With wonderful snow conditions, beautiful sunny winter days, and world-class ski resorts, BC’s Thompson Okanagan region is a popular destination for those seeking winter. If you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable vacation experience, go dog sledding with one of the region’s many operators. Here are three dog sledding adventures to choose from, courtesy of the staff at the BC Visitor Centre @ Merritt.
1. CANDLE CREEK DOG SLED TOURS – BIG WHITE SKI RESORT
A dog sled adventure through Big White’s backcountry with Candle Creek Dog Sledding. Photo: Candle Creek Dog Sledding
Candle Creek Dog Sled Tours is located at Big White Ski Resort, 62 km (38.5 mi) outside of Kelowna. They offer fun dog sledding excursions through Big White’s picturesque backcountry. The 1.5-2 hour-long tour begins with an orientation on harnessing, sleds, and an introduction to the dogs, then you get to head out and enjoy the snow. Travel through deep forest and experience Big White like never before.
2. MOUNTAIN MAN DOG SLED ADVENTURES – SUN PEAKS RESORT
Touring through the snow-covered trees with Mountain Man Dog Sled Adventures. Photo: Mary Putnam
Sun Peaks Resort is located 58 km (36 mi) from Kamloops. This beautiful alpine village is home to Mountain Man Dog Sled Adventures where you can experience the power of Alaskan Huskies pulling you through the resort’s winter wonderland. The guides make sure that guests know everything they need to about the dogs and sleds, and offer you the choice of driving the sled yourself or having a guide take the reins. They offer 1.5-hour tours throughout the day, as well as a 45-minute evening ride, leaving daily at 5:00 pm.
3. BIG BEAR TOURS – LUMBY
Big Bear Tours brings over 25 years of experience to their dog sledding tours. They’re located 27 km (17 mi) from Vernon, in the small but scenic community of Lumby. Go for an 8-km (5-mi) cross-country ski, snowshoe, or hike through the mountainside with five furry Malamutes keeping you company. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, head out on Big Bear’s two-day tour which includes a 4-course steak dinner, breakfast and lunch the next day, plus a day of ice fishing (gear provided). This tour is perfect for the avid outdoorsman and gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with the beautiful nature of BC’s North Okanagan.
