Revelstoke: dropped through in the summer a couple of times. The last time was just before the houses at the new base went up for sale (off plan, via Christie’s or similar) from what I remember the original town is 5-10 min drive from the ski base. And the original town ain’t exactly buzzing. Also seem to recall the drive there from wherever the nearest intl airport is (Calgary?) is long and can be sketchy in winter. That’s all quite old info, from memory, so treat accordingly.
Banff: powder-licious but all the ski hills are a drive (5 mins for Norquay, 15/20 for Banff, 45 for Lake Louise) from Banff town. And it can get very cold there - lift is checking you for frostnip and sending indoors cold. I’ve see -25 there.
Whistler early season snow: never known it to be bad by Xmas. But ski in/ski out accommodation is thin on the ground. Your best bet IMO would be the Westin: right next to the Whistler gondola, ski valet, and on top of the village; or maybe the Carlton Lodge (not sure what that’s like inside though). Lift passes are now more expensive post Vail takeover. Transfer is 1h45 from YVR as long as you aren’t unlucky getting through the city.
Banff: powder-licious but all the ski hills are a drive (5 mins for Norquay, 15/20 for Banff, 45 for Lake Louise) from Banff town. And it can get very cold there - lift is checking you for frostnip and sending indoors cold. I’ve see -25 there.
Whistler early season snow: never known it to be bad by Xmas. But ski in/ski out accommodation is thin on the ground. Your best bet IMO would be the Westin: right next to the Whistler gondola, ski valet, and on top of the village; or maybe the Carlton Lodge (not sure what that’s like inside though). Lift passes are now more expensive post Vail takeover. Transfer is 1h45 from YVR as long as you aren’t unlucky getting through the city.