Okanagan, Canada Ski Resorts Delay Opening Due to Warm Weather: Apex, SilverStar, and Big White Push Back Opening Date

Published on November 28, 2025

As the ski season approaches, Apex Mountain Resort in British Columbia’s Okanagan region has announced a delay in its planned opening due to recent weather conditions. The announcement comes just days after similar delays were made by nearby resorts, SilverStar Mountain in Vernon and Big White near Kelowna. For visitors planning their winter getaways, this delay may come as a disappointment, but safety remains the top priority for these ski destinations, with resorts working hard to prepare for an exceptional season.

Weather Challenges Impacting Ski Resorts Across the Okanagan

Apex Mountain Resort’s delay is not an isolated case; the entire Okanagan ski region is facing challenges as warm temperatures and insufficient snowfall at lower elevations have led to delays at multiple resorts. Both SilverStar and Big White had initially planned to open on November 27, but, like Apex, they are now pushing back their opening dates into December. The unseasonably warm weather has hampered natural snow accumulation, with snowmaking efforts also delayed by several weeks due to higher-than-usual temperatures.

For Apex, the situation is particularly challenging. While the resort has received significant snow at higher altitudes, rain at the lower elevations has washed away the snow base, making it unsafe to open the slopes. Despite receiving snowfall as recently as November 24, the resort does not yet have enough of a snow base to open on its original schedule of December 6.

Ensuring Safety Amid Weather Delays

James Shalman, the general manager of Apex Mountain Resort, emphasized that the delay was necessary to ensure the safety of visitors. The lack of snow coverage at the lower elevations, combined with unpredictable weather patterns, means the resort cannot safely operate the slopes until the conditions improve. While the resort is optimistic that favorable snowmaking temperatures will help make up for lost time, there is still a lot of work to do before the mountain is ready for guests.

The resort’s snowmaking operations have been ramped up in recent days, with the colder temperatures helping to create a more stable base. However, the delay in snowmaking has put the resort behind schedule, and the planned December 6 opening is now contingent on continued favorable weather conditions.

A Wider Issue for Ski Resorts in the Okanagan

The delay at Apex Mountain Resort is part of a broader trend in the region. Both SilverStar and Big White have faced similar delays, with warmer-than-usual weather hindering their snowmaking efforts. Ski resorts across the Okanagan are dealing with the impacts of these unpredictable weather patterns, which have made it difficult to build the necessary snow base for a safe and enjoyable ski season.

This pattern of delays highlights the challenges faced by ski resorts in adapting to changing weather conditions. The unseasonably warm temperatures have not only affected snow accumulation but have also limited the time available for snowmaking, which is critical for ensuring that the slopes are ready for guests.

Patience Requested from Visitors

While the delay is disappointing for skiers and snowboarders eager to hit the slopes, resort management at Apex, SilverStar, and Big White are asking for patience from the public. All three resorts are working tirelessly to ensure that once the slopes are open, guests will have the best possible experience. Safety cannot be compromised, and resort management has made it clear that they will not rush the opening process.

Shalman and other resort leaders share the excitement of opening day with visitors but are prioritizing safety in order to ensure that the slopes are fully prepared for the season. The weather forecast for the winter season looks promising, and the resorts are confident that conditions will improve in the coming weeks, allowing them to open safely and offer an exceptional experience for winter sports enthusiasts.

Conclusion: A Temporary Setback, But an Exciting Winter Ahead

Although the delayed opening of Apex Mountain Resort, SilverStar, and Big White may delay the start of the ski season, the outlook for winter sports enthusiasts remains positive. The ski resorts in the Okanagan region are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience, and the snowmaking efforts are already underway to ensure the slopes are ready as soon as possible.

For travelers planning a ski trip to the Okanagan, it’s important to stay updated on the latest resort announcements and be prepared for possible delays in opening dates. While the wait may be longer than expected, the resorts are optimistic that once they open, visitors will enjoy a fantastic winter season. The forecast for snow and colder temperatures in the coming days is promising, and the resorts are confident that the ski season will offer ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned skier, the Okanagan ski resorts are ready to welcome visitors with world-class slopes and top-notch amenities as soon as conditions allow. For now, though, patience is key as the resorts prepare for an amazing winter ahead.