Best Emerging Community: Sun Peaks/Kamloops

RESORT: SUN PEAKS

Photo courtesy of Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe

Boasting a terrific variety of skiing in three separate zones: Tod Mountain, were the original trails were cut; near the pedestrian-only village; and Mountain Morrissey, Sun Peaks Resort is the second-largest ski resort in Western Canada in terms of skiiable acreage. True to it’s name, the mountain is blessed with sunny skies and the snow remains light and fluffy thanks to crisp winter temperatures. Virtually all of the accommodation is ski-in and ski-out. One major difference is Sun Peaks’ evolution into a community with full-time residents; not just the wealthy early retirees but managers and staff who live and work on the mountain.

 

TOWN: KAMLOOPS

Kamloops is a First Nations name meaning “gathering place,” a nod to the fact that it’s close to the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers. Similarly, the city is also at a junction of three major highways–including the north-south Highway 5 (Yellowhead Highway), the east-west Highway 1 (the Trans Canada) and the four-lane Highway 97 (Coquihalla).

Kamloops’ economy is as diverse as the changing colours on the sage coloured hills. The tradional B.C. resource industry is made up of logging, forest products processing, ranching and mining, and still employs thousands of workers, but so does Thompson Rivers University, Interior Health, Horizon Manufacturing and the tourism sector. The award-winning Rocky Mountaineer even stops here for the night on its famous Jasper to Vancouver trip.

SUN PEAKS/KAMLOOPS REAL ESTATE SAMPLES

Resort: Spacious lot on Lookout Ridge, perfect for building a custom home. Zoning allows for a two-bedroom revenue suite with views over the golf course, ski trails and village. MLS®16974. $339,000

Town: The Station attracts a younger crowd that needs a low-cost/high-value living space. Ground-floor commercial space gives way to a variety of housing options above, including 34 micro suites of about 400 square feet. Prices upon request: info@suitlifestyle.ca

Posted in Winter 2018