Galena

Deep in the Selkirks near Trout Lake, Galena is a fly-in lodge built for skiers who want their days steep and their nights social. The journey runs by coach from Kelowna and finishes with a short hop by helicopter, delivering guests to a base stocked with a steam room, sauna, hot tub, and a lively games room.

This is not a place for easing into the sport. Galena has a reputation for turning strong skiers loose on demanding terrain, and the surrounding forests and features reward those who arrive ready to charge.

The tenure is heavily wooded, about 80 percent trees to 20 percent alpine, with pitches reaching steep angles. Expect snow-caked glades, playful spines, endless pillow lines, and the occasional cliff drop, all fed by consistently deep interior snow.

Because the terrain is so committing, Galena suits strong intermediate powder skiers through experts. Newcomers are better served elsewhere; this destination rewards experience and fitness.