What’s new for winter in Sun Peaks?

Whether you’re a long-time resident or have come to chase powder, there’s is plenty to do in Sun Peaks as winter takes hold in the village.

Ohana’s Deli and Market expands

Ohana’s Deli & Market is expanding into the space next door to accommodate growth, inspired by customer feedback, owner Bobbe Lyall told SPIN.

“The number one feedback we get from our customers is that they’re a little squished when they come into the store,” Lyall explained. “We just keep bringing in lots more unique products…we also have a real demand for seating.”

The addition, which should be partially complete for opening weekend Nov. 18, will almost double the existing footprint, bringing the space to 2,500 square feet. Shelving and freezers are slated to be up and running in a matter of days, a public bathroom was under construction as Lyall explored the space with SPIN and the kitchen expansion should be complete by spring of 2024.

The increased freezer space will bring to life a long-time dream for Lyall – providing fresh local produce for take-home meals in autumn and winter.

“As much of a nerve-racking decision it was to expand, feeling the space now – it feels like the space Ohana should have been all along,” Lyall said.

Locals and visitors alike can look forward to tastings, produce sales and community events in the coming months.

Parking and kids activities and new features, oh my!

Amy Blakeney, chief operations officer and chief financial officer for SPR told SPIN the resort has some new features coming this season.

Fighting for parking when you head out to shred at SPR will soon be a bit less competitive, with construction wrapping up on a parking lot near the Burfield Chairlift. The new parking lot will add around 60 spots for guests, as well as an amenities building with a boot change space and washroom available for the public. 

Previously, guests used an administration office in the Burfield Lodge when riding on Burfield. The building will revert back to an employee space once the amenities building is up and running, slated for Dec. 1.

There is also a new adventure zone for youth off of the Sundance run. The Bears Lair is a four-phase project spearheaded by the marketing arm of the resort and designed for kids to explore. 

A new ski run off the Orient Chairlift provides new space to ride, and there’s additional glading added to forests along the Three Bears run for folks who enjoy some technical terrain.

Speaking of terrain, the resort has added two new groomers worth $1 million to its arsenal, ensuring the popularity of groomed runs will continue to be a feature at SPR.

Home buyers take note, Alder Estates lots are ready for purchase come December. There are 16 single-family lots going to market, and Switchback Creek properties are under construction. Unit sales should be ready to close by November 2024.

Construction is underway for the West Bowl Express Chairlift, and the three-year-long project will have chairs turning by winter 2024-2025 season. The majority of tower construction is finished and the $12 million project is on track for next session. 

Mountain Man Adventure Tours goes mobile

Whether you’re looking to add to your winter-wonderland experience or perhaps not everyone in your family seeks out shredding, Mountain Man Adventure Tours is expanding into snowmobile tours, increasing outdoor recreation.

Taryn Schwanke, co-owner of Mountain Man, told SPIN they acquired an existing snowmobile tour business and rebranded to Mountain Man Adventure Tours.

“Andrew Helton was working with us guiding dog sled tours last season, and he has a passion for snowmobiling,” Schwanke explained. “He will be joining us and managing snowmobile tours.”

The tours will run Wednesday through Sunday and are bookable online. Opening day is slated for Dec. 15, but if conditions allow, the business will open earlier and an announcement will be on social media.

While Schwanke and her husband will still be hands-on with dog-sledding and snowmobiling, she said the addition creates more opportunities for exploring the backcountry.

“There’s more to Sun Peaks than riding the chairlift, and as much fun as that is, this is a different way of experiencing the backcountry and the beauty that we have up here,” Schwanke said.