Kelowna is a true four-season playground, so it is no surprise that there are lots of fun things to do in the Okanagan Valley in the winter. While the Okanagan is mostly known as a summer destination, it is truly a spectacular place to visit in the winter as well, with mild temperatures that make it easy to get outside and explore. Whether you’re looking to get outside and enjoy nature or stay inside and relax, the winter activity options are endless.
From tasty eats to great sights, we’ve put together a list of some of the best things to do in the Okanagan Valley this winter!
Go Cross-Country Skiing
There is truly nothing better than exploring the stunning natural landscape in the Okanagan, and what better way to explore than by cross-country skiing! With Kelowna being close to two cross-country ski clubs and Big White Ski Resort, there are over 250 kilometers of groomed trails to explore.
The Telemark Nordic Club is located just over the bridge in West Kelowna and boasts over 50 kilometers of trails to enjoy. It even offers a few ‘doggy trails’ so you can bring your furry friend with you. The Kelowna Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Club is in the foothills east of Kelowna and offers 75 kilometers of trails for you to explore. There are rustic warming cabins with bathrooms at the trailhead, and several along the way in case you need to take a break to warm up!
Snowshoe Myra Canyon
Hiking is a popular activity in the Okanagan Valley in the warmer months, but once the temperature drops, lots of locals take advantage of the snow to explore the valley by snowshoe! Myra Canyon is one of the best spots to explore on snowshoes, only a 20-minute drive from downtown Kelowna. The Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park offers over 155 kilometers of multi-use trails, as well as the famous Myra Canyon.
In the canyon, the Kettle Valley Railway trail curves along the edge of a horseshoe-shaped gorge, taking you through two tunnels and over 18 trestle bridges. Because it sits at a higher elevation, snow usually sticks to the trail all winter long, making it a great place to explore on snowshoes.
Take a Spa Day
If you’re more inclined to stay indoors while visiting the Okanagan Valley this winter, there are some great local spas you can visit to treat yourself to a pamper day. Beyond Wrapture is a mind and body care day spa located within the Coast Hotel and offers unique treatments such as a Red or White Wine Vinotherapy Massage or an Aromatherapy Scalp Massage treatment. The Spa at Delta Hotels is located within the Delta Grand Hotel, a lakeside resort in downtown Kelowna. Choose from several different treatments from Deep Relaxation Massages or Facials to help you relax and pamper yourself.
Grab Dinner at Brandt’s Creek
At the end of a long day of exploring or self-care, there is nothing better than visiting Brandt’s Creek Pub for a delicious meal and drinks. We have a large menu with lots of great dining options to choose from. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, try our Blush Orange Salad or the Thai Rice Bowl. If you’re on the hunt for something that packs a bit more of a punch, our Apple Bourbon BBQ Ribs are a great choice!
From exploring the mountainside by snowshoe to enjoying a spa day beside the lake, there are endless fun things to do in the Okanagan Valley in the winter. Make your winter vacation to the Okanagan a memorable one by trying one (or all!) of the activities we’ve put together in this list!