Top things to do in Revelstoke in the winter

Revelstoke, BC, in the winter is truly something else. Receiving what feels like endless amounts of snow, this small mountain town is packed with winter activities. Here are the top things to put on your list this winter so that you can truly experience what the locals like to describe as #TheRealStoke.

Before we dive into the winter fun, it’s important to note that Revelstoke is in avalanche country. Some activities listed below require proper avalanche knowledge, training and equipment to enter these zones. More on that below.

Ski & Snowboard

Skiers and snowboarders from across the world have included Revelstoke Mountain Resort on their ski bucket list. Because of its unique location in the mountains --  Revelstoke, BC is situated in the world's only inland temperate rainforest -- visitors can expect lots of precipitation and you guessed it, loads of snow! So much snow that they see on average 12-18m (40-60 feet) of snow a year!

Revelstoke Mountain Resort opens in early December and you are almost guaranteed to be skiing fresh powder within a week or two after opening.

Want to take it out of bounds? Revelstoke is also home to some of Canada’s most epic backcountry terrain. Rogers Pass provides incredible roadside accessed ski touring or reserve a snowmobile, cat skiing or heli skiing trip to get the ultimate big mountain, freeride experience.

‍Snowmobiling

For all the sled necks out there, Revelstoke's terrain and trails may become your new favourite place to ride (if it isn’t already). There’s a reason why some of the world’s best snowmobilers call this place home.

With all the snow Revelstoke sees, you are almost guaranteed consistent face shots, moderate winter temperatures and a huge variety of terrain for any level of rider.

For all the latest information on trails and conditions, visit the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club.

‍Snowshoeing

Hitting the trails with your snowshoes is the best way for the whole family to see and experience Revelstoke this winter. With snow starting to accumulate as early as November, it doesn’t take long for the local trails to be ready for exploring. And the trail systems are endless…

Venture out to Begbie Falls, which is often frozen in the winter or try the trails around the Illecillewaet Greenbelt. Do be aware that although snowshoeing is typically a low danger activity, you may cross into avalanche terrain. Proper avalanche knowledge, training and equipment may be needed.

Another great spot for snowshoeing in Revelstoke, BC is Mount Revelstoke National Park. The network of snowshoe trails can be accessed at the entrance gate of Meadows in the Sky Parkway. Pack a lunch to go from Terra Firma Kitchen and a thermos with your favourite hot beverage from Stoke Roasted Coffee and enjoy the views of town and the winter river valley.

Dog sledding

In need of a rest day or something less thrilling? Dog sledding in Revelstoke is like none other, which makes it the perfect addition to your winter itinerary.

You’ll be pulled along snowy trails and through stunning landscapes by teams of Alaskan racing huskies led by experienced mushers. On your way, you’ll learn about the dogs and the history of dog sledding in Revelstoke. At Revelstoke Dogsled Adventures, they’re primary concern is the health of their dogs. So much so that tour schedules may vary to cater to the wellbeing of their dogs. They may be born to run fast, but they are still treated and trained to be a bunch of happy doggos.

It doesn’t end there

Revelstoke, British Columbia truly is a winter wonderland and it doesn’t take long for the scenery to change. More family fun activities include fat biking around the town trails and visiting the nordic center for beautiful cross country ski trails.

Avalanche Awareness

As mentioned, avalanche danger is real in the backcountry of Revelstoke and surrounding areas. It’s important that if you do plan to leave the city limits, you check in with the local information center to determine if your plan for the day crosses over into avalanche terrain.

Even better, avalanche.ca does a great job forecasting danger levels each and every day of the winter season. Here you can find information on how the snow has been acting, the forecasted risk ratings per zone, as well as a plethora of information to get you up to speed about avalanches and how to mitigate the likelihood of getting caught in one.

If you plan on going backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and even some snowshoeing trails, you will need to have proper avalanche equipment with you. Most shops that offer ski rentals, will also offer avalanche equipment rentals. You can check out Great Canadian Tours and Revelstoke Powder Rentals for more information.

At the end of day, the place to be is our river-side hot tub at Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke. Situated along the banks of the Columbia River, here is where you’ll have a chance to relax and soak up the breathtaking Revelstoke scenery. Check out Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke for an unforgettable mountain experience. Book direct and save!