Best Things to do in Sun Peaks Kamloops BC in winter

There are so many awesome things to do in Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops BC. In fact, it’s easily one of our favorite resorts.

In fact, we like it so much that we even bought a place there and spent the winter of 2020/21 living and skiing in Sun Peaks and now spend many weekends throughout the year living up on the mountain.

Sun Peaks not only has great, light snow, but lacks lift lines, is Canada’s 2nd largest ski resort, and has a great mix of family-friendly/beginner terrain as well as more difficult steep skiing.

Plus, Sun Peaks Village itself is super cute! If you’re considering visiting Sun Peaks BC, here are the best things to do in Sun Peaks BC!

Though visiting Sun Peaks in winter is my favorite time to be up on the mountain. Sun Peaks Kamloops is actually a great year-round destination resort. There are loads of Sun Peaks summer activities to do from mountain biking to trail running and disc golf!

The best things to do in Sun Peaks in the Winter

With so many things to do in Sun Peaks Canada, you won’t get bored, even if you’re not a skier!

There are a lot of non-skiing activities to do in Sun Peaks in winter too.

Go Skiing at Sun Peaks

If you’re visiting Sun Peaks in winter, the chances are this is why you’re visiting!

With over 4,270 km of ski terrain, you won’t get bored at Sun Peaks!

Sun Peaks ski terrain is varied with family-friendly trails down near the village, steep trails such as Chute and Headwalls, plenty of tree-skiing options, and even some backcountry skiing access from the top of the lifts in The Gills and West Bowl.

Plus, it’s not just one mountain you can check out, there are several and the views are amazing.

The highlight, though, has to be how quiet the trails are.

Especially if you’re used to skiing at Whistler or popular resorts in the US. In 100 days of skiing, we only waited in line on a handful of days and those waits were no more than 15 minutes.

With a lack of lift lines, it’s easy to find powder stashes a few days after it’s snowed!

Check out the Sun Peaks map to see the terrain, and keep an eye on Sun Peaks weather. Sun Peaks opening day is usually late November; either the 3rd or 4th weekend of the month depending on snow conditions.

There ar numerous places in the village where you can find ski and snowboard rentals. When we’ve had family visit we used Elevation Sun Peaks for renting gear.

• For the 23/24 winter season, a Sun Peaks lift ticket and day tickets cost $149 +GST for adults.

If you already have old Sun Peaks cards you can recharge them to save yourself the cost of a new one.

Explore the Sun Peaks Nordic Trails

We got into Nordic skiing while living in Sun Peaks as a fun activity after work or when it was a little icier on the slopes and it quickly become one of my favorite winter activities.

The Sun Peaks Nordic trails are really well maintained and the 34 km of trails are also regularly re-set.

There’s even lift-accessed Nordic skiing from the top of the Morrissey chair on the Holy Cow trail which is quite long and super fun.

Sun Peaks Dog Sledding

If you’ve ever dreamed of dog sledding, then do it in Sun Peaks! This is the closest you get to dog sledding Kamloops and it’s so worth the drive up the hill.

The dog sledding team at Sun Peaks is a family-run business and the dogs are the cutest!

On a dog sledding adventure with Mountain Man Dog Sledding Adventures, you’ll get a chance to meet the dogs before they fly you through the wooded trails and then feed and pet the dogs some more once you return to base. It’s the best!

Hit the Skating Rink

The new skating rink at Sun Peaks is a full-size hockey rink that’s open-air but undercover.

It’s a great activity if you’re not a skier or if you’re looking for something to do once the lifts have closed.

The Sun Peaks skating rink is open throughout winter and it costs $8 for adults and $6 for those aged 6 to 18. You can also get skate rentals for your session for $7 but you can’t reserve them so go early to make sure you get the right size!

Sessions at the Sun Peaks hockey rink should be pre-booked online on the Sun Peaks Municipality website and they typically last about 1.5 hours.

Stretch it out at a Sun Peaks Yoga Class

The Sun Peaks yoga studio is one of my favorite places in Sun Peaks. It’s beautiful inside, always smells so good and all the teachers are super welcoming and friendly.

After a day on the slopes, a good stretch will help make sure you’re raring to go the next day making this one of my top picks for things to do in Sun Peaks winter.

Explore the Village

Sun Peaks Village is super cute with the colored buildings, twinkly lights, and skiers going right through the village.

There are loads of shosp including souvenir shops for some Canadian gifts to bring home, clothing stores like Patagonia and North Face, a small supermarket – Bluebird Market – and, of course, plenty of outdoor gear shops selling skis and snowboards, doing rentals, and providing everything you need for some mountain fun.

It’s well worth a wander with a coffee from Bolacco or Vertical Cafe in hand!

Wander the Snowshoe Trails

For less adrenaline-fuelled adventures in the snow, snowshoeing is a great choice! My favorite snowshoe trail at Whistler is to head out from P5 to McGillivray Lake with a flask of hot chocolate in my backpack.

There are some great trails through the woods at Sun Peaks and you can also take a moonlight s’mores and snowshoe tour.

Whether you’re on a guided tour or exploring independently, Sun Peaks ensures you’re well-prepared.

Every snowshoer can pick up a Sun Peaks trail map and an interpretive guide, so that you can choose trails that match your fitness.

Snowshoe trail passes cost $5 for a day’s access.

Hike to the Sun Peaks Waterfall

Down in Whitecroft (the village just before the final climb up to Sun Peaks) is a little waterfall that you can get to after a short hike.

It’s super pretty in the winter and worth checking out.

I think it’s one of the best waterfalls near Kamloops!

Try Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is another activity in Sun Peaks for non-skiers.

You’ll head out onto one of the local lakes like McGillivray Lake or Heffley Lake depending on the conditions.

The best local company to go with is Elevated Fishing Adventures which provides you with everything you need for this winter adventure.

They’ll also build a little shelter out on the lake to keep you warm as you wait to get your first bite!

Take a snowmobiling tour in Sun Peaks

For an fast-paced ride across the snowy landscapes around Sun Peaks, snowmobiling tours are hard to beat.

Sun Peaks Adventure Tours offer both 2 and 4-hour snowmobile journeys that are suitable for those looking to get a dose of adrenaline and families looking to try something different.

On these tours you can dive deep into the backcountry and explore the beautiful Thompson Nicola region.

Tours are available daily, making it easy to fit into your vacation plans. Advance reservations are required and prices start from $220 for drivers and $92 for passengers.

Go axe throwing in Sun Peaks

When the lifts stop turning and you’re looking for things to do in Sun Peaks at night Sun Peaks Axe Throwing in Peaks West is definitely a fun activity.

Cleavage Axe Co. opened a couple of seasons ago and has quickly become a fun thing to do in Sun Peaks winter seasons.

You can book a lane in advance and they’ll take you through the basics then it’s up to you to try and hit a bull’s eye!

Ride the Sun Peaks snow limo

Don’t ski? No problem! Experience the magic of the mountains with a snow limo ride.

With Snow Limo, you don’t need to ski or snowboard to see the mountain.

A personal chauffeur takes you on a unique mountain ride, introducing you to the charm of Sun Peaks Resort.

It’s a fantastic way to join skiing friends or family on the slopes without the skis!

Tours are available daily, though they’re weather-dependent. Remember to book in advance and wear a helmet for safety.

Watch a Kamloops Blazers hockey game

A winter trip to Sun Peaks isn’t complete without experiencing the exhilarating atmosphere of a Kamloops Blazers hockey game!

You can arrange transport and a ticket for the game through Sun Peaks Resort and then join the shuttle bus from the hill down to Kamloops’ Sandman Centre Arena.

Be sure to book in advance!

Take a Sleigh Ride

If you’re traveling to Sun Peaks with kids, then I’m sure they’d love the horse drawn sleigh rides at Sun Peaks.

The Sun Peaks stables offer sleigh rides through the winter season and there’s something so Christmassy about the sound of the bells as you trot through the snow.

Enjoy Fondue on the Mountain

Experience an alpine culinary delight with a fondue dinner atop Sun Peaks Mountain.

As the slopes shut the lifts stay open for those who’ve booked onto the mountain fondue experience.

You’ll be taken up on the Sunburst Express charlift and get to enjoy a 3 course Swiss fondue meal with cheese, meats and chocolate.

After your fondue you’ll get to ski down to the bottom of the hill of the freshly groomed green run: 5 Mile, guided by torches.

Pre-book at the activities desk in the Village Day Lodge by 4:30 pm the day before.

If this isn’t available you can still enjoy some fondue at Fondue Stube in the village!

Go skiing with local Olympian Nancy Greene

For ski enthusiasts, skiing alongside Olympic Champion and Sun Peaks ambassador, Nancy Greene, is a dream come true.

Making Sun Peaks her winter home, Nancy often graces the slopes, sharing her love for the sport with guests.

To join her, keep an eye out for signs near the Sunburst chairlift.

Go tubing in Sun Peaks

Seeking snowy fun off the skis? Dive into a world of fun at Tube Time.

Perfect for all ages, this unique lift accessed tube park offers an exhilarating experience.

Tickets are limited to 20 per 2-hour slot, ensuring everyone has ample space and time to enjoy the winding lanes.

Kids under five ride free, while those aged six and up can indulge in two hours of tubing fun for just $20.

Grab your tickets from the Activities Desk in the Village Day Lodge and get set for a snow-filled adventure.

Try fat biking in Sun Peaks

Shift gears and embrace the snow on two wheels with fat biking in Sun Peaks.

These mountain bikes have oversized tires, are perfect for snow-laden trails.

There are some trails in the Nordic Ski area which allow fat bikes, otherwise you can ride the Valley. Trail that connects the different parts of Sun Peaks together.

Ensure you stick to the designated routes and remember to purchase the Trail Access Ticket for $5.

For those needing a bike, rentals are available at Elevation Bike, Ski & Board, starting at $45 for 2 hours.

Take a tour of the mountain with a Sun Peaks Local

There’s no better way to explore Sun Peaks than with a local.

Home to some of Canada’s top outdoor lovers, these free daily tours offer insight into the best spots, be it for skiing or simply to grab a delicious bite to eat.

Look out for the welcoming Sun Hosts, easily recognizable by their bright orange coats and welcoming smiles, near the Sunburst chairlift.

Though the tours cater to all ability levels, participants should comfortably ski or ride green runs. Remember, it’s an experience and not a lesson.

And while Sun Hosts can guide you through a range of terrains, they (usually) won’t be venturing into glade areas or double black diamond runs.

Attend the Sun Peaks wine festival

Usually held towards the end of the season this is one of the best Sun Peaks events of the whole year!

During the Sun Peaks wine festival local businesses put on different events that clebrate what they do best paired with alcohol.

For example you can combine axe throwing with smpling local ciders, take a moonlit snowshoe tour with mulled wine, enjoy bubbles and brunch at a local restaurant or simply go to some wine tasting events.

Slide down the local’s tobogganing area

Head to the locals’ favorite tobogganing area at Sun Peaks at the base of the Morrisey and Orient chairlifts.

It’s a free area that’s lit in the evening and has a hill which is perfect for tobogganing down.

Let the kids release their remaining energy, or join in for a family slide down the hill.

There’s plenty of parking at Parking Lot 5 but you will need your own sled.

Go Heli Skiing near Sun Peaks

For an extra special ski adventure near Sun Peaks, book a heli skiing tour with local company Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing (MWHS).

On these tours you’ll go deep into the untouched terrains of Blue River, BC, and immerse yourself in what has been praised as the ultimate heli-skiing experience since 1970.

Get a Spa Treatment

Sun Peaks also has a couple of places offering spa treatments.

You can get a mobile massage from Hands on the Move, or head to Kookaburra Lodge to get the full spa experience at Sun Peaks Spa.

it’s not quite on the same level as the Scandinave Spa in Whistler, but there are still plenty of options for a relaxing time on the hill.

Best Restaurants in Sun Peaks

For a small village, there are still some great Sun Peaks restaurants to keep you fuelled during your visit to Sun Peaks.

Here are some of our favorites:

• Powderhounds: Famous for their schnitzel and potatoes, you won’t leave hungry! My favorite of all the Sun Peaks village restaurants
• Vertical Cafe: If you need a quick lunch or breakfast head to Vertical for local, homemade food with loads of vegetarian and vegan options
• Bolacco: Great service and delicious pastries!
• Mountain High Pizza: Tasty slices and whole pizzas
• Bottoms Sun Peaks: Bottoms is a must while you’re in Sun Peaks! Tasty burgers and nachos, great drinks and it’s a whole lotta fun! Heading here after a day of skiing is a super fun idea for Sun Peaks winter activities once the lifts are closed. This is where you’ll find the best Sun Peaks nightlife.
• Ohana Deli: Not a restaurant, but does have lots of frozen pies and meals that are easy to heat up and eat in your Sun Peaks accommodation.
• Voyageur: The fanciest place in the village which serves up great French-Canadian dishes and does a delicious Christmas lunch Closed as of fall 2023

Where to Stay in Sun Peaks

Of course, we’re biased, but our Airbnb in Sun Peaks, the Alpine Rooms, is a great option! It sleeps 6 and is in Peaks West with a private hot tub and mountain views.

We’ve previously stayed at the Peaks Bed and Breakfast in Whitecroft – 5 minutes down the hill. Michelle is a great host and her breakfasts are delicious!

Friends have stayed at some hotels in Sun Peaks including The Grand Hotel Sun Peaks (Sun Peaks Grand) which has the benefit of being right in the village.

How to get to Sun Peaks

There are a few options you can take to get to Sun Peaks.

Most visitors to Sun Peaks arrive by car with further details below.

You can also fly to Kamloops Airport and then either rent a car or take a ride with Sun Peaks shuttle companies including Sun Star Shuttle or Tastefull Excursions.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Chilliwack/Vancouver to Sun Peaks

The easiest way to get to Sun Peaks from Vancouver is to take the Coquihalla Highway (Hwy 5) through Merritt (check out Kentucky Alleyne Lake on the way) and then to Kamloops.

At Kamloops, follow signs to Jasper to Sun Peaks. This drive takes between 4-6 hours, sometimes longer depending on weather conditions.

Check Drive BC before you travel to stay up to date with road conditions.

There are also a couple of other routes.

• Hwy 99: You can take Hwy 99 from Vancouver to Whistler, Pemberton, Lillooet, and then across to Cache Creek and Kamloops.
• Hwy 3: Take the Trans Canada out of Vancouver to Chilliwack and Hope, then take Hwy 3 past Manning Park then the 5A to Merritt (see above from Merritt)

Sun Peaks to Kamloops takes around 40 minutes by car.

Travelling around BC in winter? Take a look at my Vancouver to Kamloops road trip guide full of the best placs to stop along the way.

Getting to Sun Peaks from Edmonton

From Edmonton to Sun Peaks, take the Yellowhead Hwy to BC, then BC-5S to Valemount/Kamloops then follow signs to Sun Peaks as you near Kamloops.

Getting to Sun Peaks from Calgary

From Calgary or Revelstoke, you’ll take BC Hwy 1 westbound to Kamloops, through Banff and Golden.

FAQs about the best Sun Peaks activities

Final thoughts on what to do at Sun Peaks Ski Resort

With a high number of winter sun hours, low lift lines, and almost endless places to go skiing, Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops is one of the best places for skiing in British Columbia.

If you’re looking for what to do in Sun Peaks or Sun Peaks activities in winter, then hopefully this guide that’s full of Sun Peaks things to do has helped you out.

If you’re looking for more things to do near Sun Peaks, be sure to check out this guide to Johnson Lake near Sun Peaks which is a beautiful blue lake (though only really accessible in summer). I’ve also got a tonne of travel guides for the Interior region of BC including Kelowna, Revelstoke, and more.

For more skiing guides in BC, check out my guide to Revelstoke in winter, as well as what to do in Whistler in winter, the best Whistler cross country skiing trails, what to do in Whistler in December, and where to go ice skating in Whistler BC and how to find the Blackcomb Ice Cave.

Last Updated on November 10, 2023 by Hannah