Guest Author - Janet Collins

Thanks to the announcement of the location of the 2010 Olympics, everyone – whether they ski or not – has heard of Whistler. But tucked away in BC’s Interior region is another ski area that is worthy of attention.

Sun Peaks is comprised of three mountains (Tod, Sundance, and Mt Morrisey) with a combined 3,700 acres, 117 runs and a 2,891 vertical drop. The area has more terrain and more vertical than any other resort in the BC Interior. In addition, Sun Peaks boasts an award-winning village (recognized by Snow Country Magazine).

This is also a great family resort (Ski Canada Magazine recognized it as the best family ski resort of those surveyed). The Good Skiing and Snowboarding Guide also considered the resort to have the Children’s Program of the Year. But don’t be fooled; this is a great spot for adults of all skill levels, too.

Bonus for anyone wanting ski lessons: Olympic champion Nancy Greene Raine lives in the village of Sun Peaks, and is regularly seen on the slopes. Don’t be surprised if she stops in the middle of a run to offer some helpful advice. Nancy is also available for private lessons.

All that’s great, but the reason I like Sun Peaks is it has smaller crowds than at Whistler. That’s a real bonus as it means fewer line-ups at the lifts.

Some days, I prefer to hit the cross-country trails or go snowshoeing. Other days, I just kick back on one of the restaurant patios and watch the kids take on the boarding slopes and tube runs.

I haven’t been up in the summer, but friends tell me the golf at Sun Peaks is great. There’s also a mountain bike park for those who prefer more extreme sports.

Sun Peaks is only 4-1/2 hrs drive from Vancouver, so it’s easy to get to. There is a wide range of accommodations (personally, I like the stylish Pinnacle – great restaurant there, too – or the Delta Sun Peaks Resort).

Seniors will be pleased to know Sun Peaks offers special lift rates just for them.

For more information, contact Sun Peaks at 1-800-807-3257 or visit their website at www.sunpeaksresort.com