LOCATION: Nakusp, BC
DRIVING DISTANCE (YVR): 8hr (687 km)
MARKED RUNS: 8
TERRAIN: 30 acres
RATING: It was closed on arrival - lack of snow
Family-Friendly Hill for Beginner Skiers
Summit Lake Ski and Snowboard Area is a small, community-run hill managed by the Nakusp Ski Club Association, a non-profit volunteer organization. Located just 16 km from Nakusp, BC, off Highway 6, it’s a no-frills spot with two T-bars, a few runs, and a snow groomer. This cozy hill offers a relaxed and accessible space for local families to enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
This place reminds me of the small, family-run ski hills in the Laurentians where I used to ride as a kid. I have so many fond memories and hope it will inspire local kids to pursue skiing or snowboarding. When we visited in early January, the hill was closed due to lack of snow, so we weren’t able to give it a full review. From what I could see, it's a beginner-friendly hill, perfect for young children starting out in the sport. Since it's not in a highly populated area, it fills an important gap by offering a place for kids to learn and have fun. The nearest major ski resort, Whitewater Ski Resort, is about a 1.5-hour drive away, unless you're able to splurge on cat skiing or heliskiing—definitely not ideal for a child learning the ropes. Summit Lake Ski Resort provides a great opportunity for youngsters to build their skills while enjoying themselves.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS
Soak in the Hot Springs
This area is famous for its natural hot springs. Treat yourself to a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich hot pools—it's a magical experience, especially with the snow surrounding you.
Pros
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Operated by passionate volunteers
- Perfect to combine with a hot springs getaway
Cons
-
Small resort with limited runs
- A bit off the beaten path
If you're in the area, be sure to support this small, non-profit, volunteer-run mountain. These kinds of community-driven resorts are essential for providing kids and adults alike the opportunity to embrace the ski lifestyle.
WEBSITE:
www.skisummitlake.com
