The Mountain and Its Terrain
Sun Peaks is Canada's second-largest ski area, with 4,270 acres of skiable terrain spread across three distinct mountains. Tod Mountain, Sundance Mountain, and Mount Morrisey each offer unique experiences that cater to a broad range of skiers and snowboarders. Tod Mountain features steep runs and glades suited to experienced riders, while Sundance Mountain provides long, smooth trails that are ideal for beginners and intermediates. Mount Morrisey combines cruisers and gladed terrain, allowing for steady progression and variety in each session.
The resort has a vertical drop of 881 metres and over 135 trails. The terrain mix is divided into 10% beginner, 58% intermediate, and 32% advanced or expert. Each mountain features its own lift access, with a network of 13 lifts that keeps the flow of skiers moving and helps spread them efficiently across the slopes.
Notable Runs Across the Three Mountains
Each mountain at Sun Peaks includes standout runs that showcase the character of the terrain. On Tod Mountain, "5 Mile" stands out for its length and accessibility to beginners. Starting from the top and stretching to the village base, it offers a long, consistent descent that works well for newcomers and those warming up early in the day. For those looking for more intensity, "Chief" and "Exhibition" deliver steeper pitches and uninterrupted fall lines that attract advanced skiers.
Sundance Mountain features "Fair Dinkum," a broad, groomed trail that starts off gently before opening into wider, faster sections. It creates a smooth progression for skiers gaining confidence. Another popular run, "Homesteader," is used frequently in lessons due to its consistent pitch and direct access from the lift, making it a practical and comfortable option for learners.
Mount Morrisey presents a range of glades and flowing runs. "Mid-Life Crisis" moves through tree-lined sections and open slopes, offering a rhythm that rewards smooth transitions and steady control. "Showboat" offers quiet, spacious turns and a sense of open space, especially on weekdays. For those branching into glade skiing, "Lint Trap" and "Static Cling" provide moderate tree runs suited to upper-intermediate skiers who want to build skills without excessive difficulty.
Snowfall and Lift System
Sun Peaks receives close to 6 metres of snow each year. The interior location of the resort helps maintain dry, light powder and steady conditions across the season. Grooming teams maintain surface quality consistently, while snowmaking supplements coverage in high-traffic areas.
The lift network includes high-speed quads, surface lifts, and a gondola, with routes arranged to support smooth travel across the resort. The addition of the West Bowl Express has made it easier to reach advanced terrain, easing traffic on surrounding lifts and opening new descent options. With interconnected areas, guests can explore all three mountains without needing to return to the village between runs.
Learning and Freestyle Terrain
Sun Peaks provides structured lesson programs suited to all ability levels. Beginner packages include gear rental, lift access, and instruction, helping new skiers get started with minimal hassle. Multi-day options are available for those looking to advance quickly. Group and private lessons are led by instructors certified through Canadian ski and snowboard associations, ensuring quality guidance throughout.
Four terrain park zones cater to freestyle riders at varying levels. These include a variety of rails, boxes, and jumps maintained throughout the season. Entry-level parks are designed for safe learning environments, while advanced setups cater to seasoned freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Located on Sundance and Mount Morrisey, the parks evolve regularly based on rider feedback and snow conditions.
Accommodations and Dining
Many accommodations at Sun Peaks provide ski-in/ski-out access, offering direct links from rooms to the slopes. The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Centre delivers full-service lodging with equipment storage, onsite dining, and immediate lift access. Sundance Lodge, based at the foot of Sundance Express, includes rentals and dining options right in the building. Condos and vacation homes across the village provide flexible space for groups and families.
Dining covers both fast and full-service formats. Bolacco Café serves hot drinks and light meals near the lifts. Mantles Restaurant offers seasonal menus in a relaxed dining space, while Bottoms Bar & Grill is a main stop for après-ski with casual food and local drinks. Mountain High Pizza serves hearty meals with quick turnaround, making them a favourite for those on the go. During peak travel times, reservations are recommended at popular locations to avoid delays.
Events and Winter Activities
The event calendar at Sun Peaks features ski races, freestyle contests, and live music. Spring Snow Fest closes out the season with a mix of competitions and entertainment. Holiday periods bring torchlight parades, fireworks, and seasonal programming that appeals to families and visitors of all ages.
For those looking for activities beyond downhill skiing, there are snowshoeing and Nordic trails that extend into forested areas and toward McGillivray Lake. Equipment rentals are available from the Nordic Centre, which also provides trail maps and information. Tubing near Sundance Base offers a no-skill alternative with a lift and prepared lanes, drawing families and groups seeking variety.
Getting There and Lift Passes
Sun Peaks is located about 45 minutes by car from Kamloops. The nearby airport offers direct flights from cities such as Vancouver and Calgary. Shuttle services connect the airport to the resort. For those driving, both paid and complimentary parking is available near the village base.
Lift passes are offered for single and multiple days. Season pass holders benefit from discounts on rentals, food, and retail purchases. All passes use RFID cards, which are reloadable online for ease of access. Sun Peaks also participates in multi-resort programs like the Mountain Collective, which gives broader access across several destinations in North America.
Conclusion
Sun Peaks delivers a complete mountain experience with enough variety to satisfy beginners, intermediates, and advanced riders alike. The combination of expansive terrain, steady snow conditions, and a well-planned village layout makes it a resort that’s easy to return to year after year.
If your goal is to sharpen skills, explore new runs, or simply enjoy time with family and friends in a well-organized alpine setting, Sun Peaks offers a practical and rewarding destination. It stands out not just for what it offers on the slopes, but for how seamlessly everything comes together off them.
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