Kicking Horse Ski Area Map

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Statistics

Kicking Horse features the fourth highest vertical drop of any ski resort in North America at 4,133 feet (1,260 metres). The Golden Eagle Express Gondola whisks visitors to the mountain peak exposing the scenic alpine bowls, dramatic ridgelines and stunning scenery. While on the summit, the Eagle’s Eye Restaurant offers one of the most elevated dining experiences in Canada.

Total Terrain: 2,800+ in-bounds skiable acres
Number of runs: 120+ (85+ in bound chutes)
Base Elevation: 3,900 feet (1,190 metres)
Eagle’s Eye Elevation: 7,700 feet (2,350 metres)
Peak Lift Elevation: 8,033 feet (2,450 metres)
Number of Lifts: 5 

Kicking Horse History

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort can lend its name to Sir James Hector who in 1858 was led on an expedition by John Palliser in which they were exploring routes for Canada’s first trans-continental railway. While they were camped on the Great Divide, Sir Hector was attempting to tie his pack horse to a tree when he was viciously kicked by his horse which rendered him unconscious for so long that the native guides thought he was dead and dug a grave in a spiritual valley along the tribe’s namesake – the “Wapta” River. When Sir Hector awoke he went on to explore the valley of his planned burial and the river valley henceforth became known as the “Kicking Horse River” and the new route to the west.