Hiking the Thompson Okanagan Mountain Resorts
Explore the many great ski mountain resorts in the Thompson Okanagan region. When the resorts transition to summer they offer a new array of exciting warm-weather adventures. Among these, hiking is one of the many adventures that can be enjoyed on these famous mountains. From easy to challenging hikes, and opportunity for trail running, these mountains have it all.
Explore the many amazing ski mountain resorts in the Thompson Okanagan region. When the resorts transition to summer they offer a new array of exciting warm-weather adventures. Among these, hiking is one of the many adventures that can be enjoyed on these famous mountains. From easy to challenging hikes, and opportunity for trail running, these mountains have it all. Next time you’re looking to change up your hiking scenery try hiking these mountain resorts.
Much of the trails start from the village and allow you to challenge yourself to make it to the top, or take the chair lift or gondola up, and start mid-mountain. Just like in the winter, some of the mountains require day-passes to use their trails and facilities, so know before you go and check the mountain resort’s website. If you like these mountain resorts in the winter, you’ll love them in the summer!
Photo by: Tourism Sun Peaks/Kelly Funk
Sun Peaks
Starting in the South Thompson Valley just 45 minutes North of Kamloops, is Sun Peaks (55.7 km/34.6mi). With 17 designated hiking trails, and a wide range of difficulty, there’s a hike for everyone. The variety of hikes offered at Sun Peaks means every trip to the mountain allows for a fresh, new adventure, never seen before.
Photo by: Tourism Sun Peaks/Kelly Funk
What to expect while hiking Sun Peaks:
Sun Peaks stands proudly at an elevation of 6,000 ft (1,828 m) above sea level. A journey to its summit leads to the breathtaking Tod Lake, a tranquil lake nestled atop the peaks. During the much-celebrated Alpine Blossom Season , a time cherished by all who hike, the landscape transforms into a vivid wildflower meadow. Exploring the trails during this season is a favorite for visitors – Learn more about the flowers with Sun Peaks' comprehensive wildflower guide. This resource enriches your hikes by unraveling the identity of the flora and fauna that lines the paths as you hike. Sun Peaks also has an abundance of birds and wildlife. As you embark on your hike, your senses will be constantly engaged, drawn in by the song birds and the potential spotting of wildlife, as well as flowers around every corner.
Click to Download Map
Summer Season at Sun Peaks
June 16 to September 4, 2023 Daily, 10:00am to 7:00pm
September 5 to 24, 2023 Daily, 10:00am to 5:00pm
SilverStar Mountain Resort
Heading to the North Okanagan, 25 minutes Northeast of Vernon (23.6km/14.67mi), is SilverStar Mountain Resort. SilverStar is a family and pet friendly spot – Welcoming dogs on every hiking trail. Try the express Gondola or the hike up to the summit all summer. You can hike straight from the village or take the Gondola, and walk down on the trails.
Photo by: @jlab55
What to expect while hiking SilverStar:
SilverStar offers a captivating panorama view of the vistas that make up the Monashee Mountain Range and the Okanagan Valley. The trails, ranging from casual strolls to longer journeys, open up these vistas at every step. Embark on looped hikes, each bend revealing new landscapes, or opt for unidirectional trails and take the chairlift back to the start. A worthwhile recommendation is venturing on the Ridge Walk, where a conveniently placed bench atop the trail invites you to pause and take in the breathtaking scenery (or a well-deserved break from hiking). With an abundance of diverse hiking options to choose from, SilverStar ensures that your curiosity will remain sparked throughout the entirety of your hike.
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You must have a valid ticket to be on the mountain for hiking. These hiking tickets are complimentary! However, they do not grant lift access.
Summer Season at SilverStar
June 23rd to September 4th 2023 Daily, 9:30am to 5:30pm
Followed by Weekends Only September 9th to 10th, and September 16 to 17th.
Big White Ski Resort
On the way to Boundary Country, 1 hour outside of Kelowna (61.9km/38.46mi), is Big White Ski Resort. Big White is another excellent option for dog-friendly hiking. You can even bring your four legged friend on the chairlifts, just keep them on leash at all times.
Tip: follow the Inukshuks along the trails to help keep you on the right track!
Photo by: @adventurewithkayli
What to expect while hiking Big White:
Big White offers an array of trails that cater to individuals of all ages, making it an ideal destination for the entire family. The diverse range of hiking grades offers options for leisurely strolls or the chance to conquer the summit at an impressive 7600 ft (2316 m). The convenience of a chairlift and gondola adds the choice for hikers to explore different pathways to the summit and discover new trails along the way. Lake lookouts and picnic tables allow for a chance to relax, and restrooms near the peak ensure a comfortable journey on this mountain. Try the Rhonda Lake Trail for a lake lookout unique to the summer; this trail and lake is entirely hidden by snow in the winter!
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Hiking tickets complimentary! However, do sign this waver before your ascend
Summer Season at Big White
June 29th to September 4th, 2023 Daily, 10:00am to 4:00pm
Baldy Mountain Resort
The South Okanagan is home to Baldy Mountain Resort, 45 minutes outside of Oliver (37.2km/23.12mi). The summer of 2023 Mt Baldy is open for its first summer season, and they can't wait to welcome summer hikers. With ten trails to kick off the season, Mt Baldy is ready for people to come see what they have to offer in the summer.
Photo by: @jlab55
What to expect while hiking Mt Baldy:
This summit is in the Okanagan Highlands, so Mt Baldy is surrounded by old growth forest and multiple viewpoints for all levels of hikers to enjoy. There’s chances to see wildlife from a distance, as well as smell the alpine flowers as you hike and listen to the surrounding birds. Take a pit stop at one of the many picnic benches or enjoy lunch at the village.
Click to Download Map
Purchase a lift ticket before you go, or buy one at the guest service once you arrive.
Summer Season at Baldy Mountain
From 11:00am to 4:00pm, Saturday and Sunday and select holiday Fridays and Mondays.
The last weekend of Summer operations is September 2nd and 3rd.
The Thompson Okanagan mountain resorts offer natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and seasonal charm. Always stay on marked trails to ensure the preservation of the flora and fauna of the mountains, and stay bear aware. Whether you're seeking panoramic views and wildflowers, family-friendly trails, or the excitement of exploring a new summer hiking destination, these resorts are calling you to the great outdoors. So, get your hiking boots, get ready for crisp mountain air, and set out on an unforgettable journey through these trails.
Written by Caroline Peterson
A BC local who went from the lower mainland to the Okanagan. A student with a passion for tourism, she aims to highlight the Thompson Okanagan experience with a fresh, adventurous perspective.
Exploring Vernon in the Winter
With a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, a visit to Vernon is a great way to spend a winter weekend.
A Mix of Indoor & Outdoor Activities Makes Vernon a Great Place to Visit in the Snowy Season
While the Okanagan is beautiful in all seasons, the short days of winter, along with the occasional cloud inversion, can have a person searching for blue skies, or a fun indoor activity! Fortunately, if you are in the Vernon area, there are plenty of things to do to escape a grey, chilly day!
One of our favourite things to do in Vernon is head to the Okanagan Science Centre. The Science Centre is a great place to bring kids, allowing them to learn and blow off some steam. With multiple themed rooms, rotating exhibits and workshops, there are endless ways to enjoy the Centre. We love letting the kids loose in the activity room, whether it’s climbing the rock wall or seeing how far they can jump (in comparison to different animals) there’s lots for them to do! It’s also an affordable family activity.
Locals tip - If you purchase a season’s pass, you can use it at almost any Science Centre across North America, including Science World in Vancouver! Or, if you’re travelling from Vancouver or Edmonton and have passes to Science World, you can use them here!
Another great indoor activity is a visit to one of the breweries, wineries or cideries. One of our favorite spots to stop is BX Press Cidery on East Vernon Rd. It’s a cozy tasting room with tons of local art and goodies to shop for. The staff are super accommodating and excited to give you a history lesson on the cidery and the region it lives in. BX Press does their best to keep all the ingredients local, seasonal and creative. I recommend the Hostler for a nice refreshing sip - but try them all!
For the weekend warriors, looking to get some blue sky in their day, there is often a wonderful escape. Head up the hill, get above the clouds and enjoy the bluebird skies and snowy hills of Silverstar Mountain Resort. Only a 25-30 minute drive from downtown Vernon, this local gem is a great place to take a family. With affordable prices and plenty of non-skiing options, Silverstar a great choice. We love taking the kids for a skate or a zip on the tubes at Tube Town. There are great places to eat or to have a hot chocolate by a fire when you’re done flying down the hills. There is also a great shuttle service from lower parking lots, ensuring you will be able to get to the Village quickly, as well as Tube Town and Brewer’s Pond.
While you’re in the area, a stop at the Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre is a must. With 105km of beautifully groomed trails, it’s a paradise for anyone who likes to cross country ski, or snowshoe. You can rent gear right there, as well as take part in regularly scheduled lessons and workshops. Keep an eye out for wildlife and some stunning sunsets while you’re in the area. Yearly memberships are a great way to get your family out, but if you’re in town for a brief visit, a day pass is great way to go, and very affordable.
Be sure to catch at least one day of the Vernon Winter Carnival. This unique 10-day festival runs February 1 - 10 this year and has been serving the North Okanagan for over 50 years. This year’s theme is “A Pirate’s Carnival,” and will feature a large Chili Cookoff and the 10th annual Winter Carnival Blues Festival, as well as the ever-popular hot air balloons flying high above Vernon. There’s no question that regardless of your age, you’ll find something to enjoy. The energy is contagious, the joy is infectious and the community coming together is inspiring. Tickets for the big events are on sale here.
For more information and to plan your next trip to Vernon visit: TourismVernon.com.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Matt Ferguson is a BC born and raised photographer, currently living in Kelowna. When his camera isn't strapped to him, you can usually find him at the beach with his family, skipping rocks or if it's cold enough, strapping on some skates and hitting a frozen pond.
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