As the wildflowers begin to come into full bloom up at Big White Ski Resort, we know that summer’s coming into full swing on the mountain. With scenic chairlift rides, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding now available up at the resort, there’s a full range of summer activities to take part in – and the best part is that there’s also a fun event scheduled for every weekend throughout the rest of the summer.

Here’s the latest on what’s going on up at Big White this summer.

Bike Big White trail update

Our trail crew has opened up a brand new blue tech trail right from the top of the Bullet Express called Gecko. This is the perfect trail for intermediate riders to practice on to prepare themselves for some of the black trails in the bike park, such as Rock Hammer.

Two trails previously used for the BC Enduro Series and BC Cup Downhill Series have now been renamed and opened for public use. The double-black BC Enduro Series trail is now known as Rocket Science and the BC Cup Downhill course is now the black Catapult Ranch trail.

The trail crew has now set their sights on a blue flow trail underneath the Bullet Express chairlift, which is guaranteed to be a good time. Keep an eye out for the trail opening announcement in the coming weeks.

Hiking trail update

Exciting news for hiking lovers – there’s a brand new trail winding its way through the alpine at Big White, and it happens to be one of the most beautiful trails accessible on the mountain. It’s called Alpine Meadows, and you can expect some of the most beautiful views over to the Monashees along with gorgeous fields of wildflowers and trickling streams.

To get to Alpine Meadows, hike up the Falcon Ridge trail from the Village, or take a scenic chairlift ride up the Bullet Chair for $15 per adult and cross over to the trail.

Got some more time to explore? Check out the following hiking trails also on offer at Big White:

Photo Credit: Big WhiteThe Rhonda Lake Trail

Rhonda Lake Trail: A great trail for those who want incredible views of Rhonda Lake, which is entirely hidden by snow in the winter. It’s one of our more shaded walks, with our Englemann spruce and lodgepole pine forest lining the trail. It also has some great spots for stopping and setting up a picnic with a view.

When you reach Rhonda Lake, at the base of the Cliff bowl, you can take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the tranquility while marvelling at the spectacular cliffs that loom above you, admiring where we ski in the winter – or you can even go for a quick dip in the lake in the designated swimming spot. Just be warned, it’s about 4 degrees in there!

Peak Trail: If you’re on a mission to reach the highest peak, this is the hike for you! Take the Bullet Chair up, or hike up the Rhonda Lake Trail or the Falcon Ridge Trail to reach this path.Follow this trail all the way to the rock cairn at the top and enjoy the views of the mountains, Christian Valley, and the Okanagan Valley.

Photo Credit: Big WhiteFalcon Ridge Trail

Falcon Ridge: This trail meanders its way up the face of Big White and is perfect for those looking for a longer hike. The steady climb up takes you over some pretty streams where the wildflowers like to grow. See if you can spot the Indian paintbush, Pasque flower and Narrow-leaf hawkweed, to name just a few.

As you climb higher, you’ll notice the trees starting to get smaller as you reach the top – these become our snow ghost trees in the winter! With a small scramble section near the top saddle, the spectacular views will make all your efforts worth it.

Jaimeson Loop: Enjoying summer, but missing the snow? This short and steep trail might be the trail for you. You’ll likely find the last bits of our winter snowfall, along with the challenge of some scramble sections and rocky terrain. But you’ll be rewarded with extended views all the way out towards Vernon, including Mt Moore, Greystokes Provincial Park and Big White Ecological Park

Photo Credit: Big WhiteJaimeson Loop

Event update

After all that hiking, you’re going to be thirsty… and what better way to quench your thirst than with a delicious cider? We have the perfect event for you, happening this Saturday at Big White – Ciderfest.

Some of the best cideries and breweries from all over BC will be heading to the mountain to serve up samples of their beverages at 7500 feet. Expect to see Somersby, Lone Tree, Left Field, BX Press, Okanagan Springs, Summerland Cidery, Sea Cider, Truck 59 Cider House, Urban Distilleries and Merridale Cidery, all kicking off tastings from 12 p.m.

Photo Credit: Big WhiteBig White's Ciderfest will be a blast!

This year will see the return of the Craft Market, which is a great chance to find some new household treasures, gorgeous works of art, or maybe a beautiful piece of jewellery for someone special.

Enjoy your shopping and your cider tasting while listening to live music from Jeff Piatelli and Poppa Dawg throughout the day. Kids will also have a great time with apple bobbing, oversized games and a henna booth all on offer in the Village.

Find more details on hiking and summer events, along with horseback rides, mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides, on the Big White website.