LOCATION: Kamloops, BC
DRIVING DISTANCE (YVR): 4hr 35min (389 km)
MARKED RUNS: 16
TERRAIN: 400 acres
RATING: 2.5 /5 Stars
Small Hill, Big Fun
Harper Mountain is a small, local ski hill that offers a more relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere for those looking to enjoy winter activities without the crowds of larger resorts. Located near Kamloops, this hidden gem is perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers looking to practice their skills. With just one triple chairlift and a long T-bar that provides multiple spots to jump off, Harper Mountain offers a laid-back experience, but don’t expect high-speed lifts. The chairlift is on the slower side, but it reaches the highest peak, giving you great views.

The only chairlift is an older triple model, so it takes a bit longer to reach the top, giving your legs some time to recover. Be mindful of the grease on the lift—Christine learned the hard way when her jacket got covered in it on our first ride up, and I later spotted it on my sleeve. Just a heads up—grease is tough to get out of winter jackets, so our coats are permanently stained.

Many families bring their own food, but if you do decide to order from the restaurant, steer clear of the fries—small portions with a hefty price tag.
Harper Mountain is a great place to practice your riding skills on its beginner and mid-level runs. It's a good stepping stone before tackling larger terrains at places like Sun Peaks. However, if you're visiting early or late in the season, be mindful of the snow conditions. On our visit, the snow was sparse, and there were exposed branches and fallen logs, making it difficult to find good tree runs.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS
Half-Day Option
Make the most of your time and save a few bucks by opting for the half-day deal.
Ski Lessons for Kids
If you have kids, there are plenty of beginner-friendly areas where they can learn how to use the handlebar, T-bar, and chairlift. It's the perfect spot for young riders to develop their skills.

Pros
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Family-friendly atmosphere, great to see kids learning to ski and snowboard
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Open since 1973—supporting local, independent resorts
- Excellent training ground for young riders
- Only a 25 minute drive from Kamloops
Cons
- Be cautious of grease on the chairlift—left stains on our jackets.
- Limited challenging runs, mainly for beginners and intermediates
- No dedicated glade runs; tried to create new tracks but encountered fallen logs and tight spaces.

Despite these small drawbacks, Harper Mountain has the potential to be a fantastic alternative to the larger, crowded hills. It’s an affordable and peaceful spot to spend a day on the slopes, especially for those just starting out or looking to escape the busy resorts.
WEBSITE:
www.harpermountain.com