14 Winter Activities

SilverStar Mountain Resort is conveniently located just a 25 minute drive from the affordable hotels in downtown Vernon. Not only is SilverStar known for its 100% natural snow but also for its charming village atmosphere, family-friendly amenities, and terrain for all skill levels, not to mention lots of fun activities for non-skiers.

Vernon's geography was built for snowshoeing, especially Sovereign Lake Nordic Club and SilverStar Mountain Resort. Both provide stunning winter wonderlands dotted with giant snow-covered trees. Rent snowshoes or bring your own to explore these areas on foot.

Photo credit: @roycesihlis via Instagram

Visit Vernon this February for ten-days of fun at the annual Vernon Winter Carnival. Events include the snow sculpture competition at SilverStar, the must-see hot air balloon festival, winter sports, dinners and more. Many events sell out, so don't miss your chance to be a part of Western Canada's largest Winter Carnival! Make sure to dress up and join the fun!

Vernon is considered one of the top places to cross-country ski in British Columbia. There are more than 105 km of combined cross-country trails in the Greater Vernon area, so if you've ever wanted to try cross-country skiing, this is the place! Head to SilverStar Mountain Resort or Sovereign Lake Nordic Club for exceptional groomed trails, rentals (if needed) and a delightful time spent outdoors. 

After a day of outdoor adventures and snow fun, head to Downtown Vernon for happy hour. Check out Vernon's craft Brewery, Marten Brew Pub or grab a glass of wine at the Phoenix Steakhouse and Bar. Check out the local libations page for the best spots.

Photo credit: Niall Pinder/Zenseekers

Vernon has a vibrant arts and culture scene full of galleries, live theatre, art classes and more. Check out the latest exhibits at the Vernon Public Art Gallery, take a pottery class at the Vernon Community Arts Centre or catch live music at the Vernon Jazz Club.

Love ice skating, playing hockey or both? You have to visit SilverStar's Brewer's Pond this winter. This one-hectare/2.47 acre natural skating surface is about as good as it gets for outdoor skating, plus there's an outdoor fire, festive music, and beautiful lights.

Photo credit: SilverStar Mountain Resort

 Reason #8: Warm up with a Hot Sip

Warm up on a cold winter day with a hot drink from one of the eclectic coffee and tea spots in Downtown Vernon. View the Hot Sips trail map for some ideas of where to go around Downtown.

Keep the kids entertained and burn off some energy indoors at the Rock Garden Climbing Centre. Explore the fun indoor activities to do during the cold winter days.

   Reason #10: Relax in luxury at Sparkling Hill

Experience the ultimate romantic winter getaway at Vernon's Sparkling Hill Resort. Escape from the cold and relax at the 40,000 square foot, state-of-the-art KurSpa. Live it up in luxury surrounded by 3.5 million Swarovski crystals and stunning views of the Monashee Mountains and Okanagan Lake. 

Photo credit: Sparkling Hill Resort

After a day of winter adventure, take a sip of warming whiskey or liqueur from Vernon's Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery. They're open daily to the public all winter long. Go for a tasting and then buy a bottle to take home! 

Photo credit: LMW Photography

Imagine a whole section of a ski resort devoted entirely to inner tubing, complete with four separate lanes and tube lifts! SilverStar's Tube Town provides exactly that. Bring the whole family down for thrilling rides in a safe, controlled environment. Expect plenty of laughs and ridiculous winter fun!

Shop local during your visit to Vernon and stroll the streets of Downtown for clothing stores, toy stores, antiques, gifts and more! Don't forget the edible gifts too from Wedge Cheesery and Olive Us Oil & Vinegars.

Cruise the slopes under a star-speckled sky at SilverStar Mountain Resort. Night skiing runs every Friday and Saturday night all winter long.

Photo credit: SilverStar Mountain Resort