Getting Hyped to Ride Sun Peaks’ Newest Chairlift

This winter, we’re thrilled to open the West Bowl Express chairlift, the latest addition to the Sun Peaks experience. The West Bowl Express promises quicker access to some of the mountain’s most stunning terrain, allowing skiers and snowboarders to reach untouched areas with ease. More than just a convenient lift, it opens up new terrain, making this area a fresh playground for riders looking to enjoy Sun Peaks in a whole new way.

The West Bowl Express: Location and Access

Navigating Sun Peaks to Find the West Bowl Express

The West Bowl Express is strategically placed to offer easy access to the West Bowl area, located in a scenic, less-traveled section of the resort. If you’re starting from the main village, reaching it is straightforward. You can begin by heading up the Sunburst Express chairlift and then the Crystal lift to reach the Top of the World, then take a few connector trails to make your way over to the West Bowl. You’ll find the new chair conveniently marked on the Sun Peaks trail map, helping you navigate seamlessly through the area.

Enhanced Access to Untouched Terrain

For years, the West Bowl area has been a hidden gem for those willing to make the hike, featuring wide-open terrain, tree runs, and fresh powder. But the West Bowl Express now makes the area accessible to all. This addition has expanded our terrain, allowing guests to explore fresh powder fields, groomed trails, and scenic glades that were once out of reach. With many blue trails right off the lift and advanced terrain nearby, it’s an inviting spot for skiers and snowboarders to experience the mountain in a new way.

What to Expect from the New Terrain

Fresh Powder and Wide-Open Spaces

The West Bowl Express opens up a breathtaking section of Sun Peaks, where the terrain is ideal for those who love powder, glades, and sweeping alpine views. This lift, a high-speed quad chair, takes riders up to one of the highest elevation points on the mountain, offering a unique vantage point across the surrounding peaks and valleys. The new terrain provides a combination of gentle, rolling blue runs and more challenging areas through enhanced access to Gil's off-piste zone, making it ideal for those seeking variety and challenge.

Who Will Love This Lift?

The West Bowl Express offers something for everyone, though it’s especially great for intermediate riders looking to venture further across the mountain. Advanced skiers can also enjoy easy access to Gil’s, a popular off-piste area with steeper descents and thrilling lines. If you’re a skier who loves the runs off Sundance Express, you’ll find similar terrain here with fewer people around, making it a quiet, rewarding experience. Beginners are also welcome in this area, thanks to the variety of groomed blue runs, making it a fantastic destination for families and groups with mixed abilities.

How the New Chairlift Elevates the Sun Peaks Experience

No More Hiking

One of the most exciting benefits of the West Bowl Express is that it removes the need to hike to this part of the mountain. Previously, skiers and snowboarders had to traverse or hike to get into West Bowl, making it less accessible, especially on powder days. Now, this lift lets you reach the area with ease, meaning more time enjoying the snow and less time trekking up a slope. This streamlined access brings a whole new level of convenience to the Sun Peaks experience.

Smoother Flow and Fewer Crowds

The addition of this new lift also helps balance skier traffic across the resort. With more terrain open and accessible, skiers can spread out, which helps maintain Sun Peaks’ famous low-crowd experience. During peak times, like Christmas and New Year’s, the lift will help alleviate lines and offer guests the chance to explore more of the mountain, making it easier for everyone to enjoy more runs with minimal wait times.

How to Plan Your Day Around the West Bowl Express

Ideal Routes for an Epic Day on the Slopes

The West Bowl Express is a fantastic starting point or midday destination on the mountain. Start your day in the village and warm up on a few runs off the Sundance Express before making your way to the West Bowl. Once there, explore the wide variety of blue runs, or take on some of the more advanced options. For those looking to end their day in the bowl, you’ll find it’s an ideal place to catch the last bit of sunlight, with spectacular views over the surrounding peaks.

Insider Tips

To make the most of your time at the West Bowl Express, head there early in the day to catch the fresh powder. Midweek, especially, tends to offer quieter slopes, allowing you to enjoy untouched snow for longer. If you love a deal, check out Sun Peaks’ Early Winter Special, offering discounted lift tickets, accommodations, and more, giving you time to explore the new lift at an affordable rate. And if you’re visiting during a busy holiday period, take advantage of Sun Peaks’ other lifts early in the morning, then move to the West Bowl as the day progresses. It’s a great spot to escape the main crowds and make the most of the mountain.

The West Bowl Express is more than just a lift—it’s a gateway to some of Sun Peaks’ most exciting terrain. With easy access to a mix of blue and advanced trails, and scenic mountain views, this chairlift expands the skiable area and adds a new dimension to your experience at Sun Peaks. Whether you’re looking for fresh tracks, breathtaking views, or a quiet, crowd-free run, the West Bowl Express delivers. So, grab your skis or board, check out the Sun Peaks trail map, and get ready to make the most of this winter’s newest adventure.

West Bowl FAQs

Q: What type of terrain does the West Bowl Express serve?

A: The West Bowl Express provides access to intermediate and advanced terrain, with a mix of groomed blue runs, powder fields, and glades.

Q: How do I access the new chairlift from the main village?

A: You can reach the West Bowl Express by taking the Burfield or Crystal lifts, followed by a few connector trails to the bowl.

Q: What is the best time to ride the West Bowl Express for fresh snow?

A: Early morning, particularly on weekdays, is ideal for catching untouched powder and enjoying quieter slopes.

Q: Will the new chairlift reduce lift lines at other popular Sun Peaks lifts?

A: Yes! The West Bowl Express helps spread skiers across the mountain, reducing lines and enhancing the low-crowd experience that Sun Peaks is known for.