Everyone knows about the fantastic downhill skiing options in British Columbia. But beautiful BC is more than just steep slopes and unlimited powder. With its frozen lakes, mountain scenery, and all the outdoor adventure you could ever ask for, the BC Rockies are a natural playground like no other. It’s time to get outside and play in beautiful British Columbia!

Skate around the Lake

The Lake Windermere Whiteway is the world’s longest skating track. Skate the entire 31 km/19.2 mi loop or try some of the smaller loops for a shorter time on the water. The maintained skating track offers fantastic mountain scenery and a great way to connect to the natural beauty of the area. The Whiteway is also groomed for classic cross-country skiing, skate skiing, fat biking, and walking. Access this outdoor playground at Kinsmen Beach in Invermere or at Windermere Beach.

Explore Cross-Country

If skiing cross-country is your thing, there are so many beautiful places to explore on this side of the mountains. The Dawn Mountain Nordic Centre, located at the base of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, maintains 33 km/20.5 mi of trails with something for everyone. The Golden Golf Club maintains trails for classic cross-country skiing that are best suited for beginner or intermediate skiers. In the Columbia Valley, try skiing at the Lake Lillian Whiteway, Nipika Mountain Resort, or at Panorama Mountain Resort for maintained trails with great views.

Catch Some Fish

Get out on the lake for some ice fishing! Whether you’re pulling up trout or warming up with a hot chocolate in the hut, ice fishing is a great way to spend some quality time with family and friends. For some great spots to fish, try Lake Lillian or Whiteswan Lake. At Lake Windermere, the shallow water means you can often see the fish grabbing your lure, which makes for a great day of family fun. Make sure you know the regulations for fishing in BC and that you have the appropriate fishing license.

High Powered Adventure

Want a little more power in your adventure? Try snowmobiling! Take a tour to access some of the best snow in the area, or to learn the ropes if you’ve never tried it before. Rocky Mountain Riders offers snowmobile tours and rentals for everyone from first timers to extreme backcountry explorers. Have your own machines? Hire a guide to show you the best snow. In the Columbia Valley, Toby Creek Adventures has been offering guided snowmobile tours since 1996 on private land with expertly groomed trails. Book a tour to see what all the fuss is about!

Sit and Soak

Sometimes you need to relax. Soak in the natural mineral hot springs at Radium Hot Springs for a classic mountain experience. Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is a family-friendly resort with a large hot pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of outdoor adventure. If you’re staying at one of the lodging options at Panorama Mountain Resort, you can soak in the slopeside hot pools either Panorama Springs Lodge or the Toby Pool in the lower village.