By Sean Phillips, REALTOR®, Strand resident ·
Short answer: Vernon is one of the few places in Canada where you can live on a big lake and still be about 30 to 40 minutes from a major ski resort. SilverStar Mountain Resort, about 22 km northeast of Vernon, has more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and a large cross-country trail network. In summer, the same home base puts you on Okanagan Lake.
SilverStar at a glance
- More than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and well over 100 marked runs
- A colourful ski-in, ski-out village
- An extensive Nordic (cross-country) trail network
- Lift-access mountain biking and hiking in summer
- Ski season typically runs from late November to April
A typical winter day from the lake
Leave Okanagan Landing after breakfast, ski the morning, have lunch in the village and be back home by mid-afternoon. At a condo like The Strand, the hot tub runs all year, which is hard to beat after a ski day. The heated underground parking means no scraping frost off the car in the morning.
Why buyers choose the lake over the mountain
Owning at SilverStar puts you right on the slopes, but living by the lake gives you:
- Milder valley weather and less snow at home
- Year-round amenities and services in Vernon
- Summer lake life that most mountain homes can't match
Some buyers own both. I work with buyers in both markets.
Summer, too
The same balance works in reverse. In summer you're on the lake, and SilverStar offers biking, hiking and cooler mountain air when the valley heats up.
Frequently asked questions
How far is SilverStar from Vernon?
SilverStar Mountain Resort is about 22 km northeast of Vernon. From Okanagan Landing, plan on roughly 30 to 40 minutes depending on road conditions.
Can you ski and live on the lake in Vernon?
Yes. Many Vernon residents live by Okanagan or Kalamalka Lake and ski at SilverStar all winter.
When is ski season at SilverStar?
It typically runs from late November into April, depending on conditions.
More guides to Okanagan Landing and The Strand
- What Is Winter Like at a Lakeside Condo in the Okanagan?
- What Is It Really Like to Live at The Strand Lakeside in Vernon?
- Retiring in Vernon, BC: Why Downsizers Choose the North Okanagan
- The Strand Lakeside FAQ: 50 questions answered
Have a question about waterfront living in Vernon?
I'm Sean Phillips, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty. I live at The Strand in Okanagan Landing and specialise in Vernon-area waterfront condos. For current listings and recent sales, visit 7343okanaganlanding.ca.
Text Sean: 778-363-0542
Call or text Sarah, my 24/7 info line: 604-227-4810
This article is general information as of fall 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, fees and conditions change, so always confirm details with the appropriate professional or authority before making a decision.
General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details for your situation with the appropriate professional.
