Sun Peaks Guide: Best Time to Visit, Hikes & Itinerary

Sun Peaks feels less like a typical North American ski resort and more like a hidden European hamlet transplanted into the heart of British Columbia. As the second-largest ski area in Canada, it offers a massive 4,270 acres of terrain, yet the village itself remains intimate, walkable, and refreshingly unpretentious. The layout is arguably the best in the country; nearly every hotel, shop, and restaurant is ski-in/ski-out, meaning you can park your car upon arrival and not touch it again until you leave.

Surrounded by three distinct mountains, Tod, Sundance, and Morrisey, the valley enjoys a unique microclimate. While the coast gets wet snow and the Rockies get extreme cold, Sun Peaks sits in the ‘Goldilocks’ zone of the BC Interior, often blessed with dry, light powder and temperatures that are crisp but manageable. Whether you are carving groomers in January or hiking through waist-high wildflowers in July, the pace of life here invites you to slow down and breathe the mountain air.

A Legacy of Alpine Excellence

Sun Peaks owes much of its spirit to Nancy Greene Raine, Canada’s Female Athlete of the 20th Century and an Olympic gold medalist. She and her husband Al Raine were instrumental in the resort’s development, and their influence is felt everywhere, from the thoughtfully designed village layout to the welcoming community vibe. It is not uncommon to see Nancy herself leading free ski tours in the morning, sharing stories of the area’s history and her Olympic days with visitors.

Culturally, the area is situated on the unceded traditional territory of the Secwépemc people. The resort works closely with the Little Shuswap Lake Band, and you can find influences of this partnership in the art around the village and the resort’s commitment to land stewardship. The vibe here is distinctly ‘Interior BC’, friendly, rugged, and deeply connected to the landscape.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Top of the World - Accessible via the Crystal Chair, this viewpoint offers 360-degree panoramas of the Shuswap Highlands. In winter, it is the start of the famous ‘5 Mile’ run; in summer, it is the heart of the wildflower meadows. (Lift ticket required).

The Covered Bridge - The visual anchor of the village, this timber-framed bridge connects the main village to the Mt. Morrisey base. It is the most photographed spot in town and marks the start of the Nordic trail network. (Located in village centre, free).

McGillivray Lake - A pristine mountain lake located 6 km from the village. It serves as a Nordic skiing destination in winter and a canoeing haven in summer. A warming hut is available for skiers. (Free access, rentals extra).

Sun Peaks Golf Course - With the 16th hole sitting at 1,200 metres above sea level, this is BC’s highest golf course. The thin air adds yardage to your drive, and the mountain views are constant companions. (Prices vary by season, typically $60-$100 CAD).

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Sun Peaks is remarkably stress-free compared to other major resorts. The nearest airport is Kamloops (YKA), just a 45-minute drive or shuttle ride away. If you are driving from Vancouver, expect a scenic 4.5-hour journey via the Coquihalla Highway. Winter tires are mandatory on highways from October 1st to April 30th, so ensure your rental car is equipped if driving yourself.

Pack layers, regardless of the season. The interior climate is dry, meaning temperatures can drop significantly once the sun goes down. In winter, a quality base layer is essential. In summer, bring a light jacket for the evenings. The village is compact and pedestrian-only, so comfortable walking boots with good grip are a must for navigating the snowy strolls.

Sun Peaks delivers a quintessential Canadian mountain experience without the overwhelming crowds found elsewhere. Whether you are chasing the ‘champagne powder’ that made the interior famous or looking for a peaceful summer golf getaway, this alpine community welcomes you with open arms and spectacular views.