Winter in Kamloops is where wide open landscapes, small city energy, and true interior BC character come together. Sitting at the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops offers one of the most approachable winter tourism experiences in British Columbia. It’s less crowded than the coast, sunnier than you’d expect, and perfectly positioned for travelers who want skiing, local culture, and great food without the chaos of bigger mountain towns.

At FarOut Wilderness, we’re drawn to places that feel real, functional, and quietly impressive. Kamloops in winter checks all of those boxes. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or building a multi day interior road trip, this city delivers winter adventure with zero pretension.

Winter Itinerary Ideas in Kamloops

Kamloops shines in winter because everything is close. You can ski in the morning, explore downtown in the afternoon, and catch a hockey game at night without ever feeling rushed. The pace is relaxed, the scenery is bold, and the experiences feel grounded.

Kamloops Blazers hockey games

Catching a Kamloops Blazers game is a true local experience. The WHL team has a deep history, and winter nights at the Sandman Centre are loud, energetic, and packed with community pride. Even if you’re not a die hard hockey fan, the atmosphere alone makes it worth adding to your itinerary.

Sun Peaks Resort

Canada’s second largest ski area sits just under an hour from Kamloops, making it one of the easiest major ski resorts to access in BC. Sun Peaks offers expansive alpine terrain, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and a fully built out winter village that feels lively without being overwhelming. It’s ideal for families, intermediate skiers, and travelers who want variety without the Whistler crowds.

Dogsledding at Sun Peaks

Experience winter the way it was meant to be, gliding through snow-covered forests behind a team of powerful, eager huskies. Just outside Sun Peaks Village, guided dogsledding tours take you deep into quiet alpine terrain, where the only sounds are the sled runners on snow and the rhythm of the dogs. It’s a uniquely Canadian experience that combines adventure, nature, and a strong connection to the land.

Overlander Ski Club

For an affordable and laid-back day in the snow, Overlander Ski Club is a local favourite just outside Kamloops. With well-groomed cross-country ski trails and scenic snowshoe routes winding through quiet forest, it’s an easy way to get into the backcountry without the crowds or cost of larger resorts. Rentals are available on site, making it simple to show up and explore.

Harper Mountain

For a more local and low key ski day, Harper Mountain delivers classic Canadian ski hill vibes. Short lift lines, affordable passes, and a cozy lodge make it a favorite with residents. The tube hill is a standout for groups and families, and the outdoor firepits add to the relaxed winter

Riverside Park Skating Rink

Downtown Riverside Park now features a dedicated outdoor skating rink and skating loop, bringing classic winter energy right into the city core. With skate rentals available on site commencing Nov/Dec 2026, it’s easy to drop in for an afternoon or evening glide along the river, surrounded by snow capped hills and city lights.

Food and Drink in Kamloops

Kamloops’ food and drink scene fits winter perfectly. It’s casual, warm, and built around places where locals actually spend time. After a cold day outside, the city’s breweries and restaurants offer exactly what you want: comfort, quality, and personality.

Kamloops’ access to Interior BC ingredients and its strong independent business culture shine year round, but winter is when cozy interiors, hearty meals, and well made beer really stand out.

Popular local breweries include

  • Red Collar Brewing: One of the city’s most loved breweries, Red Collar is known for small batch, experimental beers and a fiercely loyal local following. It’s the kind of place where winter afternoons disappear fast.
  • Bright Eye Brewing: Bright Eye blends community energy with approachable craft beer. Located downtown, it’s an easy stop after skating or shopping and a great place to get a feel for Kamloops’ social scene.
  • Iron Road Brewing: Strong railway theme, Iron Road offers easy drinking beers and a relaxed atmosphere. Even in winter, it feels open and welcoming, making it a reliable stop for travellers and locals alike.

Notable food spots to add to a Kamloops winter itinerary include

  • Hello Toast: A go to for brunch and comfort food, Hello Toast is ideal for slow winter mornings. Creative breakfast dishes and strong coffee make it a staple before heading out to the hills.
  • The Noble Pig Brewhouse: Combining house brewed beer with elevated pub food, The Noble Pig is perfect for winter evenings. It’s lively without being overwhelming and consistently delivers satisfying, well executed meals.
  • Cordo Resto and Bar: For a more refined night out, Cordo offers Italian inspired dishes built around locally sourced ingredients. It’s a great option for travelers looking to balance adventure with a sit down dining experience.
  • Embers Brew House: Embers pairs craft beer with wood fired pizza in a relaxed, social setting. After a day of skiing or skating, it hits the sweet spot between casual and memorable.

Why Kamloops Belongs on Your Winter Travel List

Kamloops in winter feels genuine. It doesn’t try to be something it’s not, and that’s exactly why it works. You get access to serious skiing, local culture, and a food scene that punches above its weight, all without inflated prices or overcrowded streets.

For travellers looking to explore British Columbia beyond the usual winter hotspots, Kamloops offers a grounded, rewarding alternative. It’s a place where adventure fits naturally into daily life, and where winter feels like something to lean into rather than escape.

That balance is what we look for at FarOut Wilderness. Kamloops delivers it quietly, confidently, and year after year.