Things to Do in Kelowna in Winter: A Friendly Guide to Winter Activities in Kelowna

Looking for a winter wonderland to explore? Look no further than Kelowna in Winter. This beautiful city, located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, is the perfect place to visit during the colder months. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and skating, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay.

If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, you’ll love hitting the slopes at Big White Ski Resort. With over 118 designated trails and a whopping 18% of the terrain dedicated to beginner runs, there’s something for everyone. But Kelowna in Winter isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding. You can also try your hand at snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or even dog sledding for an unforgettable adventure.

But Kelowna in Winter offers more than just outdoor activities. You can also explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Take in a show at the Kelowna Community Theatre or visit one of the many art galleries and museums in the area. And don’t forget to indulge in some of the local cuisine while you’re here. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, there’s something to satisfy every taste bud.

Read More: First Time Traveler Tips: Essential Advice for Your First Adventure.

Skiing and Snowboarding Adventures

If you’re looking for a thrilling winter adventure, Kelowna has got you covered with two amazing ski resorts: Big White Ski Resort and SilverStar Mountain Resort.

Big White Ski Resort

Big White Ski Resort is the perfect place for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts of all levels. With over 118 runs, 16 lifts, and an average of 750cm of annual snowfall, Kelowna in Winter offers something for everyone looking for the ultimate cold-weather adventure.

If you’re a beginner, you can start with some of the easier runs such as Easy Street or Hummingbird. For intermediate skiers, runs like Serwa’s and Gem Lake are perfect. And for the advanced skiers, there’s nothing better than a challenging run like Cliffhanger. No matter your skill level, Kelowna in Winter provides excellent conditions for all types of skiers and snowboarders.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, Big White also offers a range of other winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing. You can also take a ride on the Big White Express, a scenic gondola that offers breathtaking views of the Okanagan Valley. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying the many other seasonal activities, Kelowna in Winter is the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway.

SilverStar Mountain Resort

SilverStar Mountain Resort is another popular ski resort in Kelowna in Winter. With over 132 runs, 12 lifts, and an average of 700cm of annual snowfall, SilverStar is a great place for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

For beginners, the best runs to start with are Silver Queen or Comet. Intermediate skiers can enjoy runs like Home Run or Pinheads. And for the advanced skiers, there’s nothing better than a challenging run like Double Diamond or Attridge. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced skier, Kelowna in Winter offers a fantastic variety of slopes and trails.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, SilverStar also offers a range of other winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking. You can also take a ride on the Gondola that offers breathtaking views of the Monashee Mountains. No matter your winter adventure preference, Kelowna in Winter has something exciting to offer.

Both Big White Ski Resort and SilverStar Mountain Resort offer ski and snowboard lessons for beginners. They also have rental shops where you can rent all the necessary equipment. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer, you’re sure to have a great time on the slopes while experiencing the best of Kelowna in Winter.

Winter Wine Tours

Kelowna is known for its wine, and winter is the perfect time to explore the region’s wineries. There are several wine tours available that will take you to some of the best wineries in the area. Here are two popular options:

West Kelowna Wine Trail

The West Kelowna Wine Trail is a great option for those who want to explore wineries on the west side of Okanagan Lake. This trail includes several award-winning wineries that offer a variety of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. Some of the wineries on this trail include Mission Hill Family Estate, Quails’ Gate Winery, and Mt. Boucherie Estate Winery.

Many wine tour companies offer tours of the West Kelowna Wine Trail, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery while someone else does the driving. Most tours include tastings at several wineries, and some even include lunch or snacks.

Kelowna’s Southeast Bench

If you’re looking for a wine tour that explores the southeast side of Kelowna in Winter, the Southeast Bench is a great option. This area is home to several boutique wineries that offer unique and delicious wines. Some of the wineries on this trail include Summerhill Pyramid Winery, CedarCreek Estate Winery, and Tantalus Vineyards.

Like the West Kelowna Wine Trail, many wine tour companies offer tours of the Southeast Bench. These tours typically include tastings at several wineries, as well as transportation to and from your hotel or other meeting point. Exploring Kelowna in Winter through a guided wine tour is a fantastic way to experience the region’s renowned wineries while enjoying the stunning snow-covered landscapes.

No matter which wine tour you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the wineries of Kelowna in Winter. Just be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can be chilly during the winter months.

Indoor Activities

When the weather outside is too chilly, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained in Kelowna. From museums to art galleries to spa days, there’s something for everyone.

Kelowna Museums

Kelowna is home to several museums that offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. The Okanagan Heritage Museum is a great place to start. Here, you can learn about the people and events that shaped the Okanagan Valley, from the First Nations to the gold rush to the present day. The museum also has a collection of over 7,000 objects, including photographs, artifacts, and documents.

Another must-visit museum is the BC Wine Museum & VQA Wine Shop. Here, you can learn about the history of wine in British Columbia and the unique terroir of the Okanagan Valley. The museum also has a tasting room where you can sample some of the region’s best wines.

Art Galleries

Kelowna has a thriving arts scene, and there are several galleries in the city where you can view and purchase works by local artists. The Kelowna Art Gallery is the largest public art gallery in the region, with over 20 exhibitions each year. The gallery showcases a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and video.

Another great gallery to check out is the Hambleton Galleries, which has been showcasing Canadian art since 1962. The gallery has a collection of over 1,000 works, including pieces by famous artists like Lawren Harris and Emily Carr.

Spa Days

If you’re looking for some relaxation and pampering, there are several spas in Kelowna where you can unwind. One of the most popular is the Beyond Wrapture Day Spa, which offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. The spa also has a steam room and a hot tub, so you can fully relax and rejuvenate.

Another great option is the Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa, which offers a range of spa treatments as well as access to the resort’s sauna, steam room, and indoor and outdoor pools. The spa also has a unique crystal-shaped steam room, which is said to have healing properties.

Outdoor Excursions

Kelowna in winter is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from snowshoeing to ice skating. Here are two great options to consider:

Snowshoeing Trails

If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to explore the beautiful winter scenery, snowshoeing is a great option. Kelowna in Winter offers several trails that are perfect for snowshoeing, including the Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park and the Myra Canyon Trestles.

The Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park has a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult. The trails wind through beautiful forests and offer stunning views of Okanagan Lake, making it a fantastic way to experience Kelowna in Winter. The Myra Canyon Trestles, on the other hand, offer a unique snowshoeing experience. The trail takes you across a series of old railway trestles, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and adding to the charm of Kelowna in Winter.

Ice Skating at Stuart Park

Looking for a fun and family-friendly activity? Head to Stuart Park for some ice skating. The park has a large outdoor rink that is open to the public. The rink is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including views of the mountains and Okanagan Lake.

If you don’t have your own skates, don’t worry. Skates can be rented on-site, and there are plenty of benches and warming huts to take a break in between laps around the rink. The rink is open daily, and admission is free.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful snowshoeing adventure or a fun day of ice skating, Kelowna has plenty of outdoor excursions to keep you entertained during the winter months.