March 23, 2026 by Jada Glen

Powder, Pints & Skates: A Kamloops Winter Escape

Kenna Cartwright Nature Park
Bryan Peters Photography

Kamloops is the kind of winter destination that just works. Everything is close, the pace is relaxed, and the experiences are varied enough to appeal to a wide range of travellers. Visitors can ski in the morning, skate along the river in the afternoon, and end the day at a live hockey game—all without long transfers or complicated logistics.

This two-day itinerary blends alpine highlights, soft adventure, and classic Canadian winter moments into one seamless experience.

Day 1: Alpine Thrills & Downtown Energy

Morning: Skiing at Sun Peaks Resort

Kick things off with a 45-minute drive to Sun Peaks Resort, Canada’s second-largest ski area.

With three mountains to explore, Sun Peaks offers wide-open terrain, beautifully groomed runs, and a village that’s easy to navigate. It’s particularly appealing for international visitors thanks to its approachable layout, meaning less time navigating, more time skiing. Whether guests are beginners or confident skiers, it delivers a full alpine experience without the overwhelm of larger resorts.

Afternoon: Tubing (or Skiing) at Harper Mountain

On the way back into Kamloops, switch gears with a stop at Harper Mountain, just 20 minutes from downtown.

This is where things get playful. Harper’s tube park is all about fast-paced fun; guests can race down groomed lanes, spin, slide, and laugh their way through multiple runs. It’s an easy win for families and groups, and a great way to round out a ski day with something more relaxed and social.

For those who want to stay on skis, Harper also offers a welcoming, local hill experience with minimal crowds, and even night skiing for those looking to extend their time on the snow.

Late Afternoon: Riverside Park Skating Loop

Back in downtown Kamloops, ease into the evening at the Riverside Park skating loop.

Set right along the Thompson River, this scenic loop offers a laid-back skating experience surrounded by trees and open sky. Rentals are available on site, making it simple for visitors to join in.

Between laps, guests can warm up by the fire pits, sip hot chocolate, and take in the atmosphere. As the lights come on and the temperature drops, it transforms into a cozy, quintessential Canadian winter scene.

Evening: Blazers Hockey Game + Downtown Dining

Cap off the day with a Kamloops Blazers hockey game at the Sandman Centre.

This is Canadian culture in real time, fast, physical, and full of energy. The crowd is engaged, the atmosphere is lively, and it’s an experience that resonates even with visitors who’ve never watched hockey before. Suggest grabbing a local craft beer and settling in, it’s all part of the experience.

After the game, everything is within walking distance, making it easy to continue the evening at one of downtown’s restaurants or casual spots.

Day 2: Soft Adventure, Nordic Skiing & Local Flavour

Morning: Guided Snowshoeing with Adventuring Into Life

Start the day at a slower pace with a guided snowshoe tour through Kamloops’ winter landscapes.

Adventuring Into Life offers fully guided experiences that combine light activity with local knowledge. Guests can explore quiet trails, take in sweeping views, and enjoy a more intimate connection with the landscape. With equipment included and routes suited to different ability levels, it’s an easy and accessible addition to any itinerary.

Midday: Cross-Country Skiing at Stake Lake

Continue the outdoor experience with a visit to the Overlander Ski Club at Stake Lake, located just outside the city.

This well-developed Nordic area features kilometres of groomed trails winding through snow-covered forest. It’s peaceful, scenic, and offers a completely different rhythm from alpine skiing—perfect for travellers looking to mix in a more relaxed, endurance-style activity.

Afternoon: Kamloops Christmas Market & Downtown Exploration

Head back into downtown Kamloops for a more relaxed afternoon.

Early in the holiday season, the Kamloops Christmas Market transforms Riverside Park into a festive hub filled with wooden vendor stalls, local artisans, seasonal treats, and live entertainment. It’s a warm, inviting space that encourages visitors to slow down, browse, and soak in the atmosphere.

Outside of market dates, this time can easily be spent exploring the compact downtown; popping into local shops, grabbing a coffee, or enjoying the riverfront setting.

Late Afternoon / Evening: Brewery Tour with Tastefull Excursions

Wrap up the itinerary with a guided brewery tour with Tastefull Excursions.

This curated experience takes guests to a selection of Kamloops’ craft breweries, with transportation included. It’s a relaxed, social way to explore the local beer scene—sampling a range of flavours while learning about the people and stories behind each stop.

It’s also a natural fit to end the trip: easy, enjoyable, and distinctly local.

Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park
Dylan Sherrard

Why Kamloops Works for Winter

Kamloops stands out as a winter destination that delivers variety without complexity.

Short drive times mean more time experiencing and less time in transit. The mix of activities, from skiing and tubing to skating, snowshoeing, hockey, and craft beer all create a well-rounded itinerary that appeals to a wide range of travellers.

It’s a destination where winter feels accessible, authentic, and genuinely fun.

Author: Jada Glen

Jada is your go-to for support with destination development and travel trade initiatives ensuring seamless operations and exceptional experiences.