Summer in Sun Peaks

Discover Sun Peaks in Summer

During the warmer months, Sun Peaks takes on a different rhythm. Chairlifts still run, but instead of skis and boards, they carry bikes and hikers. Events move outdoors, mountain trails reopen, and alpine wildflowers blanket the slopes. This shift opens the door to longer days, minimal gear, and a wider range of summer experiences built around the winter resort’s layout.

Alpine Hiking: Trails and Chairlift Access

Sun Peaks offers 22 marked hiking trails, many of which begin with a chairlift ride on the Sunburst Express. The lift climbs to 1,850 metres, where a network of trails spreads across the landscape. Routes are colour-coded by difficulty and clearly signed, allowing hikers to choose between subalpine meadows, ridge walks, and summit climbs.

The Alpine Blossom Season—typically from mid-July to mid-August—is a peak time for hiking. During these weeks, wildflowers fill the meadows, creating colourful scenes across the upper slopes. Trails like Crystal Bowl Loop highlight these displays, while longer routes such as Tod Lake Trail and Juniper Ridge Loop offer quieter terrain and expansive views.

Trail maps are available online and at the base of the Sunburst Express. Many hikers bring cameras, pack lunches, and keep an eye out for wildlife. Though bears are rarely seen on popular trails, hikers are expected to carry bear spray and travel in groups when possible.

Mountain Biking on Lift-Access Trails

The Sun Peaks Bike Park features over 84 kilometres of trails and 595 metres of lift-accessed vertical. Riders start from the top of Tod or Sundance Mountain, with options ranging from beginner flow trails to steep, technical descents. All riders must use the lift to access trails and are required to wear helmets.

Recent years have seen major growth in the bike park, with new additions like Canada Line and Level Up for intermediate riders, and advanced options like Gnar-Boom and Honey Drop for those seeking a challenge. Beginners can build confidence at the Progression Park before moving to larger trails. Rentals, lessons, and repairs are available through local shops such as Elevation.

The biking season begins in mid-June and runs through September. Peak activity falls between Canada Day and Labour Day, when lift hours are extended and the trail crew is busiest with maintenance and improvements.

Golfing at British Columbia's Highest Course

The Sun Peaks Golf Course, sitting at 1,200 metres, is known for cooler temperatures and added distance on drives due to the thinner air. This 18-hole, par-72 course, designed by Graham Cooke, winds through forests and open terrain, offering a mix of tight shots and forgiving fairways.

Golfers often notice how their shots carry farther at elevation, requiring adjustments in club selection. The course layout includes bunkers, water features, and rolling greens. Early tee times are popular for avoiding afternoon winds. Club rentals, carts, and full-service amenities are available at the course entrance.

The course typically opens in early June and continues through early October, depending on snowmelt. Bookings can be made online, and early reservations are recommended during summer weekends and event periods.

Events and Music Through the Summer

Sun Peaks runs a packed summer calendar filled with markets, concerts, and seasonal celebrations. Most events take place in the main village and are free to attend, encouraging a casual, walkable experience for visitors.

The season opens with Summersgiving and the Solstice Celebration in late June—featuring community yoga, wellness workshops, and a large outdoor meal. Weekly staples include Friday night concerts at the main stage and Sunday markets showcasing local produce and handmade goods. July brings Rockin’ in the Peaks, with Canadian bands like Big Sugar and 54-40, while August hosts the Endless Summer Festival, which blends DJs and acoustic performances.

Schedules are published in spring and updated throughout the summer. The Sun Peaks Centre Stage website is the best place for lineup details and access info.

Where to Eat in the Village

Dining in Sun Peaks over the summer is casual, accessible, and mostly concentrated in the central village. Most restaurants shift to patio seating when the weather allows and often tie into the weekend music events.

5Forty Café & Grill serves breakfast through dinner and is known for consistent hours and a wide menu. Masa’s Bar + Grill hosts Music Bingo nights and serves pub-style meals throughout the day. A handful of places rotate specials with seasonal ingredients, while others stay consistent with year-round staples.

Reservations are rarely needed outside of major events. Hours can change with weather and foot traffic, so most diners check online listings or ask at their lodging for daily info.

Accommodation Options for Summer Stays

Sun Peaks offers a range of summer lodging, from resort hotels to vacation rentals. The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel sits directly in the main plaza and connects to restaurants, shops, and lifts. For a quieter option, Sun Peaks Lodge offers standard rooms a short walk from the village centre.

Longer stays and family visits often focus on vacation condos or townhomes managed by places like Cahilty Lodge or independent rental services. These units often include kitchenettes, gear storage, and covered parking. Many properties offer summer promotions, such as stay-five-pay-for-four or package deals with lift tickets.

Accommodations fill quickly during summer weekends and festivals. Booking two or three months ahead secures better rates and preferred locations.

Extra Activities Outside the Core

Beyond the key draws of hiking, biking, and golf, Sun Peaks offers water sports, horseback riding, and wellness services. Kayaking and canoeing are available on nearby lakes, with gear rentals in the village. Most paddlers aim for early morning outings to avoid wind and motorboat traffic.

Guided horseback rides explore the surrounding hills on old logging roads and maintained trails. These tours often cater to beginners and are led by experienced handlers. For recovery or rest days, visitors can book massages, spa treatments, or attend outdoor yoga classes offered during event weekends.

Fishing, trail running, and early morning photography are common among return visitors. Wildlife sightings include marmots, deer, and mountain birds, with large animal encounters uncommon near high-traffic areas.

Planning Your Summer Visit

The busiest and most active period in Sun Peaks runs from mid-July to mid-August. This stretch overlaps with wildflower season, expanded event programming, and consistent lift operations. During this time, the Sunburst Express runs daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. After Labour Day, operating hours shorten and services wind down for fall.

Booking lodging, lift access, and gear rentals ahead of time helps avoid peak pricing. Most visitors drive up from Kamloops or Vancouver, with free parking available in village lots. Public transit options are limited, so a car is helpful for reaching trailheads or lakes outside the village core.

Trail maps, event calendars, and lift updates are all available on the official Sun Peaks Resort website. Most businesses also post real-time updates on social media.

Closing Thoughts

Summer in Sun Peaks runs on trail systems, lift access, and outdoor spaces. The landscape invites movement, whether on foot, by bike, or during an outdoor concert. With snow gone and the slopes open, the resort shifts into a quieter but equally full and exciting season.