Summer’s hit Big White, and if you’ve only ever been up here in the snow, you’re missing half the story. While the mountain is most known for powder days and après-ski patios, summer brings a whole new experience. The long Okanagan days, warm sun, and wildflowers in full bloom are worth seeing. Even though the snow stops, the lifts keep spinning, the trails open up, and the mountain continues to attract visitors. Whether you’re here for a quiet alpine retreat or something a little more action-packed, Big White delivers. And for buyers looking at real estate, this isn’t just about ski season anymore. Year-round living and rental potential are on the rise. So, let’s take a closer look at what makes Big White an investment worth considering in the summer months.
What Does a Big White Summer Have to Offer?
Big White’s summer offerings are expanding every year. Once the snow melts, the slopes turn into trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and families looking to escape Kelowna’s heat. There’s a good stretch of trails, from casual strolls to alpine hikes, that’ll get your legs burning in all the best ways. The mountain bike park is decked out with downhill runs, technical sections, and rentals right on the hill if you don’t want to haul your own gear.
The scenic chairlift rides give you a whole new view of the Okanagan. On the way up, you’ll catch wildflowers, open meadows, and the rocky terrain that’s usually buried in snow. In recent years, events have been picking up, too. The craft beer weekend, live music, and outdoor yoga sessions have started pulling in locals and tourists. And don’t overlook the food! Some of Big White’s restaurants stay open through summer with awesome patios.
Big White is active, busy, and growing in the summer. It’s no longer just a winter destination. We’re seeing more second-home owners spending time here during the warmer months.
Buying Property at Big White During Summer
We often get asked if it’s “worth buying at Big White if we’re not skiing every weekend?” Ten years ago, maybe that was a tougher sell. But now, summer’s giving winter a run for its money, and that means year-round value if you’re looking at property.
Rental demand hasn’t dropped with the snow. In fact, some owners are getting solid bookings throughout the summer months, especially on weekends. Couples, families, biking crews and tourists who want a quieter home base as they explore Kelowna are all enticed by summer at Big White. A well-placed condo with a view or a cozy chalet close to the village has high rental value.
Restaurants like the BullWheel that used to shut down during the summer are now staying open for the summer season. Business has been up every year since 2020, and people are finally seeing the mountain as a year-round destination!
This has echoed in the market. Buyers are looking for flexibility. A place that works for ski trips in the winter, but also a few weeks in the summer to hike, relax, and maybe Airbnb the rest. If you’re buying up here, don’t get caught up in the snow. Think about the summer, too.
Why Big White Makes Sense Year-Round
There’s a lot of real estate activity around Kelowna and the surrounding valley, but Big White offers something a bit different. Less sprawl. Less noise. The perfect place for a vacation home that welcomes both full-time residents and weekenders. Prices here are still fair, especially when compared to lakefront or central city properties.
The beauty of owning at Big White is the lifestyle. In winter, you get ski-in, ski-out access, no long drives to find parking, and a front-row seat to all the action. But summer gives you something that’s maybe even more valuable: peace. No traffic noise. No smoke (most days, anyway). Just a cool alpine breeze and a place to get outside.
A lot of the new buyers we’re seeing are out-of-town investors and remote workers. People who want a second place, but also want to make a profit. That might mean short-term rentals, personal use, or a longer-term plan to live here full time. And Big White checks a lot of boxes, like solid internet, reliable services, and a growing list of summer amenities.
So, whether you’re looking at a slope-side condo, a townhome, or a full chalet, the key is to stop thinking seasonal. Big White is three seasons now. And smart buyers are getting in ahead of the curve.
Buy Real Estate for the Big White Summer!
If you’re thinking about buying up here, summer’s a great time to do it. You get to see the mountain in full bloom, check out the summer buzz, and walk through properties without the snow hiding everything. I’m always happy to show people around, answer questions, or chat about what might make sense for your budget and goals. Feel free to contact me today to set something up!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Big White Summer
Is Big White worth visiting in the summer?
Absolutely. Once the snow melts, Big White transforms into an alpine playground. Think hiking trails, mountain biking, wildflowers, scenic lift rides, live music, and patios in the sun. It’s way more than a ski hill now.
What’s open at Big White in the summer?
The chairlifts run for hikers and bikers. The bike park is open. Some of the restaurants, like the BullWheel, stay open with summer hours. Plus, there are events like craft beer weekends and outdoor yoga. Every year, more gets added.
Can I rent out my property in the summer?
Yes, and many owners already do. Summer rental demand is up. Families, mountain bikers, and people looking for a quiet Kelowna-area getaway are booking places on the mountain. A good condo or chalet near the village can get strong summer returns.
Is now a good time to buy at Big White?
If you’re thinking long-term and want both winter and summer use (or income), then yes. Prices are still reasonable compared to Kelowna or lakefront properties, and the mountain is growing as a year-round destination.
