By Ski, Snowboard and Snow Tube:

Mount Washington, a 25-km (16-mile) drive west of the Comox Valley, is Vancouver Island's year-round alpine destination. Winter activities include downhill and cross country skiing as well as snowboarding and snow tubing. The resort is famous for its 55 kilometers of cross country trails, and downhill skiers and snowboarders have their choice of numerous chairlifts, which include the Hawk high speed six pack lift, the backcountry-accessing Boomerang and the Eagle Express high speed quad, which whisks skiers and snowboarders to the mile-high summit in less than six minutes.

You'll find just about everything you need on the mountain including a restaurant, lounge, shops, equipment rentals, lessons and even a Kid's Zone. Many Comox Valley hotels, motels and resorts offer special ski packages during the winter months.

Other winter recreation activities include a snowboarding camp and special snowboarding events at Forbidden Plateau Recreation Area, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and guided back-country skiing. Adventure operators offer heli-skiing trips into more remote areas.

Mount Cain, a community run ski hill located near Port McNeil ( 2 hours north of the Comox Valley), is a great overnight trip for more rugged ski and snowboard enthusiasts.