Things to do in Kamloops in January
Kamloops
Bonnie Pryce
And just like that, January has arrived. As we step into a new year, a winter wonderland of possibilities waiting for you in Kamloops.
The snow may be blanketing the landscape, but it's not hibernation time here – so bundle up and get your adventure resolution list ready! Visiting Kamloops in January is a journey of exploration and adventure in the heart of British Columbia.
Sun Peaks Resort
Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe
Skiing & Snowboarding
Sitting squarely between two ski hills, Kamloops is the ideal destination for ski-bums this January. Only 20 minutes from Harper Mountain and less than an hour's drive from Sun Peaks Resort, Kamloops offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in British Columbia
Sun Peaks Resort
As Canada's 2nd largest skiing area, Sun Peaks Resort is a top destination on many skiers' bucket lists! With 4,720 acres of skiable terrain across three mountains, plus cross country skiing, snowshoe trails, dog sledding and more, there's a winter outdoor adventure for everyone at Sun Peaks. The European style village is home to some incredible local cuisine, so you can find the perfect place to warm up after your outdoor adventures this winter.
On January 3rd-5th, Sun Peaks hosts Speed Nation, welcoming some of the fastest Snowboard Cross racers in North America. Spectators are welcome to cheer on some of the best SBX athletes in the world.
The Sun Peaks Park Crew presents The Stoke Series – Session Two on January 10th. Skiers and boarders of all styles are welcome to compete, collect points towards the series grand prize and celebrate park culture!
Find more great events at Sun Peaks this January on their website.
Harper Mountain
@hashtagmeag
Harper Mountain
Skip the crowds at Kamloops' own Harper Mountain. This locally owned ski hill is a short 20 minute drive from downtown Kamloops, and features a terrain park, night skiing, tubing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing in addition to the downhill.
Harper Mountain
Dylan Sherrard
Harper Mountain
Mary Putnam
Tubing at Harper
Not ready for the full mountain? Harper Mountain is home to the Snow Town Tube Park, making it the perfect place for family friendly activities. With a lift to tow you up – and gravity to take care of the rest – tubing is the skill-free, no-equipment-needed winter adventure you always wanted. Enjoy high-speed thrills and the big belly laughs that only a winter day in Kamloops can provide.
Stake Lake Ski Trails
Tamra Jaeger
Cross country skiing at Stake Lake
Get your glide on with the Overlander Ski Club this winter. The club maintains over 60 km of groomed trails around the natural beauty of Stake Lake, including a 5 km pet-friendly loop where you and Rover can both roam free.
Only 20 minutes from Kamloops, the cross country skiing at Stake Lake is a must-do this winter. With 7 km of lit trails for night skiing, it's easy to find time to hit the trails. Keep an eye on their website, or follow the Overlander ski club on facebook for updated hours and conditions.
January sees the beginning of the Masters' Ski Clinics with the Overland Ski Club – Find dates on their website, and keep an eye out for more details.
Stake Lake
Peter Olsen
Winter hiking, biking & snowshoeing
The great outdoors doesn't close for the winter – you can hike or bike through the Thompson Valley all year long.
Kenna Cartwright Nature Park has the distinction of being British Columbia's largest municipal park, and is home to 40 km of multi-use trails. As a popular destination for winter hiking and fat biking, the sagebrush hills and panoramic views of Kenna Cartwright Nature Park welcome outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes.
In Kamloops, we know mountain biking season never really ends – we just switch to the fat bike and keep on pedalling! The Isobel Lake Recreational Trails are groomed for fat biking through the winter, so you can get the true local experience. These trails are free to use, but consider donating to the local bike organizations to maintain them through the winter.
Buse Hill
Corey Miller
Snowshoe trails in Kamloops
Winter hiking in is definitely easier with a pair of snowshoes! You can find rentals and get snowshoeing at both Harper Mountain and Stake Lake. Both locations maintain trails dedicated to snowshoeing, so you can get hiking into the natural beauty of the region without losing your footing.
Snowshoe rentals are also available at Runners' Sole, conveniently found near the upper entrance to Kenna Cartwright park.
Sun Peaks Resort also welcomes snowshoeing on dedicated trails, and offers rentals and guided tours through the resort area, making this a great place to get hiking this winter! Experience the beauty of the British Columbia interior's spectacular winters and hit the trails this January.
Ice Fishing
Get the gang together and reel in a winter catch – Kamloops boast prime ice fishing at a multitude of locations.
Paul Lake Provincial Park is open year round, and any seasoned angler will tell you it's the place to be for ice fishing. This well-stocked lake is known for it's thick ice and the size of fish it produces. Book your January getaway at The Spot on Paul Lake to enjoy convenient ice access and a cozy sauna afterwards!
Lac le Jeune
Dave Falcon
Lac Le Jeune welcomes anglers in every season. Cozy up at the resort and enjoy meals at the Evergreen Bistro & Bar, or book your own cabin. Lac le Jeune Resort provides easy access to a range of outdoor activities, from legendary ice fishing and ice skating to cross country skiing at nearby Stake Lake.
Be safe and follow ice aware guidelines before any icy outdoor activities.
Kamloops Snowmobile Adventures
Kamloops Snowmobile Adventures
Snowmobile Adventures
Kamloops' newest guided backcountry experience is here – Kamloops Snowmobile Adventures offers sled rentals, guided tours, and sled and bed package. Whether you're new to the sport or hauling in your own prized sled, Kamloops Snowmobile Adventures is ready to take you on the ride of your life.
The Porcupine Ridge and Tranquille Bonaparte Plateau area are home to thousands of acres of pristine sub-alpine, low-slope terrain – with zero avalanche risk. The nine warm-up huts and numerous groomed trails make this location ideal for families who ride, and the endless meadow complexes offer more challenging rides to experienced riders.
The staging area is less than hour's drive from Kamloops, making the city the perfect place to crash at the end of a long day in the snow! Experience the true beauty of the Kamloops region paired with the high-speed thrill of snowmobiling this winter, and wrap it all up with a hot meal and cozy bed at the end of the day.
Kamloops Art Gallery
Mary Putnam
Arts, culture, cuisine & events
With local art galleries, live music, theatre, and plenty of mouthwatering local cuisine, Kamloops offers and eclectic mix of outdoor activities and creative things to do. From the Kamloops farmers market to art exhibits and craft beer aplenty, Kamloops hits that sweet spot of combining natural beauty and rich local culture.
The Kamloops Art Gallery
As a Category “A” institution under the Cultural Property Export and Import Act, the Kamloops Art Gallery is renowned for their curated art exhibits, community enrichment programs, and contributions to local art and culture. Find the Art Gallery downtown Kamloops on Victoria Street.
On January 18th, the Kamloops Art Gallery opens two new shows that promise to impress. Ithin-eh-wuk–we place ourselves at the center, by James Nicholas and Sandra Semchuck opens in the main gallery, presenting a dialogue on colonialism through the artists' intercultural marriage and family experiences. In the Cube gallery space, artist-in-residence Casey Koyczan presents Dream; Nàte, which explores a dream that led him on a journey from Yellowknife to Kamloops, and the experiences that resulted.
Kamloops Symphony Orchestra
Dylan Sherrard
Kamloops Symphony Orchestra Presents: The Who & Led Zeppelin
On January 10th and 11th, the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra and guests Jeans n' Classics perform selections from the Who and Led Zeppelin. Blending classic rock with the power of a full orchestra, this promises to be a stunning musical experience.
Western Canada Theatre
Opening January 23rd, the WCT presents Liars at a Funeral – an irreverent dark comedy that follows a dysfunctional family to the funeral (or is it?) of matriarch Mavis and the ensuring shenanigans. Secret identities are revealed, hidden truths emerge, and family curses are exposed. Join the WCT for this side-splitting farce that will have you laughing at life, death and family.
The Western Canada Theatre has been delighting audiences with world-class professional live theatre since 1975, and is a true local gem. Experience the excitement and fun of live theatre this winter with the WCT, and keep an eye on their events calendar for more great experiences at the Sagebrush Theatre.
Romeos Kitchen + Spirits
Mary Putnam
Bright Eye Brewing
Dylan Sherrard
Local Cuisine
Warm up with a hot meal and award-winning brew at one of Kamloops' many great places to eat and drink. The adventure doesn't stop once you're indoors – explore creative menus and local ingredients across town.
Dine in an igloo
Romeos Kitchen + Spirits welcomes diners to enjoy their scenic patio and mouthwatering menu throughout the winter season from their cozy igloos. Indulge in the locally-inspired casual dining experience curated by Red Seal chef Romeo Oloresisimo, while staying warm in your own private igloo this winter!
Explore craft beers
For delicious brews on tap – and mouthwatering fried crispy pickles! – stop by the Noble Pig this January. The Noble Pig serves some of downtown Kamloops' best craft beers and incredible meals, making them a great place to end your day.
Across the Thompson river in Kamloops' North Shore neighbourhood, visit Bright Eye Brewing. This fun brewpub always has a range of creative craft beers to sample, with a legendary menu to back them up. Local tip – try the pretzel knots!
Taste Around British Columbia
Stay tuned for the participating restaurants in this season's Taste Around event. Local restaurants throughout British Columbia provide specialty menus during this promotion, making it the perfect time to dine out and try the best Kamloops has to offer.
Kamloops Winter Farmers Market
The Kamloops Farmers Market is now on winter hours, and can be found indoors at the Mount Paul Community Food Centre. Hosting a wide range of produce, organic foods, and local artisan goods, the Kamloops Farmers Market is the best place to find the true abundance of the region.
BC Wildlife Park
Peter Olsen
Wildlights at BC Wildlife Park
Did you miss the enchanting sparkle of Wildlights in December? Fear not, for the magic continues until January 5th! Each year, the spectacle at the BC Wildlife Park gets even more dazzling, and this year's display is the brightest yet. With over 1 million lights, endless photo opportunities, and exciting new light displays, Wildlights – presented by MJB Lawyers – is back to illuminate the night.
This is a ticket price you can feel good about, as all proceeds support the BC Wildlife Park. The park is dedicated to the rehabilitation of orphaned and injured wildlife, and operates the only full service wildlife rehabilitation centre in the BC southern interior. The BC Wildlife Park accepts over 600 wildlife patients annually, and is home to nearly 200 animals who cannot be released into the wild for various reasons. While many of their tenants are deep in hibernation, you'll still have the opportunity to meet some of the residents at Wildlights!
Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in a radiant wonderland, happening nightly January 1st - 5th, starting at 4:30pm at the BC Wildlife Park, 9077 Dallas Drive.
The Snowed In Comedy Tour
Who doesn't love a good laugh? Now in its sixteenth year, the Snowed In Comedy Tour has evolved into Canada's largest comedy tour, covering 70 cities coast to coast. A true Canadian success story, this thriving comedy tour has successfully performed across the globe, including successful performances in Australia, the US, France, and Switzerland.
Join Just for Laughs winner Dan Quinn, Paul Myrehaug (Great Canadian Laugh Off winner) and 6 time Canadian Comedian of the year nominee, Pete Zedlacher, with special guest Erica Sigurdson (over 70 appearances on the Debaters).
Buy your tickets here for January 3rd or 64th, 7:30pm at the Sagebrush Theatre!
Privato Vineyard & Winery
Beth Taylor
Harvest Table Wine Dinners
The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre invites you to a west coast culinary journey with their Harvest Table Wine Dinner Series. Each event features a different winery, and January 22nd centres on our own Privato Vineyard & Winery. Savour the experience of exceptional local wines from the Privato Vineyard, paired with thoughtful three-course dinners by the culinary team at the Grand.
Steven Lee Olsen with JoJo Mason at the Grotto
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Steven Lee Olsen plays at the Blue Grotto downtown Kamloops on January 19th, bringing his blend of R&B and soul-inspired country to the stage. Olsen's songwriting credits includes hits for Keith Urban, Garth Brooks, Rascal Flatts and many others, and his solo career has continued on this success with multiple Top 10 singles.
SonReal: All Things Aside Tour at Nightshift on 5th
Canadian sing, songwriter, rapper and artist SonReal brings the All Things Aside tour to Kamloops on January 28th. SonReal always brings a high-energy set to get audiences moving, so get ready to dance your face off at Nightshift on 5th!
Harper Mountain
Mary Putnam
Ready for the New Year?
January is truly the perfect time to slow down, take in the fresh air and set the stage for an amazing year ahead. Whether you're relaxing by the fire or breaking trails to new adventure, be sure to take time for yourself, connect with loved one, and most of all – have fun! The mild winters and frosty sagebrush hills of Kamloops are calling your name.
Looking for local insights on skiing, hiking or other things to do in our community? Our team at Tourism Kamloops is here to help – contact the visitor service team here, or message us on social media with any questions! Keep an eye out for our Roam Rangers street team at local events for in-person conversations. Everyone on our team loves this city and region and is looking forward to welcoming you.
Don't forget to keep us in the 'Loop with your incredible adventures this holiday season. Snap those memorable moments and share your journey with us by tagging @tourismkamloops and using the hashtag #ExploreKamloops
