Are you a four-seasons fun seeker? Then you should explore winter in the Similkameen Valley! From back-country skiing to winter winery gatherings, there’s a unique experience waiting for you. Here are just a few of the activities you can enjoy… to find out more, explore our website.
5 Great Winter Adventures To Try In The Similkameen
It doesn’t matter if you’re a weekend warrior, an experienced back-country explorer, or a family looking for something everyone can enjoy. There’s a winter adventure waiting for you here in the valley.
Here are five of our favourites:
1. Snowshoeing
There are so many places to strap on some snowshoes and take a walk in the woods. This is a great activity for the whole family… you don’t need experience to float over the snow, and you can pick your pace.
Take a short drive from Princeton up Snowpatch Road to China Ridge Trails. There, you’ll find 15 kilometres of snowshoe trails winding through the forest.
Or, head to E.C. Manning Park and wander the Similkameen Trail… then pop into the Bear’s Den Pub to warm up—or cool down.
Don’t have snowshoes? Don’t worry, you can rent them at Princeton Outfitters and Manning Park.
2. Skiing
There’s no shortage of powder in the Similkameen Valley.
Whether you’re a cross-country enthusiast or downhill skiing and boarding are more your speed, you’ll find some of the most picturesque locations to indulge in your passion.
Cross-country skiers will find 40 kilometres of trails winding through China Ridge. A team of volunteers maintains the tracks… and there are some set for skate-skiing.
Downhill skiers and boarders will find beautiful alpine terrain at Manning Park Resort. The hill is divided evenly between green (novice), blue (experienced) and black diamond (pro) runs, so the entire family will find a slope they can enjoy.
Bonus: wrap up the day with a ride at the Polar Coaster Tube Park… it’ll bring out the inner child in you!
Is the backcountry your terrain of choice? Just be sure to check local conditions before heading out on your ski tour. Then you might want to explore Three Brothers Mountain in Manning Park.
3. Snowmobiling
Sledders like it steep and deep.
On the snowmobile trails from Princeton to Olalla, we’ve got plenty of sparkling, steep and deep snow to go around. The BC Snowmobile Federation is your best source for local clubs and organized rides.
Come and take on our adrenaline-fueled trails and wide-open plains buried deep with Similkameen powder.
Nothing beats the freedom of exploring the backcountry on sleds, except for maybe the exhausted and happy feeling you have after carving fresh tracks over newly fallen snow.
4. Skating
Few things compare to skating in the great outdoors.
Winter in the Similkameen means frozen rivers and lakes just waiting for you to lace up your skates and glide amid the towering, snow-covered mountains and breathe in the crisp, fresh air.
Bring a hockey stick, and you might find yourself playing a game of shinny with some new friends.
Check out the covered rink in Tulameen or the ponds in the mountains at Manning Park Resort, where you can rent everything you need for a day out on the ice with your family.
5. Ice-fishing
Every season is fishing season in the Similkameen Valley… and winter is one of the best.
If you’ve never tried your hand at fishing when it’s freezing outside, you’re in for a treat.
Bundle up and head to Yellow Lake on Highway 3A – it’s one of the most popular destinations for novice and experienced anglers alike. It’s easy to access and a beautiful spot to spend the day waiting for the big one to take a bite.
And, if you feel like taking a drive, wander up to Tulameen and try your luck on Otter Lake.
Don’t forget… you’ll need a BC Fishing Licence.
Celebrate Winter In The Similkameen
The Similkameen Valley is known for its hot summers and all the amazing recreational opportunities they present… but there are just as many to discover in the winter.
It’s an easy drive from the Lower Mainland and the Okanagan…but once you’re in the Similkameen Valley, you’re a world apart.
Want to find out more about the ways you celebrate winter in the Similkameen? We can’t wait to see you here! Explore our website.
This article was originally published October 2021 and has been updated.
