Kelowna and the Central Okanagan region is one of Canada’s tourism hot spots – and it’s easy to see why. From award-winning ski resorts to year round wine country, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Start planning now for an incredible winter getaway.
Hit the slopes this winter
1. Big White Ski Resort
This award-winning ski resort has so many reasons to visit! Downhill skiing and snowboarding on 119 designated runs, cross country skiing, ice climbing, dog sledding, snowshoeing… the list goes on and on. But one of their biggest draws is Western Canada’s largest night skiing area. Details
Where: Big White Road, Kelowna; 250-765-3101
2. Silver Star Mountain Resort
A little further away than Big White, but still within an hour’s drive of Kelowna, Silver Star is the home to champagne powder, over 130 runs, and family-friendly activities all season long. Alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, sleigh rides, tubing, snowmobiling, and so much more – what are you waiting for? Details
Where: 125 Main Street, Silver Star Mountain; 1-800-663-4431
3. Nordic Skiing
More Outdoor Winter Activities
1. Snowshoeing
There’s nothing like getting out on snowshoes to really experience winter. While there are many areas where snowshoeing is acceptable, head out to one of the designated snowshoe trails to really get the full package. For example, try the groomed trail at Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club. Details
2. Myra Canyon Trestles
Hike or snowshoe the Myra Canyon Trestles for incredible mountain views. The 18 trestle bridges were originally built by hand and are now breathtaking destinations for getting out in the mountain air. Note that the pathways and roads can be slippery, so make sure you have good grips and appropriate clothing. But, it’s worth it. Details
3. Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a popular pastime in the Central Okanagan region, and it’s to see why. Lakes such as Darke Lake in Darke Lake Provincial Park is big enough that it doesn’t freeze completely, so it’s the place to go to drop a line. Try to catch rainbow or eastern trout. Details
4. Birdwatching
No matter the time of year, the Central Okanagan Region and Kelowna is home to an impressive number of species of birds. Dress warm and head out to such bird hotspots as Chichester Bird Sanctuary or Carney Pond to see how many you can spot. Don’t forget the camera – and make sure it has a good zoom. Details
5. Hiking
Out of the snow
1. Kelowna Farmers and Crafters Market
Every Saturday from January 4-March 28, you’re invited to shop local and support the farmers and crafters of the area. Over 30 booths offer unique finds such as ethnic foods, locally-grown produce, paintings and sculpture, jewelry, and much more. What treasures will you find? Details
Where: 1800 Parkinson Way, Kelowna; 250-878-5029
2. Planet Lazer
Don on a different type of gear for this activity. Over 6,000 feet across two levels provide the space for Kelowna’s premier laser tag facility. Go head to head to see who can defeat the others and come out on top in this family-favourite activity that doesn’t depend on the outdoor temperature. Details
Where: 3-1960 Springfield Rd, Kelowna; 250-717-8260
3. Okanagan Heritage Museum
Step into the past at the Okanagan Heritage Museum. Learn how the area was developed, what continues to sustain it, and why they put such emphasis on biodiversity. Permanent exhibits such as the one featuring the Syilx/Okanagan people help share and preserve their history, while feature exhibits such as the Canadian Hockey one (running until the end of February) tell stories from across Canada. Details
Where: 470 Kingsway Avenue, Kelowna; 250-763-2417
4. Okanagan Wine & Orchard Museum
When you’re in wine country, what other history comes to mind than that of wineries? Located in BC’s oldest fruit packinghouse, this museum gives a glimpse into the highs and lows of the history of winemaking in the Okanagan, as well as some of the tools of the trade that got it established. Details
Where: 1304 Ellis Street Laurel Packinghouse Kelowna; 250-478-0325
5. Kelowna Art Gallery
There are four different exhibition spaces to explore at the Kelowna Art Gallery, located in the heart of Kelowna’s cultural district. The Gallery puts a focus on Canadian artists, especially local BC and Okanagan talent. The upcoming Sovereign Acts exhibit is sure to draw the crowds. Details
Where: 1315 Water Street, Kelowna; 250-762-2226
6. Beyond the Crux Climbing Gym
Staying inside to get out of the cold doesn’t mean sitting around. Keep things active at Kelowna’s premier rock climbing gym. Providing challenging and exciting climb for all ages and experience levels, Beyond the Crux will keep you moving, while still keeping you out of the snow. Details
Where: 5-865 Finns Rd, Kelowna; 250-860-7325
7. Kelowna Rockets
Want to fit in with the locals? Head to a Kelowna Rockets game and cheer on the home team! The regular season for this WHL runs into March, so there are lots of opportunities to catch a game. Who will make it into the finals? Details
Treat your taste buds
1. Walkable Tasting Trail
2. Kelowna’s Ale Trail
Think Central Okanagan is just about wine? Think again. It’s so much more. Travel the Ale Trail and discover unique craft brews. From Kelowna’s first microbrew pub, Freddy’s Brewpub, to Tree Brewing Beer Institute, who started the craft brewing craze in the region, you’ll find all kinds to taste. Details
3. Wine Country
There are more than 40 wineries around Kelowna – so what are you waiting for? Take a guided tour or explore on your own to wineries such as Summerhill and Gray Monk Estate to see the snow-covered orchards and taste their specialties. Did you know Canada is the world’s largest producer of ice wine? Check out what all the fuss is about! Details
Pamper yourselves this winter
1. Beyond Wrapture
Where: 1171 Harvey Ave, Kelowna; 250-448-8899
2. Spa at the Grand
This full service spa is a favourite for locals and tourists alike and is easily found within the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort and Conference Centre. Look into packages such as Head-to-Toe, Okanagan Serenity, Just the Two of Us, and even Beer and Blokes – a package specially designed with guys in mind. Visit the website for all the details. Details
Where: 1310 Water Street, Kelowna; 250-868-5629
Winter Events for your Calendar
1. The Village – Walk, Dine, and Wine
Running February 2-6, this event sees restaurants in Big White Ski Resort’s Village pairing their signature dishes with local BC wine. Give your taste buds a treat and experience each one at your own pace and in your own order. Book your tickets well in advance, as it tends to sell out. Details
Where: Big White Ski Resort, 5315 Big White Road, Kelowna; 250-765-3101
2. Okanagan Bridal Expo
Get a head start on wedding planning at the Okanagan’s largest bridal expo. Now in its ninth year, 2020’s expo will take place January 19 and feature vendors, tips, and ideas to help plan your big day. The region is big for destination weddings, so what better place to start planning? Details
Where: The Delta Grand, Kelowna
3. North Face Dirty Feet Snowshoe Night Run/Walk
Sure you can snowshoe, but can you do it in the dark? The Dirty Feet Snowshoe Night Run/Walk has 5 km and 10 km routes to race with your headlamp guiding your way. The race is held on February 8, starting in the evening to get a unique ambiance for snowshoeing. Make sure to register in advance. Details
Where: Happy Valley Day Lodge Big White Ski Resort, 5315 Big White Road, Kelowna; 250-765-3101
4. Family Sundays at the Art Gallery
Come by the Kelowna Art Gallery every Sunday for an event the whole family will enjoy. Sunday afternoons are dedicated to making art accessible and fun for all ages. Kids can make their own art as they learn more about the gallery and the works of Canadian artists. Details
Where: Kelowna Art Gallery, 1315 Water Street, Kelowna; 250-762-2226
5. Ski Resort Scavenger Hunt
Search Big White Ski Resort to find and answer the clues! Teams of four (kids welcome!) will be lead from one area to the next on green and blue runs in order to get the completed hunt and the chance to win prizes. Takes place January 22. Details
Where: White Ski Resort, 5315 Big White Road, Kelowna; 250-765-3101;
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