How to get from
Kelowna Airport (YLW) to Big White Ski Resort
Adults
Age 13+Children
Age 0-12Route details
Distance:
61 km / 38 miles
Driving Time:
1hr
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
Return Route:
People often ask
The drive from YLW to Big White is usually 50–60 minutes, depending on road and weather conditions.
Yes. Shuttle services run regularly during the ski season, offering direct transportation from the arrivals area at YLW to accommodations in Big White.
Yes. The road to Big White climbs into alpine conditions, and winter tires are required from fall to spring. Conditions can change quickly, so proper traction is essential.
All trips booked with Ridebooker during the winter months are equipped with winter tires.
It’s generally well-maintained, but snowfall, compact snow, and fog are common. Professional shuttle drivers are experienced with these conditions if you’d prefer not to drive.
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is the closest airport to Big White Ski Resort, located just under an hour from the mountain. It’s the main gateway for travellers heading to the resort, offering easy access and frequent winter flight schedules—especially from major Western Canadian cities.
YLW is served by Air Canada, WestJet, Porter, Flair, Alaska Airlines, Pacific Coastal, and Central Mountain Air. Between them, the airport offers direct flights to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Victoria, and several smaller BC destinations, with seasonal routes to places like Los Angeles and popular sun destinations in Mexico. This range of airlines and routes makes Kelowna one of the most convenient entry points for skiers and snowboarders visiting Big White.
You don’t need a car to visit Big White Ski Resort. Most travellers fly into Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and take a shuttle or private transfer straight to the mountain, which is only about 55 minutes away. Once you’re at the resort, the village is pedestrian-friendly, and most accommodation is either ski-in/ski-out or just a short walk from the lifts, restaurants, and shops.
If you plan to stay on the mountain for your whole trip, a vehicle often ends up parked and unused.
About travelling from Kelowna Airport (YLW) to Big White Ski Resort, BC
Big White is known for two things: consistent, dry Okanagan snow and a true ski-in/ski-out village that makes everything easy. The resort sits about an hour from Kelowna and is one of the largest in British Columbia, with a mix of wide groomers, gladed tree runs, and some more challenging terrain off the Cliff and Gem Lake areas. It’s a great mountain for families and friends that want the full package Ski holiday.
The village is compact and very walkable, with most accommodation sitting directly on the slopes. You’ll find pubs, cafés, and après spots scattered throughout. Snowshoe Sam’s is the classic loud and lively après bar. The BullWheel does craft beer and hearty plates with a laid-back vibe, and Black Diamond Bar & Grill is a local favourite for burgers and cocktails. If you’re after coffee or breakfast before heading up the mountain, Bean Scene and Clocktower Coffee Co. are your morning stops.
In summer, the focus shifts to hiking and downhill mountain biking, with high-alpine trails and ridge-line views across the Okanagan Valley. It’s quieter than in winter, but still a solid spot for those who prefer nature and mountain time over crowds.
If you’re flying into Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Ridebooker can take care of your transfer up the mountain. Whether you’re after a shared shuttle, private car, or something larger for a group, our local partners keep the trip straightforward. The drive takes about an hour and climbs steadily into the mountains. By the time you arrive, you’ll be ready to ski straight out your front door, settle into the village, and enjoy that famous Okanagan snow.