Kelowna 
Winter in Salmon Arm and the surrounding area just can’t be beat. From outdoor activities, year round wineries, provincial park, and so much more, it’s perfect for the whole family. Dress warm and get ready to experience all winter has to offer.
Winter Adventures
1. Cross Country Skiing
The Shuswap region boasts some of the best cross country skiing in the province – so make sure it’s on your list! Larch Hills (20 km from Salmon Arm) has a 125 km trial network, with 43 km track set, with events such as moonlit and lantern skis. Also try Skamana Lake trails and Eagle River Nature Trail system to really get the whole experience.
2. Backcountry Adventure (The Shuswap Trail)
Without the hustle and bustle of city life, you can get close to nature in a whole new way. Backcountry adventures along The Shuswap Trail, especially Larch Hills Traverse, provides you with just such an opportunity. Snowshoeing and cross country skiing from spot to spot, with cabin stays or winter camping (and dressing warm!), lets you get the most out of winter. Details
3. Snowmobiling
4. Ice Fishing
The region his home to world-class fishing, all year round. Many of the lakes around Salmon Arm freeze completely over, making them a great place to drop your line in a hole in the ice. Try such spots as White Lake – one of the world’s top ten Rainbow Trout fishing lakes. Details
5. Snowshoeing
As the locals say, where there’s snow, there’s snowshoeing! It may take a moment to get your feet steady beneath you, but local rental companies can get you started and guides will point the way. Stay close to town or head out on the trails in the mountains – there’s something for every skill and experience level. Details
6. Sleigh Rides
What’s a more picturesque winter scene than a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the mountains? Throw in some hot chocolate and cinnamon buns with Walter’s Sleigh Rides and you have good old-fashioned fun for the whole family. Details
Where: Walter’s Sleigh Rides, 2068 Notch Hill Road Sorrento; 250-835-8384
7. Winter Hiking
Hundreds of kilometres of trails in the Shuswaps means hundreds of opportunities to lace up (and bundle up) and hit the trail. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you set out – you never know what you’ll see around the next bend. Details
Photo Credit: Natasha Durning
8. Salmon Arm Wharf
The wooden boardwalk in the heart of Salmon Arm is notable for multiple reasons. Not only is it the longest curved wharf in North America, it’s a great place to stroll and watch for migrating birds and local wildlife. Dress warm against the wind, and make sure you have your camera! Details
Winter Fun in the Parks
1. Shuswap Lake Provincial Park
2. Niskonlith Lake Provincial Park
There’s lots of winter activities to take part in at Niskonlith. A wide network of trails make great opportunities for cross country skiing and snowshoeing for all skill levels, with the opportunity to spot wildlife among the great views. Or, drop a line and do some ice fishing to see who in your group can get the most impressive catch. Note that visitors to this park should be self-sufficient. Details
3. Roche Lake Provincial Park
Located on Horseshoe and Roche Lakes, this park has all kinds of winter fun in store. Ice skating, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing are all popular activities by locals and visitors alike. Keep an eye out for posted advisory signs to ensure trails, ice surfaces, and paths are safe to use. Details
4. Tsutswecw Provincial Park
Tsutswecw (meaning “many rivers”) is home to famous salmon runs in October, but that doesn’t mean that’s the only time to go! The incredible trail system throughout the park is great for snowshoeing and cross country skiing in winter months, with each turn of the trail offering breathtaking views of the river canyons. Details
Out of the cold
1. Jungle Mania
Too cold to go outside? Kids bursting with energy? No problem. British Columbia’s tallest indoor jungle gym is the answer. Over 2,000 square feet of jungle-themed climbs, tunnels, slides, and more make this the place to go for kids 12 and younger. Don’t forget the family rate when you buy admission. Details
Where: 2450 C 10 Ave NW Salmon Arm; 778-489-5554
2. Salmar Theatres
Salmar Grand Cinemas and the historical Salmar Classic Theatre use state-of-the-art projection to show contemporary and classic movies, plus live broadcasts of the New York Metropolitan Opera and theatre productions. After a day playing inside, relax in the theatre for a classic show. Details
Where: 100 Hudson Ave Salmon Ave; Phone: 250-832-2263
Enjoy Cultural hotspots this Winter
1. Salmon Arm Arts Centre
In the heart of downtown Salmon Arm lies the Arts Centre, showcasing local and touring art exhibitions. Paintings, sculptures, Indigenous art, and so much more – discover art in all kinds of forms. Admission is by donation; check the website for exhibits and hours. Details
Photo Credit: Salmon Arm Arts Centre
Where: 70 Hudson Ave NE Salmon Arm; 250-832-1170
2. R.J. Haney Heritage Valley & Museum
Explore the Museum for exhibits showcasing the past and culture of the region, such as Stories of the Secwepemc Culture and Shuswap mining history. With some permanent and some rotating exhibits, there’s always something to check out. Visit the website for hours and admission prices as it varies by time of year. Details
Where: 751 Hwy 97B SE Salmon Arm; 250-832-5243
3. Heritage Week
The 24th Annual Heritage Week is going on the road. Partnering with The Mall at Picadilly February 17-23, the event has the theme of 2020 Vision: Bringing the Past Into the Future. They aim to bring people together with the stories and experiences of people of the region’s past. Details
Where: R.J. Haney Heritage Valley & Museum 751 Hwy 97B SE Salmon Arm; 250-832-5243
Culinary Experiences in Winter
1. Larch Hills Winery
Larch Hills Winery is family owned and operated and an excellent stop for all travellers. A true cool-climate vineyard, it is BC’s northernmost winery. Stop by to check out their fantastic selection of reds, whites, roses, dessert wines, and sparkling. It’s hard to leave empty-handed… Details
Where: 110 Timms Rd Salmon Arm; 250-832-0155
Photo Credit: Larch Hills Winery
2. Shuswap Pie Company
You just can’t leave before you visit the local gem Shuswap Pie Company! Savory pies, sweet pies, and the monthly special they’re famous for – you definitely won’t leave hungry. Small batches made with homemade ingredients keep things tasting just like grandma used to make. Details
Where: Unit A 331 Alexander Street Salmon Arm; 250-832-7992
3. DeMille’s Farm Market
Where: 3710 Trans Canada Hwy Salmon Arm; 250-832-7550
Relax & Rejuvenate in Winter
1. Le7ke Spa
Le7ke (pronounced La (pause) Ka) Spa focuses on tranquility and relaxation – perfect for after a day playing in the snow. Inspired by First Nations traditions, they offer such services as an infared sauna, Vichy shower room and pool access, as well as a host of seasonal pampering treatments. The experience is completely customizable, so look into all the options. Details
Where: Quaaout Lodge 1663 Little Shuswap Lake Road Chase; 250-679-3090
2. Blush + Blossom Boutique Spa
With a romantic and vintage French atmosphere, Blush + Blossom focuses on clean and ethical beauty products. They specialize in such services as facials, relaxation massages, and skin services. They even offer workshops and classes to learn more. Details
Where: 2826 Chalet Drive Blind Bay; 250-515-1805
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