Guide to Snowshoeing in the Okanagan
Looking for a fun way to get outside this winter? Snowshoeing around the Okanagan is one of the best ways to enjoy the season! Whether you’re in Kelowna, Penticton, or Salmon Arm, there are so many trails to explore and you don’t need any special skills to get started.
One of the things I love about snowshoeing is how accessible it is. You don’t need fancy gear or a ton of experience. You can stick to easy, family-friendly trails or venture into more rugged backcountry spots if you’re feeling adventurous.
Want more ideas? Check out these snowshoe trails near Kelowna!
There are amazing spots all over the region, like Crystal Mountain near Kelowna or trails around Apex Mountain in Penticton. If you’re in Salmon Arm, check out Larch Hills, it’s stunning after a fresh snowfall!
Seriously, if you haven’t tried snowshoeing yet, give it a go. It’s such a simple way to make the most of winter in the Okanagan, plus, it’s a great excuse to warm up with a cider afterward (because who doesn’t love that?).
Nordic Clubs in the Okanagan
Let’s start with the obvious. Nordic clubs are some of the best spots for snowshoeing in the Okanagan! These places are set up specifically for winter fun, so you know you’re in good hands.
Most Nordic clubs in the region, like Telemark Nordic Club near Kelowna or Larch Hills in Salmon Arm, have a mix of snowshoeing and cross-country ski trails. The trail networks are usually pretty extensive and you could easily spend a full day (or more) exploring them. Plus, they’re great for beginners and experienced snowshoers alike.
What makes Nordic clubs even better? They often have cozy lodges, washrooms, and sometimes even rental gear. While some spots might have extra perks like warming huts or cafés, most of the experience is about unplugging and enjoying the outdoors which is part of the charm!
Since Nordic clubs are run by volunteers, they rely on memberships and day-use fees to keep things running. If you’re planning to snowshoe regularly at places like Sovereign Lake near Vernon or Nickel Plate Nordic Centre in Penticton, a membership can definitely be worth it. Not only do you support the club, but you also get unlimited access to the trails all winter long!
Kelowna Nordic Ski & Snowshoe Club in Kelowna
If you’re looking for a scenic snowshoe adventure in the Okanagan, Kelowna Nordic should be on your list! With over 80 km of groomed trails, it’s one of the best places to explore the winter landscape, from peaceful forests to stunning panoramic views. You’ll even find a few rustic cabins along the way (just remember, dogs aren’t allowed inside the cabins).
Speaking of dogs, they’re welcome on all the snowshoe trails which makes this spot a must-visit for pet lovers. And don’t worry about getting lost, the trails are GPS mapped, so you can relax and enjoy your trek.
Day-use passes are $10 and must be purchased online ahead of time.
Larch Hills Nordic Society in Salmon Arm
If you’re looking for a rugged snowshoe adventure, Larch Hills is a must-visit in the Okanagan. Located just 30 minutes from Salmon Arm in the hills behind Mara, it has 16 km of wilderness snowshoe trails that wind through peaceful forests and quiet backcountry.
Since these trails aren’t actively maintained by a club, it’s important to come prepared. Make sure you’ve got the ten essentials, dress in appropriate winter layers, and pack extra clothing, food, and water; safety first when heading into the Okanagan’s wilderness!
Snowshoe day-use passes are $8 for adults and $5 for youth, with payments made on the honour system at drop boxes located at the trailheads.
McKinney Nordic Ski & Snowshoe Club in Oliver
Tucked away just 30 minutes from Oliver near Baldy Mountain Resort, McKinney Nordic is a small but charming spot for snowshoeing in the Okanagan. With 5 km of snowshoe trails and a few rustic shelters along the way, it’s a peaceful place to explore the winter wilderness.
Dogs are welcome on the snowshoe trails which makes it a great outing for you and your pup, just be sure to keep them off the ski tracks to protect the groomed trails.
While McKinney Nordic doesn’t offer rentals or require day-use passes, they ask for donations to help their dedicated volunteers maintain the trails.
Nickel Plate Nordic Club in Penticton
Just 50 minutes from downtown Penticton near Apex Mountain, the Nickel Plate Nordic Club is a must-visit spot for snowshoeing in the Okanagan. Known for having one of the longest ski seasons in Canada, it has 25 km of marked snowshoe trails that weave through breathtaking alpine landscapes. Plus, you can easily track your hike using GPS maps on Trailforks, so you won’t miss a step!
Snowshoe rentals are available, but you’ll need to book them online in advance. Day passes are $15 and also require online booking.
If you have First Nation, Métis, or Inuit identification, you and your family can snowshoe for free.
Revelstoke Nordic Ski Club in Revelstoke
Nestled in the beautiful wilderness near Upper Arrow Lake, Revelstoke Nordic is a peaceful spot to enjoy a winter snowshoe adventure. Just 15 minutes from downtown Revelstoke, it has 4.5 km of snowshoe trails that winds through rolling hills and serene forests.
Dogs are welcome on the snowshoe trail, but they must be on-leash and under control whenever the trail crosses the ski tracks.
Snowshoe rentals are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but it’s best to call ahead to ensure availability. Day-use passes are $6 per vehicle, payable on-site.
Skmana Ski Club in Chase
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to snowshoe in the Okanagan, Skmana Ski Club is a great little find! It’s about 20 minutes from Chase along a forest service road and feels like a peaceful escape into nature.
The club has around 3 km of snowshoe trails that meander through the forest and wrap around East and West Skmana Lakes. It’s beautiful and so quiet, perfect for a laid-back snowshoe outing!
Skmana doesn’t rent snowshoes. Day-use passes are $10 and it’s an honour system, so you’ll just drop your payment on-site.
Sovereign Lake Nordic Club in Vernon
Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre is just 30 minutes from Vernon and sits right next to Silver Star Mountain Resort, talk about a prime location! With around 18 km of snowshoe trails, you’ll be treated to some absolutely gorgeous views of the valley as you explore.
Plus, all the trails are GPS mapped on Avenza Maps, which makes it super easy to stay on track. Oh, and heads up, dogs aren’t allowed on the snowshoe trails, so you’ll have to leave your furry hiking buddy at home for this one.
If you don’t have your own snowshoes, no worries! Sovereign Lake offers rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis. Day passes are $12.10 for adults and $8.80 for youth and can be purchased online or on-site.
Telemark Nordic Club in West Kelowna
Telemark Nordic Club is one of the best places to snowshoe in the Okanagan! Located just 30 minutes from downtown Kelowna in West Kelowna’s Glenrosa area, it offers around 60 km of well-marked snowshoe trails. With routes that range from easy to challenging, there’s something for everyone, no matter your skill level.
One of the best parts? You can bring your dog along! Just stick to the 7 km K9 trail and your pup will have a blast exploring the snowy Okanagan landscape with you.
Telemark makes planning your trip simple. Snowshoe rentals can be reserved online and day passes are $10 for adults and $5 for youth, purchased online before you go.
Ski Resorts in the Okanagan
The Okanagan is known for skiing and snowboarding. But if you’re anything like me and prefer a more low-key adventure, snowshoeing is where it’s at. Resorts can feel a bit hectic with all the ski lifts and crowded villages, which is why I used to avoid them. But honestly? Snowshoeing at ski resorts is totally underrated.
Most of the hustle and bustle stays around the ski runs and lifts. The snowshoe trails are way quieter. You’ll find beautiful, peaceful routes with stunning views, and the best part? After your adventure, you can treat yourself to a hot drink in the village or even make a weekend out of it by staying overnight.
Another bonus? You don’t need a pricey season pass to snowshoe at resorts like Big White near Kelowna, Apex Mountain near Penticton, or SilverStar up in Vernon. Snowshoeing only requires a small day-use fee. It’s an affordable way to enjoy those gorgeous resort vibes without the crowds!
So if you’ve been avoiding ski resorts for snowshoeing, give it a second thought. You might just find your new favourite trail!
Apex Mountain Resort in Penticton
Apex Mountain is a bit of a well-kept secret in the Okanagan! Just 40 minutes from Penticton, this ski resort is much quieter than some of the more well-known spots and locals love it for that laid-back vibe.
While most of the snowshoe trails around Apex are shared with the nearby Nickle Plate Nordic Centre, the resort does have its own dedicated trail near the village transfer station. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a peaceful snowshoeing adventure in the Okanagan.
The best part? Snowshoeing at Apex is completely free! They also offer snowshoe rentals if you need gear, making it easy to hit the trails without much planning.
Big White Ski Resort in Kelowna
Big White, just an hour from downtown Kelowna, is one of the Okanagan’s most popular winter spots and it’s not just for skiing! The resort has about 10 km of snowshoe trails that wind through beautiful, snowy forests that are such a peaceful way to explore the area.
If you’re new to snowshoeing, Big White’s guided snowshoe tours are a great way to get started and learn the basics. And good news for dog lovers, you can bring your pup along! Just remember to keep them on a leash while you’re out on the trails.
Big White has snowshoe rentals, but you’ll need to book them online in advance. Access to the snowshoe trails costs $15/day or $139 for a season pass.
Baldy Mountain Resort in Oliver
Baldy Mountain is a bit of a secret in the Okanagan and that’s exactly what makes it so great! It’s just 40 minutes from Oliver and has all the charm of a small ski resort without the busy crowds. Plus, it’s BC’s third-highest elevation ski area, so the views are pretty incredible.
The snowshoe trails at Baldy total about 5 km and range from beginner to advanced, so there’s something for everyone. It’s a laid-back spot that feels like a locals’ hangout which is perfect if you want to avoid the hustle of bigger resorts.
Snowshoe rentals are available, but you’ll need to call ahead to reserve them (at least 48 hours in advance, give them a shout at 250-498-4086). And the trails are totally free!
If you’re looking for a relaxed snowshoeing spot in the Okanagan with awesome views and no crowds, Baldy Mountain is definitely worth checking out.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort in Revelstoke
Revelstoke Mountain Resort is just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown Revelstoke and offers a one-of-a-kind snowshoeing experience. Instead of self-guided trails, they focus on guided snowshoe tours which are perfect if you’re new to snowshoeing or want to learn more about the local wildlife and surroundings.
Tours last between 1.5 to 2.5 hours and come with everything you need; snowshoes, headlamps (for evening tours), and even hot drinks to warm you up afterward. It’s a great way to soak in the beauty of the Revelstoke area without worrying about getting lost on the trails.
SilverStar Mountain Resort in Vernon
Just 30 minutes from Vernon, SilverStar is a top winter destination in the Okanagan and there’s more to it than just skiing. The resort has 16 km of scenic snowshoe trails that take you through quiet forests and across the mountainside. It’s the perfect way to experience the snowy landscape!
If you love adventuring with your pup, SilverStar is a great choice. Dogs are welcome on the snowshoe trails as long as they’re under control and you’ve got a leash on hand.
Day-use snowshoe tickets are $15 and you can buy them online ahead of time. Snowshoe rentals are available at the resort.
Other Snowshoe & Winter Hiking Trails in the Okanagan
And here we are the Okanagan’s other snowshoe trails! The great thing about snowshoeing around here is that almost any trail in the Okanagan can become a snowshoe trail once the snow falls. The downside? With so many options, it can feel a bit overwhelming to choose where to go.
Before we dive into some of my favourite trail picks around Kelowna, Penticton, and Salmon Arm, here’s a quick tip: timing is everything. The best time to hit the trails with your snowshoes is right after a fresh snowfall. The fluffy snow makes for an easy, fun adventure. But if it hasn’t snowed for a while, those same trails might be hard-packed and icy which is when spikes or crampons might be a better option.
So, what makes snowshoeing the Okanagan so special? It’s all about variety. You can wander through serene forests, trek up to panoramic viewpoints, or even follow trails that pass by frozen lakes. Whether you’re sticking close to Kelowna or heading out to explore more of the valley, there’s no shortage of winter magic to discover.
This is by no means an exhaustive list of snowshoe trails in the Okanagan, but I hope you can use it to start exploring and enjoying the winter.
BX Creek Falls in Vernon
If you’re looking for a fun snowshoe close to town, BX Falls is a great pick! The trail leads to a stunning waterfall that’s often frozen in the winter, it’s a pretty magical sight and totally worth the trek.
Just 15 minutes from downtown Vernon, this 6.5 km trail winds along BX Creek through a snowy forest with bridges to cross and a few stair sections to tackle. The stairs can be a bit awkward in snowshoes, but that just adds to the adventure!
If you want a peaceful Okanagan snowshoe that’s easy to get to but still feels like a winter escape, BX Falls should definitely be on your list!
Kalamalka Provincial Park in Vernon
Kalamalka Provincial Park in Vernon is a great spot for snowshoeing in the Okanagan. With over 30 km of trails, you’ll have plenty of routes to explore whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a heart-pumping climb.
There’s something magical about Kal Park in the winter. The snowy landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and stunning views of Kalamalka Lake make it feel like a winter wonderland. You’ll find everything from flat, easy trails at the base of the mountain to more challenging routes that reward you with breathtaking viewpoints.
Mission Creek Greenway Regional Park in Kelowna
Mission Creek Greenway is one of Kelowna’s most versatile trails and it’s a fantastic spot for snowshoeing in the winter! This 16.5 km linear trail runs from Gallagher’s Canyon all the way to Okanagan Lake and has a mix of easy, wide paths and more challenging, narrow sections.
If you start near Gallagher’s Canyon, you’ll find yourself in Scenic Canyon Regional Park which feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. This section has narrow paths, bridges, stairs, and some steep hills which makes it a more adventurous snowshoe. If you’re looking for something more mellow, head toward the latter half of the trail where the paths flatten out and widen.
What makes Mission Creek a go-to for snowshoeing? The variety! You can tackle a more challenging route if you’re up for it or take a leisurely stroll through snow-covered trees. Either way, you’re guaranteed some stunning winter views and it’s right in the heart of Kelowna.
Myra Canyon Trestles in Kelowna
The Myra Canyon Trestles are just a 40-minute drive from downtown Kelowna and they’re one of the most unique spots to go snowshoeing in the Okanagan. If you’re looking for an easy, laid-back adventure with jaw-dropping views of historic trestles and the surrounding valley, this is it!
This stretch of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) runs 12 km from Myra Station to Ruth Station. Since it was originally built for a railway, the trail is nice and wide with a super gentle grade, only 2%! That makes it perfect for a relaxed snowshoe outing, even if you’re new to the sport.
One of the best things about Myra Canyon is its elevation. Thanks to its higher location, the snow sticks around much longer here than it does down in the valley. So even if it feels like spring in downtown Kelowna, you can often find snowy trails up at the trestles.
This is one of those iconic Okanagan spots that you have to check out in the winter. Trust me, snowshoeing across those trestles is a whole different vibe from hiking it in the summer!
Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park in Kelowna
Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park is a hidden gem for snowshoeing and one of my favourite spots to escape the hustle of Kelowna. Just 30 minutes from downtown, this park sits right on the shores of Okanagan Lake and has a ton of trails to explore, from short 1.5 km routes to longer 8+ km adventures.
What makes this spot so special? The solitude. Not many people venture up here in the winter, which means you’ll likely have the mountain (and those stunning lake views) all to yourself. It’s the perfect place to soak in the quiet, snowy landscape without any distractions.
As you snowshoe through Okanagan Mountain, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding valley. Whether you’re looking for a quick snowshoe or an all-day adventure, this park has something for everyone and it’s totally worth the trip for the peace and quiet alone.
Peachland Lookout in Peachland
If you’re looking for a peaceful snowshoeing spot away from the crowds, head to the Peachland Lookout. Tucked away in the mountains behind Peachland, this hidden gem is perfect for a quiet winter adventure.
The trail is about a 5 km round trip and follows an old dirt road through the forest. It’s an easy, steady climb, and when you reach the top, you’re rewarded with absolutely stunning views of Okanagan Lake. Trust me, the view is even more magical with a blanket of snow and the lake shimmering below.
What I love most about this trail is the solitude. It’s one of those spots where you might not see another soul the entire time, making it feel like your own private winter wonderland. It’s a beautiful snowshoeing option in the Okanagan, and because it’s fairly unknown, it’s ideal if you’re craving some peace and quiet in nature.
Predator Ridge in Vernon
Looking for a dog-friendly snowshoeing spot near Vernon? Predator Ridge has over 12 km of designated snowshoe trails that are perfect for a winter adventure in the Okanagan. The trails range from easy, flat routes for beginners to steeper climbs that’ll give you a bit of a workout and there are handy maps at the trailheads to help you navigate.
One of the best things about Predator Ridge is that the trails are dog-friendly, as long as your pup stays leashed and you keep them off the golf course. It’s a great spot to explore with your four-legged friend!
If you don’t have your own gear, no worries, Predator Ridge offers snowshoe rentals right at the Clubhouse. Whether you’re up for a quick 2-hour trek or an all-day snowshoe adventure, you’ll find everything you need to hit the trails and enjoy the peaceful winter landscapes.
Spion Kop in Lake Country
Spion Kop in Lake Country is an awesome snowshoeing spot that you can enjoy year-round. With over 17 km of trails crisscrossing the mountain, you’ll have plenty of options to explore whether you’re looking for a quick trek or a full-day adventure.
The snow-covered trails wind through forests and up to some pretty epic viewpoints. You’ll get stunning panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding valley that look especially magical in the winter.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned snowshoer, Spion Kop is a must-visit snowshoeing destination in the Okanagan. Just lace up your snowshoes, pick a trail, and enjoy the peaceful winter scenery!
Final Thoughts on Snowshoeing in the Okanagan
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to embrace winter in the Okanagan! Whether you’re exploring quiet forest trails, trekking to breathtaking viewpoints, or strolling through historic spots like the Myra Canyon Trestles, there’s no shortage of winter adventures waiting to be had.
What makes snowshoeing here so special is the variety. From Kelowna to Penticton, Vernon, and beyond, there are trails for every skill level whether you’re looking for a peaceful outing or a heart-pumping climb. Plus, the views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains make every snowshoe trip that much more rewarding.
So, if you’ve been thinking about trying something new this winter, grab your snowshoes and hit the trails! The Okanagan is a true winter playground and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by getting outside, breathing in the crisp air, and soaking in those stunning snowy landscapes.
Happy snowshoeing and don’t forget to reward yourself with a cozy drink afterward! You’ve earned it. ?
