Ski Resort Boundary & Backcountry Safety

Exploring the backcountry terrain around Sun Peaks Resort comes with both risk and reward. We recommend guests remain in-bounds for their safety. The backcountry is not patrolled, and Sun Peaks Ski Patrol does NOT provide assistance outside ski area boundary. 

If you do decide to explore the backcountry it’s important that you are well prepared. Please review the information below regarding safety in the backcountry and after-hours hazards in the resort.

Closed Areas

There are a number of different signs and markers to indicate conditions, boundaries and warnings on the ski area Premise. All poles, flags, fencing, signage, and padding on equipment or objects or other forms of marking devices are used by the ski area to inform you of the presence or location of a potential obstacle or hazard.

Closed areas include but are not limited to avalanche closures, permanent closures and closed runs. Skiing and snowboarding in these areas is strictly prohibited and passes will be revoked for violation. Areas can be closed for several reasons: avalanche danger, debris and/or control work; cliffs, fallen trees, ditches or holes have rendered a run unsafe; a race/event is taking place; terrain parks are not yet ready to open; or machinery is operating. Observe and obey all posted signs and warnings. Ignoring these messages may put yourself or others at risk.

Uphill travel (hiking, snowshoeing, skinning) is not permitted within the ski area boundary.

Ski Resort Boundary & Backcountry

Outside of the Sun Peaks Resort boundary lies dangerous, unpatrolled areas and the backcountry. Traveling in these areas is hazardous, and those leaving the ski resort boundary do so at their own risk and must be prepared to travel on their own terms. 

The backcountry is not patrolled and does not have regular avalanche control, and includes other hazards such as cliffs, rocks, trees, and becoming lost. Backcountry travelers must rely on themselves in case of emergency, as rescue may take considerable time to come to your aid.

There is limited to no cell phone service in many areas of the backcountry.

There are two dedicated gated exits for prepared backcountry guests located at the end of First Saddle near the entrance to Main Face and Offset, and at Second Saddle between Skunk and the top of the old West Bowl T-bar.

Be Prepared for Backcountry Access

Education and training: It is highly recommended that an AST1 or equivalent training be completed prior to accessing the backcountry.
Plan ahead: Let someone know your destination and when you expect to return. Familiarize yourself with the area, including landmarks and possible exit points. 

Weather and avalanche conditions: Make sure you have the most current weather and avalanche conditions for the area.

Bring the right equipment: Use equipment designed for backcountry skiing, such as alpine touring or telemark gear. Alpine touring skis are often lighter, which can make hiking uphill easier. 

Be prepared for emergencies: Bring a first aid kit, repair kit, extra food and clothes, and a map and compass. Don't rely solely on your phone or GPS, as reception can be unreliable. 

Assess your fitness: Climbing uphill in fresh snow can be challenging, so make sure you're reasonably fit. 

Be willing to turn back: If circumstances require it, be prepared to abandon your tour. 

Ski or Ride with others: It is very highly recommended that you do not enter the backcountry alone. Self-rescue can quickly become impossible without a well-trained companion.

Looking to freshen up your avalanche companion rescue skills? Contact Ski Patrol (250.578.5521) or visit the Beacon Basin at the top of the Sunburst Express chairlift.

Winch Cats

• If you are re-entering the ski resort boundary after hours, please be aware that grooming equipment and winch-assisted grooming cats may be operating on the ski runs.
• Winch-assisted grooming cats work on the mountain overnight pose a serious hazard to skiers and snowboarders. If you are returning from the backcountry via the in-bounds area of Sun Peaks Resort, you must do so by 3:45pm. For more information about grooming cat locations, you can contact a member of our grooming team at 250.319.5028.
• Active winch cats are identified by the following on-mountain signage:

Motorized Vehicles

• Snowmobiling inside the Sun Peaks Resort boundary or Controlled Recreation Area (CRA) is not permitted at any time. Truck parking and snowmobile access is available from parking lot 6. From there follow the designated route out of the ski resort area and CRA to access the backcountry. For more information please review our Independent Snowmobile/ORV Access page.

For more information on backcountry safety visit www.avalanche.ca.