Longer daylight hours, bluebird pow days, goggle tans, live music and patio après sessions. These are the moments that ski trip dreams are made of. The season of rebirth is just around the corner and it’s time to start planning your spring ski trip. We’ve rounded up a list of must-do activities and events to enjoy on your next visit.
Schuss Into Spring
We can’t talk about spring at Silver Star without mentioning the incredible Nordic and downhill skiing. Don’t be fooled by the date on the calendar—it’s still common to get powder days into April. In fact, the abundance of all-natural snow is the reason why our lengthy season runs November through April.
Whether you fancy fresh corduroy, terrain park laps or cruising through champagne powder, SilverStar Mountain Resort’s downhill slopes deliver the goods. Nordic and skate skiers looking to glide along Canada’s largest continuously groomed network of cross-country trails will be treated to dazzling sunsets and fresh tracks.
Celebrate Sport and Culture at SEISMIC
The Monashee Mountains will be rockin’ when SEISMIC Festival storms into town this spring. The mountain culture celebration runs over the last 10 days of the winter season (March 29 April 7), bringing with it sporting events, live entertainment, beer gardens and the Sovereign2SilverStar Ski Marathon. Follow SilverStar Mountain Resort for all up-to-date schedules.
Pride Day (March 10, 2024)
Get ready for a day jammed packed full of events and activities including live music, Drag Bingo and a whole lot of fun!
Sovereign2SilverStar Ski Marathon (April 6-7, 2024)
The Nordic skiing season is the gift that keeps on giving, thanks to consistent Okanagan snowfall each season. The third-annual S2S, as it is affectionately referred to, builds upon the success of last year’s inaugural event with an anticipated 1,000 participants from around the world. A self-proclaimed “point to party” event, the Nordic race brings skiers on an incredible course route from Sovereign Lake to Silver Star Village. No need to be a pro skier—finishing the race is an accomplishment on its own and medals are awarded to all. The event features events for both classic and skate skiing, as well as two distances each day (40km and 21km/ 25 miles and 13 miles). Whether you’re participating in the race or supporting the competitors, stay at Silver Star for the weekend to immerse yourself in the excitement.
Sunny Après Sessions
Après is practically its own sport in ski towns and there are plenty of local haunts to explore at Silver Star, each with its own character and charm. When the weather is warm and the sunnies come out, hit a sun-drenched patio in the heart of the Village for people watching, fun vibes, and a taste of Okanagan food and drink.
With a sizable patio overlooking the village and innovative international cuisine, The Bulldog Grand Cafe is perfect for larger groups. Just across the street, Black Pine Social serves up eclectic tasting plates and a curated drinks menu with craft beer, Okanagan wine, and artisan cocktails. The Red Antler, nestled in the Vance Creek Lodge, is a great place to try mouth-watering pub favourites on a patio nook that’s perfect for regaling the day’s adventures.
Play From Peak to Valley On Multi-Activity Days
Spring comes early to the Okanagan, making this the perfect season to enjoy multi-activity days. Hit the slopes of SilverStar Mountain Resort in the mornings, then head to the valley below, where you can explore the Vernon area and get a taste of the North Okanagan. Driving down the road, you’ll literally see the change of seasons from snow-capped Monashee Mountains to a green and lush valley below.
Spend time in the town of Vernon, the Trails Capital of BC and home to boutique coffee shops, food trucks, record stores, and unique cultural experiences.
By mid- to late-spring, the North Okanagan trails are primed for hiking and riding. The trail network is well-maintained by NOCS, one of British Columbia’s fastest growing multi-use trail organizations. This is the perfect time to explore before the heat of the summer sets in. Walk the cedar-lined trails of the riparian zone that borders BX Creek and Falls Trail. Hear the roar of the water as it rushes down from the mountains during spring thaw. Bird watchers can visit the trails around Swan Lake to find an array of species returning to their spring nesting grounds.
Extend your stay to sip and savour the best of BC. Spring is a fantastic time for culinary adventures before the summer rush. The Okanagan is a treasure trove of wineries, distilleries, cideries and renowned restaurants, all within a short drive of Vernon and Silver Star.
Though the seasons are shifting by March and April, Silver Star Village still offers a charming winter atmosphere thanks to its mid-mountain location at 1,600m (5,200 feet). When your day trip to the valley wraps up, you can head back up the mountain road to a cozy winter wonderland where a hot tub and hot chocolate await.
Tips for Spring Travel
- Plan your visit for mid-week for the best deals and fewer visitors
- Extend your stay to make the most of your trip
- Book outside of BC Spring Break (March 18-29, 2024)
- Reserve dining ahead of time to secure a spot
- Bring your sunscreen!
Photo credits: Lianne Viau, Jackson Parker, Jordan McGrath, Brian Goldstone, Robb Thompson, SilverStar Mountain Resort
