Top of the World
Elevation: 2,080m
Kamloops-Based Fuji Run Club hit the sun peaks trails
Members of the Fuji Run Club from Kamloops visited in July of 2023 to sample the trails on Mt. Morrisey and the alpine of Mt. Tod, and the valley trail connectors and chairlift that seamlessly tie the two mountains' offerings together.
Check out the varied terrain these runners discovered throughout the resort, and find 10 steps to planning your perfect trail-running getaway.
📸 Sunday July 23, 2023
#1: Meet at the Village Day Lodge
The perfect spot to rendezvous with your group and stretch it out before hitting the trails. Here you'll find free parking right at the base of the summer chairlifts, and a cafe and public washrooms that open early.
Pro-tip: arrive early and score rockstar parking right in front of the lodge. Your legs will thank you for the proximity at the end of your run ;)
#2: Use the Valley Trail to Connect Trail Networks
The multi-use valley trail connects all of Sun Peaks' trail networks and community neighbourhoods, and meanders along streams and through forests to create a pedestrian-friendly route away from traffic.
Connect to the valley trail behind the Kookaburra Lodge for a peaceful run out to the Mt. Morrisey chairlift and trailhead, where you can start your ascent up the Cedar Twist multi-use trail.
FIND THE VALLEY TRAIL ON SUN PEAKS HIKING TRAIL MAP
#3: Breathe Deep in Morrisey's Cedar Forest
The lower reaches of Mt. Morrisey are home to cooler temperatures and some of Sun Peaks' largest Cedar trees thanks to it's north-facing exposure. Enjoy the lush forest and take time to rest and reflect on the multi-use Cedar Twist trail, before continuing your ascent to the top of the mountain.
#4: Savour the Summit
What better place for a snack-break than the top of a mountain? Enjoy expansive views of Orient Ridge and the alpine of Mt. Tod from Mt. Morrisey's summit—and maybe even some wildlife if you're lucky—before bounding back down the trail, through the village, as you make your way to conquer your next summit.
#5: Catch a lift to Mid-Mountain
The Sunburst Express chairlift transports you nearly 600 metres higher in elevation up Mt. Tod, where you can start the next leg of your trail-running journey towards the alpine meadows where the best and brightest wildflower blossoms can be found.
Hiking Lift Tickets Chairlift Hours
#6: Plan Your Alpine Route
The top of the chairlift is a great spot to rest and check out the trail map before heading for your next destination, and the Sunburst Lodge is open with washrooms, drinks and snacks, and water refills.
#7: Run to the Top of the World
Choose your adventure: head straight up the Top of the World trail to reach the summit or opt for a more meandering route—setting your destination for Juniper Ridge at the top of the Burfield chairlift. Here be rewarded with 360-degree views of the surrounding area, and some of the resort's best wildflower viewing when the season's right.
#8: Enjoy the top of the world View
And maybe a selfie, too! The proper summit of Mt. Tod lays just northwest of Juniper Ridge and about 70 metres higher. It's accessible via the hiking network and Tod Peak trail—no pressure, though ;)
#9: Descend Forested Gil's Trail
Link up to Gil's Trail from your final destination on Mt. Tod for a technical, forested descent back down to the top of the Sunburst chairlift—through Sun Peaks' winter backcountry ski area!
#10: refuel in the village
After riding the Sunburst chairlift back down to the Sun Peaks village, it's time to refuel and treat yourself to some patio nourishment.
The Fuji Run Club opted for the scratch cooking and dietary options of Vertical Café, but dining options are extensive and just a stone's throw from where you started your day—offering everything from light and healthy fare to deeply satisfying pub grub.
Ready to Plan Your Sun Peaks Getaway?
Whether you're a runner, hiker, biker, dog-walker or overall nature lover, Sun Peaks has a variety of activities on and off the mountain for everyone in the family. And the longer you stay this summer, the more you save!