Pemberton & Area Winter Activities
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Pemberton Winter Activity Guide
Winter in Pemberton is nothing short of magical. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to tranquil, family-friendly activities, this charming town in British Columbia’s stunning landscape offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a family looking for winter fun, or someone who enjoys the quiet beauty of winter, Pemberton is the perfect destination.
Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of winter in Pemberton.
Snowmobiling & Sled Skiing
Pemberton is renowned for its exceptional sled skiing and snowmobiling terrain, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Head to the famous Rutherford and Hurley Trailheads for an unforgettable experience. Imagine the exhilaration of heli-skiing or cat-skiing but with you in control, riding your snowmobile to access untouched powder. Local companies like Broken Boundary Adventures offer guided tours, ensuring you hit the best spots safely.
Remember, avalanche safety gear is a must. If you’re new to the backcountry, consider taking an Avalanche Skills Training course to prepare.
Avalanche Skills Training Courses
- Sled AST 1 with Broken Boundary Adventures
- Whistler Blackcomb AST 1+ with Extremely Canadian
- Backcountry Progression Course with Altus Mountain Guides
Top Pemberton Snowmobiling Spots
- Rutherford Creek
- Pemberton Ice Cap
- Meager Creek
- Hurley Trailhead
- Bralorne
- Gold Bridge
- Face Mountain
- Salal Creek
Ice Fishing
When you think of Canada, what springs to mind? Many have said ice fishing is the most Canadian thing they’ve ever heard of. Who else would willingly bundle up in 18 layers, cut a hole in the ice in hopes of catching a fish? Canadians.
It’s time to layer up to get the authentic Canadian experience; the experts at Pemberton Fish Finders will take you to the best fishing holes in the Sea to Sky region.
Fish for Rainbow trout, Bull trout, Kokanee, Cutthroat, and Pike minnows, some trout reach up to 10lbs. Don’t forget your camera; reeling in the big one is a moment you won’t want to miss sharing with your friends!
If you are looking for a little more action, you can fly fish for Steelhead in the Pemberton rivers. The Steelhead runs from November until April; they can reach 24-42” and weigh up to 35lbs. Don’t miss out on this unique BC experience that you’ll talk about for years to come!
Popular Ice Fishing Lakes
- Ivy Lake
- Birkenhead Lake
Snowshoeing & Winter Hikes
Snowshoeing is an excellent way to explore Pemberton’s winter landscapes at a slower pace.
Trails like the Joffre Lakes are perfect for a winter hike, offering stunning views of frozen lakes and snow-covered forests. This activity is accessible to all skill levels and is a great way to spend time with family or friends.
Winter hiking in Pemberton is not just about the physical challenge; it’s about immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the landscape. Check trail conditions and bring appropriate gear for safety, including crampons and trekking poles.
Popular Snowshoe Hike Spots
- Joffre Lakes
- Nairn Falls
- Cayoosh Creek
Ice Skating
Another beloved Canadian pastime in the winter is ice skating! Pemberton has several local lakes that are great for outdoor skating when the conditions are right. You can also visit Whistler Olympic Plaza, in the heart of the Village, to enjoy the maintained outdoor ice skating rink.
However, if the weather isn’t on your side and you still want to lace up your blades, you can visit Meadow Park Sports Centre for year-round indoor ice skating.
Popular Skating Lakes
- One Mile Lake
- Gates Lake
Heli-Ski Touring
For the most experienced backcountry skiers/riders, try booking a Heli-Charter in the surrounding Pemberton area. Many locals dream of one day skiing these impressive mountains. So gather four of your best backcountry mates, create a trip plan, study the avalanche conditions, and book a charter.
These charters are a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that friends and family will envy for years.
Now, don’t be fooled; a lot of preparation is necessary for the success of these trips. Ensure you have all the avalanche safety gear, tuned touring skis or split-board, emergency gear, ropes, harnesses, and a GPS or Inreach. Most importantly, know your route and include an alternative descent just in case the conditions are variable.
Companies like Extremely Canadian and Blackcomb Helicopters offer guided tours to some of the most breathtaking and remote locations around Mount Currie. Spend the day carving fresh tracks in deep powder with the stunning Coast Mountains as your backdrop.
Cozy Indoor Activities
If you prefer to stay warm and cozy, Pemberton has plenty of indoor activities to offer.
Visit the Pemberton & District Public Library for a quiet afternoon of reading or join one of their community events. Ivy Esthetics provides a range of spa services for a bit of pampering, which is perfect for relaxing after a day in the snow.
For a more active option, the Pemberton Community Fitness Centre offers a range of workout equipment and facilities.
Here at Pemberton Valley Lodge, we have a fitness studio on the main floor that our guests can use. The weights and cardio equipment include a multi-station weight training machine, free weights, an elliptical trainer, and treadmill equipment. Guests can also relax in our steam room and hot tub.
Cross-Country Skiing
Pemberton’s cross-country skiing trails are a great option for those looking to enjoy a quieter day in the snow.
Take the family for a fun race around Pemberton’s cross-country tracks. Located just south of Pemberton, Nairn Falls campground trails are groomed for pristine classic or skate skiing each morning. The cross-country trails are maintained by local cross-country enthusiasts volunteering for the Spud Valley Nordic Association.
Rejoice in breathtaking views of Mount Currie while you enjoy a fresh cider from the Beer Farmers as you take a lap on their family-owned farm. This fourth-generation family farm has built a network of trails the length of their farm, including tracks that follow along the Pemberton River.
Down the road from the Pemberton Valley Lodge, North Arm Farms lies with freshly plowed tracks for cross-country skiing. Stay and indulge in the lunch special and a delicious coffee. Look through their wide variety of winter farm produce as Mount Currie sparkles in the distance.
Top Cross-Country Ski Spots
- Nairn Falls Campground
- The Beer Farmers
- North Arm Farm
Tobogganing
Grab a sled and hit the hills around Pemberton for some good old-fashioned winter fun.
The Signal Hill Elementary and Community Centre Hill are perfect for kids, while One Mile Lake Hill offers a steeper ride for those looking for a bit more excitement.
Don’t have a sled? You can easily pick one up in town and join the local families for a day of sliding fun.
If you love tobogganing, you’ll love the Whistler Blackcomb Tube Park! With over 1,000 feet of slidable snow hill, tubing is a great family excursion. The Tube Park hill has multiple sliding lanes and a conveyor belt lift to get you to the top.
Top Kids Sledding hills
- Community Centre Hill
- One Mile Lake Hill
- Signal Hill Elementary Hill
Farms & Breweries
Winter in Pemberton isn’t just about outdoor sports—it’s also a time to savour the region’s flavours. Pemberton’s farms and breweries offer a unique way to connect with the area’s rich traditions.
A visit to The Beer Farmers is a must when in Pemberton. This family-owned and operated brewery is located on a fourth-generation farm, where they grow many of the ingredients used in their beers.
North Arm Farm is where you can purchase locally produced goods, such as jams, honey, and preserved vegetables, all made from last season’s bounty.
Another local gem is the Pemberton Brewing Company, known for its wide range of craft beers. Located just outside of town, this brewery offers a laid-back environment where you can relax with a pint after a day of winter activities.
Top Winter Farms & Breweries
- North Arm Farm
- The Beer Farmers
- Pemberton Brewing Co.
Book Your Next Trip to Pemberton
Make the most of your paragliding experience by staying at the Pemberton Valley Lodge, conveniently located minutes away from the One Mile Lake and the Disc Golf Course
Our well-appointed guest suites and excellent amenities ensure a comfortable and memorable visit.
