Sun Peaks in British Columbia (or “BC” as its commonly known) is Western Canada’s second largest ski area with a vast 1,728 hectares of skiable terrain.
But it’s still not that well known compared to some of the country’s other big ski areas, which has a happy result for those lucky enough to be there – empty slopes! There’s very rarely a time when skiers and riders need to stand in a lift queue; you just ski straight on to the next chair back up, skiing lap after lap.
Sun Peaks is home to a welcoming, intimate community that never fails to make you feel like you are a part of it, even though you’re just visiting for a week or two.
Perhaps it’s because there are not the big crowds you can get in other large resorts; there is instead an intimate, friendly feel and you soon feel at home. When you’re in Sun Peaks, there’s a sense of belonging that follows you wherever you are.
It might also be because of how the resort has been cleverly designed, as a pedestrian-only, ski-through village right at the heart of the ski area, so you have lifts up to the slopes all around.
Many of the hotels and other accommodation options can be found in the centre of the village. Guests can strap on their skis in their hotel and cruise through the village right to the lift.
There are ski runs for all abilities here spread across the three interconnected mountains of Sundance Peak, Mt Morrisey and Mt Tod. They range from superb beginner terrain down by the village to great freeriding terrain, for example off the Crystal Chair on Mt Tod. In between, there are many miles of corduroy groomers, deep steeps or glade zones (tree skiing but with the trees thinned out).
Being in the interior of BC, Sun Peaks is also known for its unbeatable snow conditions with an annual average of 6m of light, fluffy champagne snowfall. Powder is a common occurrence here, and the next pow days are always just around the corner.
Back in the village, everything in Sun Peaks is within walking distance – once here, you can ditch the rental car and strap on your skis.
There’s a vibrant feel and a choice of more than 40 restaurants, shops and cafés, so plenty of shopping or dining choices along with welcoming bars and cafés to enjoy when you’re not out in the snow.
One favourite activity is the Alpine Fondue and Starlight Descent in which you board the Sunburst Express chairlift after the ski slopes have closed and ride up to the Sunburst Bar and Eatery to take in the view of twinkling lights below. Enjoy a Swiss-style fondue before skiing down the freshly groomed 5 Miles run wearing a head torch, a guide leading the way. It’s a magical experience.
