Winter Fun in Salmon Arm

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.

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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

Mountains mean incredible snowmobiling – there’s no doubt about it! Seven excellent sledding sites in the Shuswaps involve world-class powder, challenging climbs, and flowing bowls. Team up with a rental and guide company to find all the best spots to play in. There are lots of local companies to give you a hand. Details

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

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

Located on the old delta of Scotch Creek, south of Salmon Arm, Shuswap Lake Provincial Park is a great place to get back to nature. Many of the hiking trails become perfect cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails once the snow flies. Parking is available at the boat launch. Details

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

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

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

Open 7 days a week until dusk year round, DeMille’s makes it easy to eat and shop local. A bakery, Kurt’s Deli, gourmet specialty products, and so much more can be found with goodies no matter the season. Pick up everything you need for lunch! Details

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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