Winter doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to head somewhere tropical. Fresh snow, mountain views, and thriving culture mean Kamloops is a destination for everyone. Find the winter adventure or relaxing trip you’re looking for.
Strap on the skis
1. Sun Peaks Resort
Canada’s second largest ski area has winter activities for the whole family. Alpine or Nordic, bunny hill or black diamond, ski or board, two alpine bowls or the 5 km run – there’s something for everyone. Check out the website for packages and deals. Details
Where: 1280 Alpine Road, Sun Peaks; 250-578-5474
Photo Credit: Sun Peaks Resort
2. Harper Mountain
Winter adventure where all the locals go! Ski, snowboard, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, and even night skiing and tubing after the sun goes down. The only thing that could make it better is hot chocolate around the wood-burning fire in the log day lodge. Details
3. Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
Long ski season and light, powdery snow makes the Kamloops region a world-renowned destination for skiing and snowboarding for all. Whether you’re just figuring it out or you’re practically a pro, you’ll find the run you’ll never forget. Hit the hotspots, find out where the locals go, and find your perfect slope. Details
4. Cross Country Skiing
Kamloops and area is filled with a network of trails for cross country skiing, no matter your ability or experience level. Groomed trails, such as those at Skate Lake, offer opportunities for classic and skate skiing, or blaze your own trail and set out into the backcountry. Details
Do more than just skiing this winter
1. Fat Biking
2. Ice Fishing
There are over 100 lakes within an hour’s drive of Kamloops – that means some of BC’s best ice fishing is well within reach. Drop a line for rainbow trout, bull trout, kokanee, and much more – maybe you’ll catch dinner while you’re out. Try on your own or grab a guide to find the spots the locals go. Details
Photo Credit: Destination British Columbia
3. Skating
With the mountains as a backdrop and the bright winter sun beating down on you, you’ll never want to come in off the ice when you’re skating in Kamloops and area. Volunteer-run community rinks, such as Pineview Valley Community Rink, are great for whiling away the day; frozen lakes, such as Shumway Lake or Inks Lake, are just begging for a game of shinny. Details
4. Hiking
Snow on the ground doesn’t mean hiking season is over. Get back to nature and explore the hills and open fields around Kamloops. Dress warm and grab good footwear and hit the trails. Stick to within the city limits or head out into the wilderness, but make sure to keep an eye on that forecast. Details
5. Snowshoeing
Skiing not quite your speed, but looking for something to really get you in the winter spirit? Snowshoeing is what you’re looking for. There are many rental and guide companies willing to take you out, or explore on your own. Try Kenna Cartwright Nature Park or Peterson Creek Nature Park for a good place to start. Details
6. Dirty Feet Snowshoe Races
Think you’ve got your feet under you when it comes to snowshoeing? Live like a local and take it to the mountains on a trek with Dirty Feet. Taking place at hills and trails around Kamloops, they have several upcoming snowshoe races of varying lengths and difficulties. Register early to get a spot. Details
7. Scenic Drive
Buckle up and pull out the map. Set your own schedule as you wind your way through the Kamloops region of the interior of BC. Who knows what you’ll find around the next bend in the road? Find hidden gems, meet the locals, and see mountain views that will stick with you long after they’re out of sight of the rear view mirror.
8. Wildlife viewing
9. Snowmobile
Pick things up with a snowmobile tour through the mountains near Kamloops! Several tour companies offer varying lengths of tours, no matter your experience on the back of a snowmobile. Keep in mind that the wind whips by pretty fast, so make sure you dress warm when you do pick the tour that’s right for you. Details
10. BC Wildlife Park
Get up close and personal with wildlife at BC Wildlife Park, a preserve that helps injured animals and completes research into more ways to help. Meet zookeepers, take a guided tour of the park, or book a private animal encounter to meet animals such as Mortimer the red-footed tortoise. Details
Where: 9077 Dallas Dr, Kamloops; 250-573-3242
Winter Fun in Provincial Parks
1. Greenstone Mountain Provincial Park
Snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing are all popular winter activities at Greenstone Mountain. But one of the biggest draws is the panoramic view you can get. Take advantage of the shorter daylight hours to see the stars – but make sure you dress warm! Details
2. McConnell Lake Provincial Park
One of the most popular reasons the locals and tourists alike head to McConnell Lake Provincial Park is the ice fishing. The lake is noted for its rainbow trout population, drawing anglers no matter the season. Drop a line and wait for the fish to bite, but keep in mind you need to pick up a license in town before heading out. Details
3. Paul Lake Provincial Park
4. Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park
The Gus Johnson Trail on the east and south side of the lake are popular with cross country skiers. Plus the trail system in Lac Le Jeune meets up with the Stake Lake ski area for even more Nordic skiing opportunities. Snowshoeing, ice skating, ice fishing, and more make the park a great winter destination. Details
5. Porcupine Meadows Provincial Park
Porcupine Meadows is perfect for snowshoeing. While there are no groomed trails with regular upkeep, the wetlands of the area make it easy to make your own path and explore the park. Keep in mind that there are no day-use sites available, so make sure you dress for the weather and are prepared for the conditions. Details
Indoor Fun in Winter
1. Kamloops Museum & Archives
The Kamloops Museum & Archives is one of the oldest and largest archives of Interior BC. That means it offers an extensive look into the region’s past through its history and its people. Discover how Kamloops came to be the way it is today and the lives of those who helped it get there. Details
Where: 207 Seymour Street, Kamloops; 250-828-3576
2. Big Little Science Centre
Get the curiosity flowing at Big Little Science Centre! Hands-on rooms let kids of all ages get face-to-face with science and robotics with experiments and play. Then head to the lab to learn the science behind what you’ve been playing with. Visit the website to see all the different opportunities available. Details
3. Kamloops Art Gallery
Make sure to visit one of BC’s best art galleries while you’re in the area. They are proud to showcase local, Canadian, and international talent in a way that puts a focus on building community. Their permanent collection features several contemporary and historical Canadian artists. Take advantage of free admission Thursdays! Details
Where: 101-465 Victoria Street Kamloops; 250-377-2400
4. Kamloops Blazers
Sure, you’ve been playing shinny on the lake, but what happens on the rink? Join the locals as they cheer on the Kamloops Blazers, part of the Western Hockey League. Regular season games stretch into February, so book your ticket and don the team colours! Details
5. Exit Kamloops
You can escape the cold, but can you escape the room? Get locked into a room filled with puzzles and riddles and solve the clues to make your way out. With rotating themes and difficulty levels, it’s always a new experience. Details
Where: 304 1801 Princeton-Kamloops Hwy; 236-425-2526
6. Explore Downtown
Downtown Kamloops keeps the core of the city bustling with locals and tourists alike. Boutiques, specialized stores, locally-owned shops, and more make it the perfect shopping destination, whether you’re looking for a signature style or that handcrafted souvenir. Spend the day exploring what downtown has to offer. Details
7. Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park
Preserving the history and culture of the 17 bands of First Nations that call the Secwepemc land home, the museum and the exhibits found there give you a glimpse into their lives and traditions. Learn about traditional tools, clothing, and way of life before western settlers arrived in the area, as well as how they shaped history today. Details
Where: 200-330 Chief Alex Thomas Way; 250-828-9749
Culinary Experiences during Winter
1. Wine Tours
2. Craft Brewery Tours
Craft brewing is becoming more and more popular, but every one is unique. Find your new favourite local brew while touring the area. Hit the hotspots on your own or take a tour to find out where the locals fill their growlers (plus, then you don’t have to be sober enough to drive…). What new flavours will stand out to you? Details
3. Atlas Steak + Fish
Atlas is not your average steakhouse! Atlas features a progressive and creative menu that brings together flavours from around the world and delivers them right to your table. Perfect for date night or an upscale gathering, you’re sure to leave impressed and stuffed from a great meal. Details
Where: 1555 Versatile Dr, Kamloops; 250-852-6565
Photo Credit: Atlas Steak + Fish
4. The Art of Coffee
It’s just not a visit to downtown Kamloops without a stop at The Art of Coffee. Join the locals for a cappuccino, indulge in a handmade dessert, and grab a sandwich to keep you going on your next adventure. Details
Where: 229 Victoria Street Kamloops; 250-372-3565
All about relaxation
1. Aina Organic Spa
Kamloops’ only organic wellness spa is there for when it’s time to relax and pamper yourself. Couples massage, raindrop massage, facial massage, coco butter mask, eucalyptus rain shower… find yourself losing all your troubles at Aina. Plus, treat yourself to some chocolate covered strawberries while you’re there. Details
Where: 145 Victoria St, Kamloops; 778-471-6411
2. It’s All About You Spa
Where: 201-166 Oriole Rd, Valleyview; 250-571-1902
3. Sitavana Birken Forest Buddhist Monastery
This Canadian Theravada Buddhist Monastery provides a peaceful refuge for those seeking to learn more about Buddhism and to find a new level of relaxation. Completely off the grid, it combines cutting-edge clean technologies with traditional practices. Visit the website for more details on visiting this site. Details
Where: 7000 Smith Lake Forest Service Road; 778-785-6059
Winter Festivities
1. Kamloops Festival of Performing Arts
People of all ages come from all over to take part in the Festival of Performing Arts. Adjudicators meet with talented people in disciplines such as instrumental, piano, choral, dance, and more. Plus, there are special concerts showcasing the homegrown talent to be proud of. Visit the website as details are announced. Details
2. Kamloops Film Festival
3. Kamloops Cowboy Festival
Mosey on up to the 24th Annual Cowboy Festival for a weekend to remember. There are lots of events to fill the weekend March 19-22, so make sure you make it out to the biggest and best festival of its kind in Canada. Trade show, live entertainment, delicious meals, and more await. Details
Photo Credit: Kamloops Cowboy Festival
4. Peak Pride
Head to Sun Peaks February 26-March 1 for an event that will overtake the whole resort. With lots of events and activities to take part in, you won’t run out of chances to celebrate and make memories. Note that this event is 19+ and tickets are available in advance. Details
Where: Sun Peaks Resort 1280 Alpine Rd Sun Peaks; 250-578-5474
5. Sun Peaks Wine & Food Festival
March 5-8 brings some of BC’s best food and wine to the forefront. Discover new and unique pairings with events all weekend long. Note that this festival is 19+ and ID is required; tickets are available for individual events. Details
Where: Sun Peaks Resort, 1280 Alpine Rd, Sun Peaks; 250-578-5474
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