8 Winter Activities to Enjoy Around Shuswap Lake

Dec 16, 2022

Shuswap Lake is a hidden gem in British Columbia and the perfect winter destination for nature lovers. While the area is known for its summertime activities, there are plenty of exciting things to do during the colder months too.

The photo looks down the lake shore of Shuswap Lake towards Copper Island. The photo is taken in winter, there is a bit of snow on the shore and the edges of the lake are frozen. The sky is overcast.

Here are 8 winter activities to enjoy around Shuswap Lake:

1. Cozy cabins time

There are so many great little cozy cabins around the Shuswap which are a great base camp for all your outdoor Shuswap adventures or for just getting cozy while the snow falls outside. Check out White Lake Cabins and Tin Poppy Retreat if you need a little winter retreat inspiration.

2. Snowmobiling

Explore the beautiful winter landscape on a snowmobile. There are many trails and scenic routes to choose from, making this a popular winter activity. The Shuswap is home to several sledding areas including Crowfoot Mountain, Eagle Pass, Fly HIlls and Spa Hills. Check out Sled Sicamous or Let's Ride BC for information about trailsin the area.

3. Skating

While Shuswap Lake did freeze enough in Salmon Arm to skate on it a few years ago, that doesn't happen every year. The good news is there are several outdoor rinks around the Shuswap located in Celista, Silver Creek, Sorrento and Parsons, perfect for ice skating with friends and family. ODRs are seriously the best.For information about conditions, the CSRD has conditions posted here.

A woman in a red sweater is standing on a frozen Shuswap Lake in Salmon Arm. Her arms are outstretched in celebration that the lake had frozen so calm and quick that it could be skated on.

4. Cross-Country Skiing

The Shuswap area has a variety of cross-country skiing trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Enjoy the peaceful winter environment while getting a good workout. Larch Hills is about 20km south east of Salmon Arm and has over 170km of ski trails, 57km of which are groomed. Skmana X-C Trails have 19km of trails around Skmana Lake.

5. Tobogganing

For a fun and active winter experience, hit the sledding hills in the area. There are plenty of sledding spots for people of all ages. Most elementary schools in the area have great little hills where you'll find families out after a fresh snow. Sarah at Shuswap Adventure Girl has a great list of her family's favourite spots all around the lake.

A teenage boy and a teenage girl sit on a sled at the bottom of a snowy hill

6. Snowshoeing

Take a walk in the winter wonderland with snowshoeing. There are many trails to explore, and snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors in a peaceful and quiet setting. Larch Hills has great snowshoe trails near Salmon Arm and there are also some nice trails near Skmana Lake.

A girl in a blue jacket snowshoes on a forest trail at the Larch Hills Cross Country Ski Area near Salmon Arm British Columbia

7. Hot Springs

Head a little east on the TCH and find Crazy Creek or head south of Revelstoke to Halcyon Hot Springs or Nakusp Hot Springs. Soak up the warmth and beauty of nature at one of the hot springs in the Shuswap area. This is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of winter activities.

8. Winter Festivals & Events

Throughout the winter, there are several festivals and events taking place in the Shuswap area, including the Salmon Arm Winter Fun Fest, North Shuswap Winterfest in Scotch Creek which includes the annual bed races, and the Enderby Winter Festival. These events are a great way to enjoy the winter season with family and friends.

Shuswap Lake is the perfect winter destination for those who love the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a good time, there's something for everyone in this beautiful winter wonderland.