommodation, dining, and activities are more affordable.