5 Great Ways to Enjoy Winter in the Shuswap!
Whether you are a backcountry enthusiast, a family looking for some fun, or a first-timer, we have something for everyone here in the Shuswap this winter!
Winter in the Shuswap can be so magical, full of timeless fun. Embrace the cooler temperatures and capture the essence of winter while engaging with our community, connecting with nature, and spending the days outdoors!
Need Gear? Find that Here! To buy or to rent, we have you covered.
Shuswap Gear Guide: Where to Find Locally
Here are our five favorite winter adventures in the Shuswap!
1| Snowshoeing
When life gives you snow, go snowshoeing!
Snowshoeing is a great beginner’s sport because it takes very little experience and is easy to learn! Pick a gentle trail for the little ones and beginners or a more challenging trail to get an excellent workout! Bundle up, grab those shoes and head out on one of the Shuswap’s spectacular winter and Nordic trails!
Don’t have snowshoes, don’t worry! You can rent snowshoes for the whole family at John’s Ski Shack or at Skookum Cycle & Ski in Salmon Arm.
The BEST Snowshoeing spots in the Shuswap found here: Snowshoeing Trails in the Shuswap
2| Sliding
As far as winter sports go, sliding and tobogganing are on the top of the family fun list! There is something about zipping down a hill or zooming through a forest that can enliven our spirits!
The Shuswap offers great sliding hills and winter play places to take on these timeless and exhilarating family traditions.
Load the sleighs, start the car and hit the hills!
Take the Shuswap Toboggan Tour and check out our BEST sliding hills and winter play places!
3| Skating
A favorite Canadian pastime, ice skating is a great way to enjoy the crisp winter air with family and friends. The laughter and excitement will bring out the kid in all of us!
We are so lucky, here in the Shuswap to have a great selection of both, maintained and natural outdoor rinks, each one offering a new and unique experience.
The All You Need To Know Guide includes information on the BEST skating rinks, local skate sharpening, ice safety guides, and local insight to all the magical spots in the Shuswap!
4| Ice Fishing
One of the best things about winter is an old-fashioned family day, playing hockey, and ice fishing on a sparkling frozen lake.
The Shuswap offers exceptional year-round fishing and winter is no exception!
Local hot spots like White Lake, Skimikin Lake, Hidden Lake, Gardom Lake, and Paul Lake all transform into a wintery wonderland and community gathering spots. Ice fishing is fun for the whole family at these easily accessible spots.
Don’t forget that you’ll need a BC Fishing Licence.
Always play safely on the ice. Read all about Ice Safety and the Right Gear here:
Adventure Smart | Ice Safety
Skiing
Two great ingredients for a fantastic family day are fun and connection! Exercise and adventure are a bonus!
Experience the Nordic trails of the Shuswap! Explore with your family on one of the many marked and safe Nordic trails that the Shuswap has to offer.
Skmana Lake Trails | Loakin-Bear Creek Road
There is approximately 18 km of winter Nordic trails around the forest and lake, plus a cute little warming hut to cozy up in and take a break! The snowshoe and cross country ski trails are well marked and user friendly
Larch Hills | Near Salmon Arm
Don’t miss out on the wintery wonderland of Larch Hills! With over 170 km of cross-country ski trails and 17 km of snowshoe tracks, Larch Hills is a Nordic dream and there is something for everyone here! Including warming huts on the trail, a heated chalet at the parking lot, and even a dedicated dog trail.
Extend your winter days into the evening while skiing the illuminated trails!
Looking for MORE suggestions?
1. Salmon Arms Scenic Hot Chocolate Trail! Find that Here!
2. Top Ten Things to do in Salmon Arm.
See the list here!
3. Join an organized hike! The Lady Alliance - Shuswap Chapter. A hiking & adventure group find us on Facebook and join our next event! Join here!
4. Sicamous’ Top Ten Things to Do!
Explore more here!
5. Take a Winter Wonderland Walk!
Here are the BEST winter trails in the Shuswap.
6. Try a Night Hike and experience the magic! The best of night hiking in the Shu!
7. Family Winter Adventures in the South Shuswap. 7 things to do in these 7 South Shu Communities.
8. Shopping in the Shuswap! Discover our favorite local shops in Salmon Arm and Sicamous!
9. Indulge in the Restaurant Scene! Good Eats in Salmon Arm and in Sicamous!
10. Need Winter Gear? Find that here! To buy or to rent, we have you covered.
Shuswap Gear Guide: Where to Find Locally
