Location: Sun Peaks is the second biggest ski area in Canada, behind Whistler. It is the perfect warm up destination for anyone who is heli skiing at CMH’s Cariboos Lodge.
Getting there: Sun Peaks is located in the heart of British Columbia, only a 45 minute drive from Kamloops and less than an hour by air from Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton international airports. The airport shuttle, Tastefull Excursions meet most flights. It costs CAD$40 + taxes per person per way and can be booked in advance.
Where to stay: Sun Peaks Lodge is a firm favourite with the Pure Powder guests who are looking for comfort and great value. If you’re after something a little fancier then the Sun Peaks Grand is the finest accommodation in the resort. Staying here will give you access to the Health Club which is made up of three outdoor hot tubs, an outdoor heated swimming pool, a well-equipped gym, a sauna and two massage rooms.
Highlights: The terrain is a perfect fit for intermediates with lots of superb glades. The village has a charm about it and is a great place for strolling around – Sun Peaks is traffic-free. It is the perfect place for warming up when heading heli skiing at CMH’s Cariboos Lodge.
Downsides: Kamloops isn’t the easiest city to fly into and some of the connecting flights to/from Europe involve lengthy lay-overs. During the week the slopes tend to be quite quiet which is great for skiing but not so great if you’re looking for good après.
Best piste run: There’s plenty of terrain to explore for the intermediate skier, however if you’re looking for something a bit steeper then head to Mount Tod – the runs here, like double black diamond Offset, are quite challenging but they are short. (Mt Morrisey is where you will find some blacks with moguls)
Best Mountain Restaurant: We’d recommend heading back to the village for a spot of lunch as the only option on the mountain is the Sunburst Bar + Eatery (at the top of the Sunburst Express Chair), expect to graze on burgers, salads, chilli and soup – and don’t forget to try one of their fresh cinnamon buns!
Best Restaurant in town: Despite its small size, there are a good range of restaurants in Sun Peaks. Bella Italia serve the best pizzas in town but if it’s a steak and ribs you’re after then head to Steakhouse at the Sun Peaks Lodge. It’s popular though so don’t forget to book!
Best Après Bar: There’s limited choice for après in Sun Peaks and most people tend to have an afternoon drink and head out for dinner instead of party after their hard day’s skiing. However, you will find entertainment at either Bottoms Bar + Grill based in the Coast Sundance Lodge or Masa’s Bar + Grill based in the Village Day Lodge.
Best off piste run: Look no further than Sun Peaks legendary Gil’s terrain – this is a wonderful backcountry bowl full of steeps, open glades, and powder-filled meadows. It is the perfect place to get warmed up before a heli trip.
If you like the sound of skiing in Sun Peaks for your heli skiing warm up, contact the experts at Pure Powder today.