File Photo (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Katlyn Eriksen

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Kamloops gears up for busiest winter sports season yet

Sep 26, 2025 | 6:00 AM

This winter is shaping up to be a big one for sports in Kamloops. Sun Peaks Resort, Canada’s second-largest ski destination, expects a surge in American and international visitors this winter, as current U.S. travel restrictions and strained politics may work to drive more tourists north to Canada instead. On opening day last season, Sun Peaks saw over 3,000 visitors hit the slopes, already impressive numbers. So, if the resort’s prediction plays out, the 2025-26 winter could see an even higher turnout. Meanwhile, Harper Mountain, Kamloops’ other major ski spot, is also poised for busy months ahead. Its latest winter season passes include attractive perks like night skiing and access to Nordic trails and is set to draw in both skiers and snowboarders alike.

Sun Peaks upgrades for a busy winter

Sun Peaks has made some exciting upgrades to their slopes and trails to help them prepare for what has the potential to be their most active winter yet. For example, certain slopes have been widened to improve the skiing and snowboarding experience even further. With more space, visitors can now make easier turns and enjoy a smoother ride. They’ve also introduced a new connecting trail, called the Orient Ski Back Trail, to help people more easily get around the resort. This makes it simpler for skiers and snowboarders to explore different parts of the mountain. Snow conditions are also a big bonus here thanks to a recent major $5.5 million investment in snowmaking. This allows the resort to open up key trails in early- and mid-November. There’s currently 36 snow guns in use, so you can bet the trails will remain covered all winter long and into spring.

Harper Mountain unveils its new winter pass

Harper Mountain’s latest 2025-26 winter pass is designed to help visitors get the most out of this winter’s skiing and snowboarding, and is likely to attract both locals and tourists alike. Among its many perks, this pass includes night skiing, which is a great way to get in some extra runs under the stars. The evening sessions are usually less crowded than peak daytime hours, which makes for a more peaceful and relaxed experience. The pass also includes access to the resort’s Nordic trails — a beautiful, groomed three-kilometre loop that winds through scenic forested areas. Overall, the terrain at Harper Mountain is well-balanced, with 25 per cent designated for beginners, 50 per cent for intermediates and 25 per cent for more advanced skiers and snowboarders. This means there’s something for everyone to enjoy, no matter what skill level.

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Gear advice for an exciting winter on the slopes

As the city’s resorts prepare for a busy season, Kamloops locals may naturally be thinking about hitting the slopes themselves. That’s understandable as winter sports are huge across the province, with more than 520,000 active skiers and snowboarders recorded over the last season. But to have the best experience possible, sports enthusiasts and first-times alike need the right equipment. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own — you can always rent what you need at Sun Peaks or Harper Mountain. But if you’ve got your own skis or snowboard, feel free to bring them. For snowboarders, a good board can really help with performance, especially as they typically average 20 hours on the mountains each season. All-mountain boards are designed to handle everything from maintained trails and fresh, untouched snow. This helps riders stay confident and in control on the slopes.

It’s just as important to choose the right skis for the terrain to keep rides safe and fun. For example, powder skis can help you glide through the fresh, powder snow usually found at Sun Peaks. Use these to cruise across the slopes without losing your balance or getting stuck. Or, if you plan on sticking to groomed trails, carving skis are a good choice. These tend to be stiffer than other skis and so grip better to the hard-packed snow that typically blankets maintained runs.

With resorts like Sun Peaks and Harper Mountain preparing for the season with upgrades and attractive passes, Kamloops is all set for a busy winter. Whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, you’re certain to have a blast on the slopes in the coming months.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.