Embrace the Chill: Kelowna's Winter Activities

Embrace the Chill: Kelowna's Winter Activities 

One of the top reasons we hear from our clients relocating to the Okanagan from other provinces is that Kelowna truly is a 4 season playground so we want to share with you some of our favourite things to do this winter.

Skiing And Snowboarding

We are so fortunate to be 45 minutes away from one of Canada’s largest ski in- ski out resorts, Big White. Big White has been a family run operation since 1963 and is highly cherished by residents and visitors of the Okanagan. With 16 chair lifts, over 2,700 acres of champagne powder, and a variety of terrain for all ages and experience  levels. Big White is a winter paradise for the entire family! This mountain resort is home to a variety of other activities including snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, snowmobiling, nordic skiing and more. Relax and warm up throughout your day at a large variety of restaurants and bars, or ski into one of many available accommodation rentals to kick your feet up! 

Snowshoeing

The Okanagan Valley is a beautiful place to explore in the winter, and the best way to do so is to truly immerse yourself in the surroundings. Perched in the mountain ridges about 20 minutes east of downtown lies Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club. This locally run club has been operating since 1977 and is home to 75 km of wooded trails, rustic cabin facilities and state of the art grooming equipment. Kelowna Nordic Club takes pride in offering well marked trails, and perfectly groomed terrain for all levels. 

Ice Skating 

Immersed in the heart of downtown Kelowna lies Stuart Park, a beautifully lit up ice skating rink located just off the lakefront boardwalk! This local family favorite is open December- February and offers free fun for the whole fam! Skate rentals are always available, bonfires are lit to cozy up around, all you have to do is come down and lace up. 

Wine Tasting

The Okanagan is known for being the wine capital of Canada, however many people think that wine sippin’ season is only three months long. But to many's surprise, our incredible wine season thrives all winter long! Kelowna is home to several wineries that offer tastings and tours throughout the snowy months. Winter wine tasting happens to be a favorite for both locals and those visiting the area. There are less crowds, and the vineyards are breathtaking in a crisp, snowy wonderland. We suggest grabbing a glass of your favorite, and soaking in the sights surrounding you. 

Hiking

Hiking in the winter can be a unique, stunning, and rewarding experience. A cool thing about Kelowna is you can hop in the car and head in any direction and land yourself at the foot of a towering mountain to climb. The colder temperatures and snow-covered trails can make for a peaceful and serene setting, with fewer crowds and a chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. A few favorites include Knox Mountain Park in north downtown, and Mount Boucherie in West Kelowna. We also suggest checking out The Kettle Valley Railway, Myra Canyon, and Bear Creek Provincial Park. Winter hiking in the Okanagan offers a different perspective of the local landscape, as the snow transforms familiar trails into a winter wonderland.

These are just a few of the many incredible activities that we highly suggest experiencing this winter! No matter what your interests are, Kelowna has something to offer everyone during the chilly months. Whether you are looking to hit the mountain for some fresh powder, sip on your favorite glass of red, or simply get away for some new scenery, we suggest you do it all here!