There are a lot of reasons why people love Sun Peaks in British Columbia, Canada. The second-largest resort in the country, there are no less than 138 runs across 4270 acres to explore, with the perfect mix of terrain to suit all levels.
The 19.5 feet (6m) of snowfall each season helps to build up the winter playground of your dreams; the ski-in, ski-out accommodation options are extensive across a range of budgets and locations; and it’s an easy resort to get to, being just a 45-minute drive from the town of Kamloops.
But the Sun Peaks perks go so far beyond just the snow. Being a family favourite, the resort knows exactly how to cater to every age group, and so they’ve delivered a big mix of unique, fun and affordable activities to enjoy on and off the slopes.
Check out our top picks below to tick off when you’re there for the ultimate vacation.
The Sun Peaks Sports School
This goes far beyond what you’d expect from a ski school. The Sun Peaks Sports School not only offers lessons for all levels of skier and boarder, they also open a range of opportunities through workshops and camps to finesse all levels of your mountain approach.
Our top pick is the backcountry tour, where you’ll learn the safest routes, best lines and local secrets to exploring the famously dry powder of the resort. Or opt for a mogul camp to finally be able to conquer those bumps and keep up with the kids.
Nordic skiing and cross country camps
Interested in a different way to explore wide-open spaces and fresh alpine air? Sun Peaks has quickly become a serious destination for those looking to find their cross-country-skiing legs, offering pristine trails and the perfect way to get a fun workout.
The resort offers a dedicated Nordic centre where you can pick up rentals and tickets, then set out to explore 21 miles (34km) of perfectly groomed trails, all directly accessible from the village.
Those looking for backcountry terrain and scenic views can go from the Morrisey Express chairlift onto the Holy Cow trail, or take the popular and pet-friendly route to the McGillivray Lake Outpost Warming Hut.
Fat biking
There’s a whole new way to take in the slopes, and it’s fun for all ages. Fat bikes are designed for off-road cycling, with oversized tyres designed to handle the snow.
With rentals available from the Village, the entire family can take in the fresh mountain air and maybe even challenge each other to a little snow race.
Dog sled and horse sleigh ride tours
Sleighbells ring… are you listening? Your favourite four-legged friends await at Sun Peaks. Whether you prefer dogs or horses, they’re both on offer here.
The dog sledding is a must-book experience; you won’t believe it as you see the Alaskan Huskies howl for the opportunity to pull the sled that day. The tours start with a kennel briefing before you head out on the trails, experiencing just how people have been travelling for centuries through the snowiest of landscapes.
The horse-drawn sleigh rides are also offered throughout the day or choose a sunset or evening tour for a really special experience. Tuck in under blankets as the gentle draft horses wind you through the village and among the mountains.
Guided snowmobile tours
Snowmobiling is one of the best activities for thrill-seekers. The tours at Sun Peaks take you through the backcountry, over frozen lakes and through wide-open meadows while you enjoy the views along the way, and hone your snowmobiling expertise!
Don’t worry if your need for speed is yet to be discovered; the team caters for all levels of skill and expertise. There’s even an evening tour option designed for the perfect family experience; the Wiener Roast, which includes a campfire cookout at the McGillivray Lake Cabin.
Ice Fishing
There’s nothing like going on vacation and returning with the kind of story that the family will be talking about for years. Sun Peaks is the only resort in British Columbia to offer ice fishing on the mountain lakes that surround the resort – and it’s an incredible offering, complete with pop-up tents, fire pits and even hot drinks to keep your hands warm.
Spend your day on the slopes and then wrap it up on a frozen lake, watching the sunset, looking to catch a rainbow trout while your experienced guide takes you through every step of the process. Sounds like heaven? We think so too.
Ready to book the ultimate Sun Peaks vacation? Click here to speak to an expert. We can even add on your unique experiences along with your accommodation, lift tickets and more.
