Top of the World
Elevation: 2,080m
Published October 31, 2025
With its wide open skies and quiet, peaceful village, Sun Peaks is one of the best destinations for stargazing in BC. Clear nights are common, offering endless opportunities to get a glimpse of amazing sky phenomena over the valley. From vibrant rainbows and dazzling “Sun dogs” during the day, to constellations, meteor showers, and if you’re lucky, even the colourful Northern Lights visible at night.
Looking up at the stars can be a wonderful way to slow down, disconnect from daily routine, and reconnect with friends, family, or simply yourself! To see the most stars and constellations, it’s necessary to get out of big cities where light pollution obscures the majority of stars. The small, charming village of Sun Peaks offers minimal light interference, creating the ideal environment for stargazing among nature.
Read on for tips and tricks to make the most of a stargazing adventure in Sun Peaks.
Photos by Kyle James, Sam Egan, Zuzy Rocka, and Reuben Krabbe.
The best times to go stargazing in Sun Peaks
Which season is best to see stars in Sun Peaks?
You can enjoy stargazing in Sun Peaks year-round! In summer, warm evenings invite you to relax on a patio and marvel at the night sky’s endless wonders. In winter, crisp, clear nights stretch longer, offering the perfect chance to spot constellations and shining stars a little earlier in the evening.
Optimal times for the darkest skies
The best time for stargazing is during the darkest hours of the night, after twilight fades and before the first light of dawn. Since twilight can linger for up to 90 minutes after sunset, aim to begin your stargazing session about two hours after the sun goes down for the clearest views.
Be prepared for the weather
Before you set out beneath the stars, take a moment to peek at the weather forecast. The most magical nights happen when the weather is clear and calm, revealing a sparkling sky above. A little preparation ensures that clouds don’t steal the show and that you’re wrapped up warmly enough to linger awhile. When the conditions are just right, the universe feels a little closer, and every star seems to shine just for you.
The Best Spots in Sun Peaks to See Stars
Cozy spots in Sun Peaks village for stargazing
After a delicious dinner or a cozy nightcap at one of the local Sun Peaks restaurants, take a leisurely stroll through the fairytale alpine village and enjoy the stars overhead. For the perfect spot to relax and gaze upward, settle into one of the giant Adirondack chairs scattered around the village. You can find one near the Village Stage, and another overlooking the mountains in front of the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel.
Walking along the paved Valley Trail is another wonderful way to spot the Big Dipper or the shimmering Milky Way while breathing in the crisp mountain air and the fresh scent of the forest.
Accommodation with sky views
Many Sun Peaks hotels, condos, and vacation homes have patios and balconies available for late-night stargazing. Undoubtedly one of the most relaxing ways to stargaze is from a private hot tub with a cold beverage in hand!
Winter Activities with Great Stargazing Opportunities
Sun Peaks is home to some incredible nighttime activities in winter that provide magical opportunities for stargazing! Book one of the following thrills for an unforgettable evening with the stars:
Catching the Northern Lights in Sun Peaks
The northern lights rarely reach as far south as BC, but when they do, Sun Peaks offers an incredible vantage point to witness this natural wonder. The village’s high elevation and low light pollution create ideal conditions for spotting the aurora when it makes an appearance on the horizon.
To increase your chances, keep an eye on local aurora forecasts and space weather alerts, which often predict heightened solar activity. For the best viewing, head out late at night or in the early hours of the morning, find a dark open area away from lights, and let your eyes adjust to the darkness. With a little patience and luck, you might just see the sky dance in ribbons of green and violet.
Tips for photographers
Don’t forget your camera when chasing the northern lights in Sun Peaks. Even when the aurora is faint or barely visible to the naked eye, a long exposure on a phone or camera can reveal its hidden colours. Use a tripod to keep your shot steady and experiment with different exposure times to capture the movement and glow.
Sun Peaks Accommodations: Find Your perfect Stay
From village-centre hotels, to private condos and vacation homes—each have a unique personality of their own, and many have ski-in/ski-out access. You can ski and ride through a winter wonderland village where everything is centrally located, and right from your favourite trails to bars, restaurants, cafés, shops, and back to your lodge.
Stargazing in Sun Peaks FAQs
When is the best time to go stargazing in Sun Peaks?
The best time is during the darkest hours of the night, after twilight and before dawn. Start about two hours after sunset for the clearest skies. Summer offers warm evenings, while winter brings long, crisp nights perfect for stargazing.
What should I bring for stargazing?
Dress warmly, bring a blanket, and use a red-light flashlight to preserve night vision. A camera and tripod are great for photos, and a hot drink makes the experience even cozier.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Sun Peaks?
Yes, occasionally. The Northern Lights sometimes reach southern BC, and Sun Peaks’ high elevation and low light pollution make it a great place to see them when solar activity is strong. Check local aurora forecasts before heading out.
Are there stargazing tours or nighttime activities in Sun Peaks?
Yes! Try winter experiences like the Date Night Snowmobile Tour, Moonlight Snowshoe & S’mores Tour, Alpine Fondue & Ski Experience, or Cat Trax Groomer Rides for unique adventures with opportunities for stargazing