Top of the World
Elevation: 2,080m
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Ahhh, the winter vacation.
You pack up your skis, boots, poles, and endless layers of clothing. With time on your side, you set out on your journey. And you have only one destination in mind – Sun Peaks.
The resort, which opened for the winter season November 18, 2017, announced they anticipated one of the best opening days in history. It’s safe to say the conditions are, well…dreamy. Sun Peaks is home to 4,270 acres of skiable terrain comprised of 135 trails and 17 gladed areas that span three mountains. Early snowfall this year meant that all three mountains were opened for their first weekend, including their Nordic trail system.
Located in BC’s interior, just 45 minutes from Kamloops, Sun Peaks has the second largest ski area in Canada. It’s somewhere you’re guaranteed to feel alive as you race down the ski runs, through the gladed areas and back into the lively village.
Whether you’re a total newbie or you’re feeling a little rusty, you can easily book a lesson with mountain experts to hone your skills. And when you’re finished on the slopes, there are a ton of cool things happening throughout the resort that you can enjoy. It’s the kind of powder snow haven where you’ll have a blast, even if you’re not a fan of winter sports.
With that being said, we’ve compiled a list of 10 activities that you can do at Sun Peaks this season.
Alpine Fondue and Starlight Descent
After the slopes have cleared and the mountains have fallen silent for the day, you’ll board the Sunburst Express chairlift for an exclusive twilight ride up to the newly renovated Sunburst Bar + Eatery mid-mountain restaurant. With your fellow diners, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the sunset down the valley, while darkness falls across the resort. Indulge in a delicious Swiss dining experience before going out to do a five-mile ski run glittering in the moonlight. This is a must-do activity at the resort!
Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides
Experience the awe and magic of the festive season by taking a ride in a horse-drawn sleigh. Sit back under the blankets and take in the sights and sounds of the village and surrounding area for a daylight, sunset, or evening tour. Guides take the tour through the village at a leisurely pace so you can listen to the clatter of hooves and ringing of sleigh bells before moving out to see majestic views of the valley and mountains.
Go Snowshoeing
Wrap up in your warm clothes and once you have rented a set of snowshoes, venture out on your own Sun Peaks adventure. Since there’s an extensive snowshoe trail system you’ll have plenty of space for discovering new, Instagram-worthy areas. You can also join a snowshoe tour if you’d prefer to be led by a knowledgeable mountain guide. Who knows, you might even see a snow cave, bird feeding station, and identify animal tracks along the way!
Dog Sled Tours
Another spectacular way that you can explore Sun Peaks backcountry is by joining a Mountain Man Dog Sled adventure. This exhilarating tour is something you’ll want to experience at least once as you’re taken on a magical trip through almost enchanted lands. Remember to wear gloves, mittens, a warm hat or a helmet for this sensational ride.
Cat Trax Groomer Rides
Take a ride in one of Sun Peaks’ Pisten Bully Snow Groomers and witness first-hand how they work their magic on the ski runs. Each ride is 45 minutes in length and there are two evening tours. Make sure you book your space early to avoid missing out on this epic ride.
Guided Ice Fishing
Spend an afternoon or evening on a fully-guided ice fishing adventure with Elevated Fishing Adventures. This experience is ultimately Canadian and you’ll join local guide Campbell for a fishing session on a mountain lake where you’ll get to try your hand at catching a few of the hard-fighting and great tasting wild Rainbow Trout. Everything you need is included in the tour, even a heated ice fishing tent. All you have to do is sit back, take it all in, and wait for that big catch.
Tubing
As soon as you arrive at Sun Peaks, one thing becomes apparent – you don’t have to be a certain age to have fun. And tubing is the perfect activity for all ages where you’re sure to laugh until your sides hurt.
Bungee Trampoline
Trampolines aren’t just for summer. You can bounce yourself merry at Sun Peaks throughout the whole season. The all-ages ride is located by the Village Day Lodge. And you can purchase your tickets at guest services and at the activities desk in the Village Day Lodge or Elevation Bike, Ski & Board in the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel.
Ski Biking
As you may have noted, the terrain at Sun Peaks is incredible for riding, and you can try out the fast-growing sport of ski biking at the resort. Tear up the snow as you explore the resort for the first time during a guided tour. Remember to reserve your spot in advance and wear your ski or snowboard boots!
Snowmobiling
If you’re a thrill seeker you’re going to want to try snowmobiling at Sun Peaks. The tours take you on a ride through the backcountry where you’ll get to ride on trails, past open frozen lakes, and clear meadows. Plus, you’ll get to take in the stunning views of the Thompson Nicola region, too. The question is, can you handle a two or four-hour tour? If you sign up for the nightly wiener roast, you’ll get to complete your evening with a campfire cookout at the McGillivray Lake cabin.
There’s also a wide range of date-specific events happening at Sun Peaks throughout the season that you don’t want to miss, from the annual Sun Peaks Winter Okanagan Wine Festival to Snowbombing Canada, and much more.