The North Okanagan’s Nordic Secret: 105 Kilometers of Winter Wonder

Why Nordic skiers from across North America are drawn to the Trails Capital of BC

The North Okanagan is home to one of Canada’s premier Nordic skiing destinations, where 105 kilometers of world-class trails wind through pristine forests and snow-covered landscapes. It’s no surprise that Vernon proudly holds the title of Trails Capital of BC—and in winter, those trails transform into a Nordic paradise. Silver Star’s two renowned trail systems, SilverStar Mountain Resort and Sovereign Lake Nordic Club, combine to create an experience that draws everyone from Olympic athletes to families making their first tracks in the snow.

World-Renowned Snow, Right in Your Backyard

“Sovereign and Silver Star are world renowned,” says Ian Oliphant, Sovereign Lake Nordic Development Centre Alumni. “It’s no secret that we have some of the best snow in the world.”

That exceptional snow quality, combined with a season that typically runs from mid-November through early April, makes the North Okanagan a winter destination worth the journey. Nearly five months of reliable Nordic skiing means more time to explore the region’s trails, communities, and après-ski culture.

Something for Everyone

One of the most remarkable aspects of the North Okanagan’s Nordic scene is how it welcomes skiers of every ability and ambition. Wendy Shannon, Sovereign Lake Nordic Club General Manager, explains: “There’s definitely some different terrain to explore for every possible skill level.”

On any given winter day, you’ll find high-performance athletes training on terrain that’s hosted national competitions, young students discovering the joy of gliding, multi-generational families creating traditions on the trails, weekend warriors seeking peaceful forest escapes, and community groups like the Silver Hares, who gather every Saturday morning for Nordic adventures together.

If you’re new to the sport or traveling without your gear, you can find convenient rental shops throughout the region that make it simple to hit the trails. Pick up everything you need at SilverStar Mountain Resort, The Village Ski Shop, Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre, or Stussi Sport in Vernon.

Room to Roam in the Trails Capital

In a world where popular ski destinations can feel crowded, the North Okanagan offers something increasingly rare: solitude when you want it. There’s a reason this region earned its reputation as the Trails Capital of BC, the sheer scope and variety of terrain here is unmatched.

Pat Van Mullem, organizer of the Silver Hares ski group, describes it perfectly: “The 105 km of trail system can swallow up a lot of skiers without them getting in each other’s way or even seeing each other. Yesterday I skied for two and a half hours, and I probably saw 5 skiers.”

This extensive trail network means you can find your own rhythm and your own quiet corner of winter paradise, a gift for anyone seeking to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature.

A Community That Celebrates Winter

Beyond the trails, there’s a visible energy among the people who gather in the North Okanagan each winter. “The people up here are just amazing,” Oliphant notes. “Everybody is so excited to ski, everybody is so excited to enjoy the mountain.”

That community spirit shines brightest at the annual S2S Ski Marathon, where hundreds of Nordic skiers from across the region and beyond gather at the end of the season to ski from Sovereign to Silver Star. It’s a celebration of winter, community, and the shared love of the sport, complete with friendly faces and plenty of fun.

After a day on the trails, the Silver Star village awaits with warm dishes and cold beer, or head down the mountain to explore Vernon’s vibrant downtown scene. Either way, you’ll find a community ready to welcome you in from the cold and ask, “How were the trails today?”

An Experience Beyond Words

To sum up what makes this place special, Oliphant offers an invitation: “Honestly there aren’t words to describe this place, you’ve got to come see it for yourself.”

The North Okanagan’s Nordic skiing is more than kilometers, the snow quality or even the stunning scenery—though all three are exceptional. It’s about the complete winter experience: crisp mountain air, the meditative rhythm of skis on groomed trails, quiet forests, and a welcoming community that shares your passion for winter.

Plan Your North Okanagan Nordic Adventure

Whether you’re a competitive skier looking for challenging terrain, a family seeking winter memories, or someone who simply wants to experience some of the best Nordic skiing in Canada, the Trails Capital of BC is waiting.

Ready to discover the North Okanagan’s Nordic trails? Start planning your visit and explore the region.