Revelstoke Mountain Resort & Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing

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RMR stands for epic snowfalls, expert terrain, an earthy vibe and more

Now in its sixth season of operation, Revelstoke Mountain Resort (RMR) has created enormous buzz in the worldwide skiing community for its epic snowfall, gnarly terrain and the nearby town's rootsy, down-to-earth vibe. Predictably, this reputation has spread far and wide, but RMR's sales and marketing director Ashley Tait says, "the cool new story is in the number of accomplished female skiers who are showing up in Revelstoke and calling it home."

Tait is referring to women like Leah Evans.

Evans is a member of a globetrotting tribe that competes on the Swatch Freeride World Tour. RMR offers her the ideal training territory for perfecting cliff-drops, carving high-speed turns and negotiating tight, tricky spots.

"It's a mountain with a lot of expert terrain, and draws a lot of professionals like sponsored skiers, photographers, avalanche safety technicians and mountain guides," says Evans.

When she's not on tour, Evans imparts her extensive big mountain know-how in her Girls Do Ski clinics, hosted at RMR and other resorts throughout the province. Her no-charge 20 Under 20 program gives back to the community by providing not just big mountain freeriding tips, but "life advice" to younger female skiers.

"When I was starting out on my freeskiing career, I had to find things out on my own," she says. "Hopefully I can encourage some of our great female athletes to get into competition, pick up some sponsors, or become connected with photographers and filmmakers."

For Evans, a typical day at RMR would include running laps on her favourite run – Three Bears – and then grabbing a calorie-laden croissant at La Baguette, a popular Revelstoke café that has opened a location at the Mackenzie Outpost cabin at the top of the gondola.

"After that, we definitely have to hike up to the Sub Peak," Evans says. "The view is spectacular and there are so many different ways down." She says a perfect day ends with an après-ski beer downtown at the Village Idiot, and – when it's happening – folk music at the United Church next door.

Daryl Ross is another Revelstoke local to search out. If you give him your height, weight and information about your skiing ability (including your preferred ski conditions and terrain), and you agree on the price, he'll make you a pair of customized Big Bend skis from his home shop.

Using the analogy of farm-to-market artisanal foods, Ross says, "Big Bend skis are built for people who want to connect with the craftsman who build their products." Ross has made custom skis for mountain guides and ski patrollers, as well as long-time clients at Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing.

Offering the convenience of flying direct from a base at RMR, Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing also promises North American's best helicopter skiing. Many options are available including a range of accommodation choices and package deals such as the five-run Powder Adventure, and a Two-Day No Frills that includes 10 runs over two days. During the early season, three- and five-day packages feature unlimited vertical, giving hearty skiers the opportunity to take as many runs as their bodies can stand. Consider the ultimate custom package with The Pinnacle Experience, plan a Boy's Trip or go with a long-time favourite "Classic Package."

Historic downtown Revelstoke's authentic ski-town atmosphere reflects a deep-rooted connection with the sport dating back over a century. The town also features a wide array of cafés, pubs and shops.  Attractions in town include an aquatic centre, skating arena, railway museum and art gallery, while the surrounding area offers a hydro dam, forestry museum, hot springs and nearby national parks.