Canada’s Ski Secret: The hidden gem resorts for this snow season

To mark the beginning of the 2025/2026 ski season, Jackpot City Casino has defrosted the numbers from last year's highly successful investigation to reveal which resort is Canada’s hidden gem. Canada is famous for its winter sports, and as ski resorts nationwide gear up for the new season, enthusiasts are searching for the ideal destination to hit the slopes.

Skiing first arrived in Canada around 1,000 AD, and since then the country has become a top-tier getaway celebrated for its pristine snow, beautiful scenery, and variety of terrain. Today, an estimated 2.5 million Canadians ski or snowboard, so it’s no wonder the nation is home to countless resorts of all sizes, offering runs suited to every skill level.

From mid-November to late April, when the resorts open their doors, it’s not only locals eager to strap on their skis. Each year, roughly 19 million tourists travel to Canada to enjoy its world-renowned slopes. Still, many visitors prefer to avoid the crowds, seeking out quieter spots where only a handful of skiers have touched the fresh powder.

So, which Canadian town is home to these secret slopes?

Experts at the online casino looked at 173 ski resorts across Canada, comparing their visitor ratings and number of reviews on Google to find where the least amount of people are visiting but reviewing them highly.

Mount Maichen in Watson Lake, Yukon has been named Canada’s top hidden-gem resort for 2025, continuing its winning streak from last year’s research, earning an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars based on nine reviews. With runs suited to all skill levels, stunning scenery, and snow that remains dry and powdery all season long, it’s a wonder this tranquil slope hasn’t gained wider recognition.

Menihek Nordic Ski Club in Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador, comes in a close second, also with 4.9 stars out of 5 with 16 reviews. Surrounded by birch and spruce forests and offering evening skiing, the resort is a favourite among cross-country skiers and snowshoers.

Ranking in third among Canada’s top hidden-gem resorts is Thunderhill Ski Area in Swan River Valley, Manitoba, which holds a 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 31 Google reviews. Nestled between the Duck Mountains and the Porcupine Provincial Forest, the resort features more than 24 well-groomed runs, 2.2km of cross-country trails, and inviting chalets perfect for warming up after a full day on the slopes.

Nearly every province included in the analysis appeared at least once among the top 10 hidden gems; however, British Columbia, one of Canada’s largest and most renowned skiing regions, secured two spots. Both of its featured resorts hold ratings of 4.8 out of 5 and offer extensive options for alpine skiing, cross-country routes, and snowboarding.

Of the 173 resorts analyzed, Marble Mountain in Steady Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador, ranked last on the hidden gem list, largely because of its substantial 36,671 reviews. Despite its strong 4.4 star rating, the resort is far from under the radar. With more than 40 runs, a snow school, and the highest vertical drop in Atlantic Canada, it’s easy to see why winter sports enthusiasts flock there.

Whatever the type of skiing holiday you’re looking for, there is bound to be a resort in Canada suited perfectly. But would you rather join the crowds for apres-ski or be at peace with nature in one of the hidden gems?

Whether you’re relaxing after a day on the slopes or enjoying the thrill of online gaming, Jackpot Cityoffers a rewarding experience to fuel your passion. Play responsibly and discover your next win. 

Methodology

Jackpot City analyzed data from Google to find the number of reviews and ratings for 173 ski resorts in Canada, to find which resort had the highest rating and lowest number of reviews.

The resort with the highest Google rating and lowest number of reviews was revealed as Canada’s hidden gem ski resort, where visitors have the highest chance of finding slopes that aren’t filled with crowds of people and are still relatively undiscovered.

Data correct as of November 2025.