A view of Nelson at dusk from across Kootenay Lake A view of Nelson at dusk from across Kootenay Lake 5 Ways to Spend 48 Hours in Kamloops This Winter
Written by: Destination British Columbia | November 13, 2023
There’s plenty to do in Kamloops at any time of year, but there’s something special about a Kamloops winter. The sagebrush hills are blanketed with snow, winter sports are on offer in and around the city, and indoor pursuits come with an extra feeling of coziness. Here are five not-to-be-missed experiences for your next winter getaway to Kamloops.
Nordic skiing at Stake Lake | Tamra Jaeger Nordic Skiing at Stake Lake
Stake Lake, home of the Overlander Ski Club, is located between Kamloops and Logan Lake off the Coquihalla Highway. You can explore 60 km of groomed trails here, including 5 km of dog trails open to you and your furry friend. There is a lit trail around the lake for night skiing, and the lodge is available for when you need to warm up. More comfortable on snowshoes than on skis? Set out along 20 km of snowshoe trails.
Harper Mountain | Dylan Sherrard Downhill Skiing and Boarding
Downhill enthusiasts have choices in Kamloops. If you’re looking for an affordable hidden gem, look no further than Harper Mountain. Check out the terrain park, go snowshoeing with your pup, or take the kids to the tube park. For adventure after the sun goes down, the mountain offers night skiing, too.
To experience one of the province’s major resorts, head northeast to Sun Peaks, and hour’s drive from Kamloops. This family-friendly destination offers downhill, cross-country, dog sledding, snowshoeing, and sleigh riding, all close to the resort’s ski-in/ski-out, European-style village. Sun Peaks boasts lots of great dining options, and hosts annual food and wine festivals.
BC Wildlife Park | Peter Olsen The BC Wildlife Park
The BC Wildlife Park is a great place to learn about more than 65 of the species that live in the province. Ride the Wildlife Express Miniature Train and wander around the park’s 40+ hectares to view wolves, cougars, bison, moose, bighorn sheep, birds of prey, reptiles, and even a rare white Kermode bear. Visit between mid-December and early January to see the annual Wildlights display, when the park is adorned with more than a million bulbs and other holiday decorations.
Sagebrush Theatre | Dylan Sherrard Arts & Culture
You’ll likely find more cultural attractions and activities than you expect in Kamloops, where the arts community is very active. Take in the Kamloops Art Gallery‘s current exhibition, then head outside for a crisp walk among the 27 murals that make up the Back Alley Art Gallery. Get to know the stories of the local Indigenous population, the Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc, and visit the moving Secwe̓pemc Museum and Heritage Park to learn about the oral history and the legends of the Secwe̓pemc people.
Visit the Kamloops Heritage Railway to tour antique rolling stock, and peruse some of the more than 20,000 artifacts housed at the Kamloops Museum & Archives. In the evening, enjoy a performance by the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra, or a play or musical presented by the renowned Western Canada Theatre.
Iron Road Brewing | Destination BC/Jordan Dyck Food & Drink
A big part of any travel experience is enjoying the local cuisine, and Kamloops is no exception. The city has an impressive dining scene that includes wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries, as well as an eclectic mix of restaurant options. Whether you’re in need of a caffeine fix, you want to eat local, or you’re indulging in an upscale night out—or all three—you’ll find what you’re looking for and much, much more.
For a unique experience, book your own personal Igloo at ROMEOs Kitchen + Spirits. They provide the blankets and the fireplace, you bring up to five friends. You’ll also want to check out the Yew Street Food Hall, where 10 artisanal food and drink vendors have joined forces to provide a fun and memorable meal. And if you still have room, stop by local institution the Noble Pig and sample their newly released winter brews. Don’t leave without trying the Crispy Pickles.
Plan Your Route
Check Drive BC for the latest information on road closures around the province.
BC Parks
Learn about hiking and biking trails, provincial campgrounds, park closures, and more.
Accommodations in Kamloops
Credit: Destination BC | Abby Cooper