Jump the line
Take a cue from the locals and head over to the old Whitetooth Pioneer chairlift to beat the lineups. It doesn't get you as high, but it does get you easy access to intermediate and black diamond runs.
Don't fear the bear
The grizzly in the bear refuge about a third of the way up the mountain has a quirky personality - he's been known to charge the fence to frighten onlookers he has taken an instant disliking to. Don't worry, the fence won't break. Just show no fear.
Feel the civic pride
Unlike a few other resorts, you get a real sense of community at Kicking Horse. The town of Golden voted overwhelmingly to support privatizing the old municipally owned and operated Whitetooth ski area more than a decade ago, and optimism about future expansion is in the air.
The details
A Bramble Ski experience costs $11,466 for a group of eight for a full week in a luxe chalet. Includes six days of breakfast, afternoon tea and three-course evening meals with appetizers prepared by a private chef or experienced cook. Also includes daily housecleaning, a full day with an instructor or Big Mountain Centre guide (depending on guest's preference), concierge service and an evening of free massage. Self-catered options and three-to-five-day visits are also available. 1-877-444-4043; www.brambleski.com