The Secret Side of Sun Peaks:
Why Shoulder Season is a Great Time to Visit Pinetree Chalet

Discover the Serenity of Sun Peaks During Shoulder Season

Most visitors head to Sun Peaks Resort for its world-class skiing or mountain biking, but between those two action-packed seasons lies one of British Columbia’s best-kept secrets: shoulder season.

This peaceful in-between time — when the snow begins to melt but before the next active season kicks off — is ideal for rest, renewal, and connection with nature. It's the perfect opportunity for a quiet mountain getaway with fewer crowds and great deals..

The Sun Peaks shoulder season is calling, and there’s no better place to experience it than at Pinetree Chalet, your home base in the heart of the mountains.

Why Visit Sun Peaks During Shoulder Season?

From late April to early June, and again from early October to mid-November, Sun Peaks slows down and 'rests'. The alpine air is crisp, the trails are calm, and the mountain scenery feels even more intimate.

• Peace and Quiet: Wander the trails or village walkways without the rush of high-season visitors.

• Lower Rates: Hotels and house rentals, including Pinetree Chalet, offer special off-season pricing.

• Wellness and Focus: With fewer distractions, this is an ideal time for a Sun Peaks retreat — whether it's artistic, educational, wellness-focused, or simply a group getaway with friends.

Why Stay at Pinetree Chalet?

Pinetree Chalet is perfectly designed for enjoying Sun Peaks in every season — and it’s especially magical during the shoulder months. Nestled among evergreens and offering breathtaking mountain views with changing colours, it provides peace, space, and comfort when the village quiets down.

• Spacious & Serene: Curl up in cozy living spaces, soak in the hot tub - no matter the weather, or wake to watch the mist settle on the mountains.  

• Perfect for Retreats and Meetings: Regardless of the focus, the chalet offers space, amenities and rooms, plus the calm and inspiration you need.

• Close to Nature: Step outside for an early morning hike, spot wildlife nearby, or enjoy a quiet coffee on the deck.  The changing skies over the mountains that are more pronounced in the spring and fall with a panoramic vantage spot.

• Great Value: Off-season rates mean you can experience the best of Sun Peaks at a fraction of peak-season prices.  The resort even runs an extended season for early or late-season team ski training, offering a unique opportunity for groups to enjoy ski facilities while still taking advantage of shoulder-season deals.  

(Tip: Booking Pinetree Chalet during the shoulder season lets you experience the same space and amenities for significantly less than in winter or summer.)

Group-Friendly Things to Do in Sun Peaks Between Seasons

Even when the ski lifts are paused and the bike park rests, shoulder season offers plenty of opportunities for shared experience: 

Relax with Spa & Wellness Experiences

Treat yourself to a massage, classes, or spa treatments. The slower pace means more availability and quieter spaces.

Explore Scenic Hiking Trails

Longer trails like McGillivray Lake Trail and Vista Trail often open early. Five trails just outside Pinetree Chalet offer peaceful walks with birdsong, streams, and changing flora. An early or late snowfall can dovetail with snowshoeing.

Spot Wildlife Around Sun Peaks

The shoulder season is one of the best times for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for deer, marmots, foxes, birds, and black bears. Walks from the chalet often bring delightful sightings right from your doorstep.

Shared Meals & Culinary Fun

Some local restaurants and cafés stay open year-round — with no crowds. Or, cook at home in Pinetree Chalet’s fully equipped kitchen and enjoy meals and pairings.

Challenge Yourself to Games - Indoor and Outdoor

Cornhole, frisbee, ping-pong in the village, golf (starts in May) can bring you outdoors — make a puzzle or challenge the group to a cribbage or friendly poker tournament around the fire.

Team-Building Activities

Plan cooking classes, professional development exercises, wellness classes, photography excursions capturing autumn or spring scenery — perfect for groups looking to bond, learn and explore together.

Fireside Study Gatherings

The shorter days are conducive to getting cozy around the fire to binge watch and discuss a study series (The Chosen and AD are some of our favourites!).  This is at a time when people are often looking for distractions — the quiet season and Pinetree Chalet's tranquil setting make for an ideal Sun Peaks retreat venue.

Tips for Visiting Sun Peaks in the Off-Season

• Check Hours: Some activities, shops and restaurants have limited hours between seasons.

• Pack Layers: Weather can change quickly from sunny to chilly — come prepared.

• Watch for Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance, and bring a camera!

The Beauty of In-Between

The Sun Peaks shoulder season isn’t just downtime — it’s a hidden gem for travelers seeking peace, rejuvenation, and natural beauty. Staying at Pinetree Chalet lets you experience it all in comfort.

Whether your group is hiking, spotting wildlife, enjoying spa treatments, sharing meals and cozy fireside evenings or simply unwinding in a hot tub under the stars, this calm season reveals a softer, intimate side of Sun Peaks.  And Pinetree Chalet is your perfect centre for a Sun Peaks group retreat or off-season getaway.

October 28, 2025