Family Friendly Winter Adventures in the North Okanagan
The North Okanagan sets the stage for an incredible winter escape. Snow-laden forests, crisp mountain air, and sparkling vistas create unforgettable family experiences. Slopeside accommodations nestled in natural surroundings make it easy to step into the magic of the outdoors. Here are a few ideas for things to do and where to stay on your next family vacation in the North Okanagan.
Silver Star
Natural snow, gondola rides, and hot chocolate breaks await at SilverStar Mountain Resort. With an abundance of green and blue runs, there’s plenty of room for beginners and intermediate skiers to build their confidence, while more adventurous kids and parents can tackle the thrills of “the Backside,” home to challenging black-diamond terrain.
When the lifts stop spinning, the fun doesn’t end—make your way to Tube Town to race each other down the tubing lanes, or lace up your skates for a friendly game of hockey on Brewers Pond, the outdoor rink. End your day with a freshly-cooked Tube Town waffle, the café’s newest offering. Stacked with toppings and pillows of whipped cream, it’s the ideal treat after a day outdoors.
Where to Stay:
Rosy-faced and satisfied, make the short journey back to one of many slopeside accommodations. With everything at Silver Star within walking distance, those early morning starts feel a little easier. For added convenience, the complimentary shuttle makes getting around the resort effortless. Silver Star Stays has great options for spacious vacation rentals with full kitchens and hot tubs, so there’ll be plenty of room for the whole family.
Where to Dine:
When tummies start rumbling, take your pick of the family-friendly dining options in the village. For a morning pick-me-up, Bugaboos and Town Hall offer quick options for hot chocolate, coffees, and treats. At lunchtime, the aroma of hot pizza emanating from Pizza Gratta is hard to resist. Offering both takeout and grab-and-go options, their sourdough, made-from-scratch pizza is a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. The Bulldog Grand Cafe has some good options for children, and adults will enjoy their Dutch-Indonesian flavor blends.
Vernon
The charming town of Vernon, just 25 minutes away, offers a refreshing change of pace from the slopes. Recently named the Trails Capital of BC, the Greater Vernon area offers countless ways to embrace winter. Crunch on frosted paths at Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, where a diverse network of paths offers something for every family. For a leisurely adventure, the Okanagan Rail Trail is open year-round. Amble along the shores of Kalamalka Lake, watching out for deer grazing nearby or eagles flying overhead.
Nestled between Vernon and Silver Star is Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre, where snow-draped trees invite wonder and adventure. Pick up some snowshoes and head out on Trapline for a mostly flat 2km (0.5 miles) route through the forest, or choose White Rabbit and push on towards the Black Prince Cabin. Here, a wood-burning stove invites a moment of rest and a great spot to enjoy a picnic lunch. Spend an afternoon exploring the exhibits at the Okanagan Science Centre. Gaze up at the galaxies during a Planetarium Show, or take a spin on the Gyro Chair for a taste of how it feels to be in outer space. Afterward, head to the Boarding House Café, and pick your family’s favorite board game and settle in for an afternoon of friendly competition over hot drinks and tasty snacks. For older kids and families up for a challenge, put your detective skills to the test at Beyond Belief Escape Rooms to solve clues and crack codes together.
Where to Stay:
Spend the night nearby to make the most of everything Vernon has to offer. The Fairfield Inn and Suites provides a relaxed and comfortable retreat, complete with an indoor pool and waterslide that the kids will love. At the Prestige Lodge, families can enjoy splashing in the pool before unwinding at Cabana Kitchen & Bar in the tropical atrium next door for happy hour deals and a kids’ menu.
Where to Dine:
When it’s time to eat, Vernon has plenty of delicious options. Start your day at Eatology, locally-known for serving one of the best breakfasts in Vernon. For hearty appetites, the Station BBQ Smokehouse serves up generous plates of smoky goodness, or head over to The Kal where a kids’ menu and an arcade will delight the little ones. In the North Okanagan, there’s no shortage of activities to keep the whole family entertained. Whether you’re racing down tubing lanes, exploring local trails, or enjoying a cozy meal together, each moment offers something special. With easy access to both outdoor adventure and indoor fun, the region provides an exciting winter escape for families looking to create lasting memories. Start planning your winter adventure to the North Okanagan.
