Summer 2026 at Sun Peaks

The Best Activities, Events & Adventures This Season

If you think Sun Peaks is only a winter destination, summer may surprise you.

After the snow melts, Canada’s second-largest ski area transforms into one of British Columbia’s most underrated summer playgrounds. Picture yourself riding the chairlift to scenic alpine hikes, world-class mountain biking, golf surrounded by mountain views, and a walkable village atmosphere where you can slow down and actually enjoy summer.

Summer 2026 is shaping up to be another exciting season, with activities running from mid-June through late September.

Whether you're planning a family reunion filled with outdoor adventures or a music-filled mountain getaway with friends, here are some of the best things to do this summer at Sun Peaks.

From hiking and biking to festivals and golf, these are some of the best summer activities and things to do in Sun Peaks in 2026.

Summer 2026 Begins: Chairlifts Start Running June 13

For many visitors, summer in Sun Peaks officially begins when the lifts start turning again.

The Summer Opening Day for 2026 is June 13, marking the return of lift-access hiking, mountain biking, sightseeing, and a wide range of on-mountain summer activities. If you've been searching for when Sun Peaks opens for summer 2026, this is the date to remember.

The reopening of the chairlifts signals the beginning of both hiking and biking season and transforms the mountain from ski destination to summer playground.

Visitors can once again enjoy:

• Chairlift-access alpine hiking (hiking trails are also available that don't include the chairlift)

• Sun Peaks Bike Park access

• Scenic lift rides

• Disc golf

• Village activities galore

If you’re planning a trip around hiking or biking, booking early for opening season weekends is often worthwhile.

1. Ride the Chairlift to Alpine Hiking Trails

One of the most unique summer experiences at Sun Peaks is taking the chairlift up the mountain and stepping directly into an alpine paradise.

With summer lift operations underway, the Sunburst Chairlift provides access to scenic hiking and trail-running routes with panoramic views and wildflower meadows.

Popular summer hiking experiences include:

• Gentle alpine walks suitable for families

• Wildflower viewing

• Summit hikes with expansive mountain views

• Trail running routes for more adventurous visitors

Unlike some mountain destinations, the trails here rarely feel overcrowded.

Bring a camera—you’ll likely need it.

2. Experience the Sun Peaks Bike Park

Mountain biking continues to be one of Sun Peaks' biggest summer attractions.

Beginning June 13, the Bike Park returns with lift-access terrain across multiple mountains and trails for beginners through experts. Cross-country and valley routes also provide options for riders who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Even if you don't bring equipment:

• Bike rentals are available

• Lessons and guided options are available for beginners

• Families can enjoy easier valley routes

Whether you're chasing adrenaline or simply enjoying mountain scenery, there’s something for every level.

3. Catch Summer Festivals and Live Music

Summer 2026 includes a full lineup of village concerts and signature events.

Highlights include:

• Canada Day Celebrations — June 26 to July 1 Many additional activities are planned

• Rockin' in the Peaks — July 3–4 featuring Kim Mitchell, The Trews, Barney Bentall and Odds

• Heartland Country Fest — August 7–8, Sun Peaks’ first annual country music festival

• Retro Concert Weekend — August 21–23 celebrating classic artists including the Rolling Stones, BTO, Heart, Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood Mac, Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, John Cougar Mellencamp and more

• Paws in the Peaks — a fun-filled weekend celebrating dogs, mountain lifestyle and pet-friendly activities

• Alpenglow Arts Festival — September 11–13 featuring performances, workshops and immersive arts experiences

Sun Peaks has become surprisingly strong as a summer music destination because events are woven into the pedestrian village atmosphere rather than separated from it.

You can spend the day outdoors and then enjoy live music with a mountain immersion.

4. Play British Columbia’s Highest Elevation Golf Course

Golfers often discover Sun Peaks by accident—and many of our guests come back specifically for it.

The Graham Cooke-designed course winds through the valley floor beneath surrounding mountains and remains British Columbia’s highest elevation golf course.

Expect:

• Cooler summer temperatures

• Scenic mountain backdrops

• Challenging but playable design

• Less crowded than many resort courses

Morning tee times followed by lunch in the village and an afternoon of games and hot-tubbing, followed by your own masterchef bbq feast... sounds like a pretty ideal summer day.

5. Explore Beyond the Village

Many visitors never realize how many activities exist beyond the lifts.

Summer options also include:

• Paddleboarding and lake activities

• Whitewater rafting

• Disc golf

• Horseback riding and carriage rides

• Jeep tours

• Tennis and pickleball

• Family playgrounds and adventure zones

• Guided experiences and sightseeing tours

If your group includes different ages or activity levels, Sun Peaks works especially well because everyone can create their own version of a perfect day. And Pinetree Chalet offers an ideal home base to take it all in.

Where to Stay During Your Summer Sun Peaks Getaway

After a full day of hiking trails, biking laps, village events, or mountain adventures, where you choose your base camp can help bring the entire experience together to create lifelong memories.

For extended families and larger groups, having space to spread out can make all the difference. Rather than squeezing into multiple hotel rooms, many visitors enjoy having a mountain home base where everyone can gather, relax, and enjoy time together with a full kitchen and living areas.

At Pinetree Chalet, summer guests can return from a day on the mountain and unwind with dinner together, relax on the deck, enjoy a soak in the hot tub, and settle into a rousing game or two. Whether you're visiting for a biking event, a family vacation, or a week of summer activities, having a comfortable place to call home can be the icing on the cake.

Book your Pinetree Chalet stay now, or we're delighted to answer any questions you have.

Why Summer at Sun Peaks Feels Different

What visitors often remember most isn’t one attraction.

It’s the pace.

You can spend the morning hiking an alpine trail, grab lunch in the village, relax at the chalet in the afternoon, then end your evening with live music or dinner on a patio—all without fighting major crowds. Then head back for a soak before bed.

That relaxed atmosphere is part of what makes Sun Peaks feel like a hidden summer destination rather than a busy tourist hotspot.

If you're planning a Summer 2026 escape, this may be the year to experience Sun Peaks beyond ski season.

You'll arrive expecting spectacular mountain scenery.

You’ll probably leave planning your next visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do Sun Peaks lifts open for Summer 2026?

June 13, 2026. This marks the beginning of lift-access hiking, sightseeing and Bike Park operations.

Is Sun Peaks worth visiting in summer?

Absolutely. Hiking, biking, golf, festivals and family activities create a completely different experience from winter.

What are the best family activities in Sun Peaks during summer?

Families often enjoy hiking, village events, playgrounds, sightseeing, disc golf and scenic chairlift rides. See our BLOG on Family Activities for Families.