Winter Biking in Kamloops: Your Guide to Fat Biking in the Snow
Kamloops, BC
Sean Jenkins
Who says biking season ends when the snow flies? Kamloops is known as the birthplace of freeride mountain biking, and our semi-arid climate makes it easy to keep riding all year. When the trails turn white, it's time to swap your summer whip for something with a little more tire.
Welcome to winter biking in Kamloops. Picture quiet forest singletrack, crisp air, wide-open views of the Thompson Valley and the satisfying crunch of fresh snow under your wheels. Whether you're a local rider looking to keep your legs spinning through the off-season or a visitor planning a winter getaway, this guide covers where to ride, how to rent a fat bike, what to wear and how to make a day of it.
What is fat biking?
Think of a fat bike as the monster truck of mountain bikes. These bikes roll on extra-wide tires that run at low pressure, so they float on top of snow instead of sinking in. The wide footprint gives you more traction and stability on snowy, icy and uneven trails, which makes winter riding surprisingly approachable.
Fat biking is also a great way to explore. You can cover a lot more ground on two wheels than you can on foot or snowshoes in the same amount of time, and when you do take a tumble, the snow makes for a much softer landing. Expect a few laughs along the way.
Where to go winter biking in Kamloops
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Sean Jenkins
Kamloops has more than 260 bike trails and a passionate trail-building community, and a few of our favourite riding areas stay open for business all winter long. Find more on our winter biking page, and check Trailforks for current trail conditions before you head out.
Isobel Lake Winter Recreational Trails
Isobel Lake Recreation Site
Mary Putnam
For the full fat biking experience, head to Isobel Lake, about 17 km northwest of Kamloops. Here you'll find more than 30 km of machine-groomed singletrack winding through the forest, cared for by a small group of dedicated local volunteers. Groomed trails mean a firmer, faster ride, so it's the perfect place to try fat biking for the first time.
The trails are free to ride, so show some love to the people who keep them in great shape by dropping a donation at the Bicycle Café. Before you go, check the Isobel Lake fat bike Facebook page for grooming updates and recommended tire pressure.
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Sean Jenkins
Just minutes from downtown, Kenna Cartwright Nature Park offers 40 km of natural trails within city limits, with sweeping views of the Thompson Valley from the top. The trails here aren't groomed, so you'll be riding on fresh or packed snow. That makes it a fun challenge for more experienced riders and an easy after-work spin when you don't want to drive far.
These are multi-use trails, so keep an eye out for hikers, snowshoers and dogs, and share the path with a friendly hello.
Sun Peaks Resort
Make a mountain getaway of it at Sun Peaks Resort, 45 minutes north of Kamloops. This season, fat bike trails at Sun Peaks run from mid-December 2026 to late March 2027, daily from 8:15 am to 4:15 pm whenever temperatures stay below 0°C. Rentals are available at the resort.
The scenic McGillivray Lake Loop shares Nordic trails with skiers and requires a trail ticket, which you can buy online or in the village. The Valley Trail and Family Man Loop are free to ride. Check Sun Peaks Resort for this season's conditions and trail map.
Do you need a special bike for winter biking?
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Seab Jenkins
A fat bike is the way to go. Look for tires at least 3.8 inches wide that can run at a low pressure, around 8 PSI or less. Low pressure gives the tire a bigger footprint on the snow, which means better grip and more float. On groomed trails, check the local trail report for the recommended pressure, since riding too firm can leave ruts that damage the trail for everyone.
If you're riding after the sun goes down (and in a Kamloops winter, that's pretty early), add a good bike light so you can keep riding on weeknights too.
Fat bike rentals in Kamloops
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Sean Jenkins
Isobel Lake Recreation Site
Mary Putnam
Don't have a fat bike of your own? No problem. Rent one and see what all the fuss is about before you buy.
District Bicycle Co.: This local Kamloops bike shop rents fat bikes in both regular and e-bike versions, so you can choose your own adventure (or get a little boost on the climbs). Call ahead to check availability and current rates.
Sun Peaks Resort: Fat bike rentals are available at the resort when the fat bike trails are open.
Rentals can book up on sunny weekends, so reserve your bike early, especially if you're riding with a group.
What to wear fat biking
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Sean Jenkins
Layers are your best friend. Fat biking is a workout, so you'll warm up quickly on the climbs and cool down fast on the descents.
Base layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base to keep sweat off your skin.
Outer layer: Add a wind- and waterproof jacket and pants to block the chill and the snow.
Hands and feet: Warm gloves or pogies and insulated footwear or shoe covers are a must. Nothing takes the fun out of a ride like cold fingers and toes.
Extras: A thin toque or headband under your helmet, a buff for your neck and a pair of goggles or glasses for snowy days.
Pack water, a snack and an extra layer for when you stop to take in the view.
Winter riding tips + trail etiquette
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Sean Jenkins
Ride when the trails are firm. If your tire sinks more than an inch or leaves a deep rut, the snow is too soft. Come back when it firms up so the trails stay in great shape for everyone.
Check conditions first. Look at the trail reports and the weather before you head out, and let someone know your plans. Some areas have limited cell service.
Be AdventureSmart. Bring the essentials, dress for the conditions and turn around if conditions change.
Share the trail. Yield to other trail users and keep your speed in check on multi-use trails.
Embrace the fall. You will probably tip over at some point. Get back up, laugh it off and keep pedalling.
Make a day of it
Noble Pig Brewhouse
Candace Hansma
The best part of a winter ride? Warming up afterward. Bring a friend (or your favourite riding partner) and plan a little après. Trade your helmet for a toque at one of Kamloops' craft breweries, where a cold pint and something hot to eat taste even better after a day on the trails. Find more ideas in our guide to après spots in Kamloops.
Looking to fill the rest of your trip? Pair your ride with skiing at Sun Peaks or Harper Mountain, a skate at the Riverside Park outdoor rink or a cozy dinner downtown. See our top 10 things to do this winter in Kamloops for more.
Winter biking in Kamloops FAQs
Keep us in the 'Loop!
Never miss a winter moment. Sign up for our monthly newsletter for seasonal events, trail news and trip ideas. Then show us your snowiest rides by tagging @tourismkamloops and using #ExploreKamloops.
