Cypress Mountain best local ski and snowboarding destination, poll finds

If winter sports are your thing, you've likely taken advantage of the piste that we're lucky enough to have right on our doorstep.

But while all the local ski hills are frequented by guests each year, for enthusiasts there's always the debate: which one is the best?

For readers polled in an online survey this year, the standout winner is Cypress Mountain Resort, with nearly 31 per cent voting it the best North Shore destination for skiing and snowboarding. Cypress is the largest of the three, with the most runs and most snow making equipment. Especially for experienced skiers and riders, the variety of intermediate and advanced terrain makes it an attractive option.

It should be said that there are no bad options here, with more than 12 per cent of readers voting that there is no best slope, and all are likable for different reasons.

For example, Mt. Seymour – which was the favourite slope of nearly seven per cent of readers – boasts stunning views from its rolling, forested terrain. The North Vancouver destination was recently ranked No. 4 on a list of photogenic winter wonderlands worldwide. It also has the most affordable lift tickets around.

And Grouse Mountain – with more than seven per cent of the vote – has its advantages as well. The trip to Grouse is the shortest by far, and a unique tram ride up the side of the mountain takes you to a peak with some of the most breathtaking views of Metro Vancouver. An outdoor skating rink and sleigh rides also provide more options when the skis and boards are on the racks.

Also in the survey, more than a third (36 per cent) of readers said they didn't ski or snowboard. Another six per cent voted that they weren't sure which destination was best, because they hadn't been to them all.