The SameSun Ski Lodge - Big White is a unique hostel as it has great ski-in/ski-out access to the extensive Big White Ski Resort yet still offers all the affordability and facilities you'd expect to find in a typical backpackers' hostel. Operating during the ski season (November to April), the location is great at only two minutes' walk from the heart of the on-mountain village centre and the resort's many retail shops, ski rentals, supermarket, liquor store, and popular night spots Snowshoe Sam's and Raakels.
Eight-bed, four-bed, private, kitchenette, and deluxe rooms are available and the loungy TV and entertainment area is a good social point to watch ice hockey and meet your new ride buddies for next morning's first powder runs. The kitchen and bathrooms are clean, thanks to staff who stay free in exchange for part-time housekeeping. The communal hot tub is a definite bonus!
The free, cook-your-own Canadian pancake breakfast every morning is very much appreciated for the first few days until you eventually crave something a bit more substantial. Internet facilities appear on the pricey side until compared with other on-mountain options. There are laundry facilities, lockers in the dorms (bring your own lock!), and basic linen/towels available with deposit.
The Big White SameSun offers a variety of services to backpackers and the considerable number of mountain staff who stay permanently or until they find accommodation. Daily shuttle services are available from the Kelowna SameSun Backpacker Lodge and affordable group activities are run weekly (think pumpkin carving for Halloween, bonfires, discounted sports tickets). In the end, if you are here to ride, the hostel is basic but great for a social and amazingly cheap on-mountain stay.
-- Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
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