There is another reason to celebrate life in the North Okanagan. SilverStar Mountain Resort has been ranked among the top five ski resorts in North America in Condé Nast Traveller's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards. Coming in at number five, SilverStar earned a score of 93.26 out of 100, placing it just behind Whistler Blackcomb and making it one of Canada's highest-ranked ski destinations.

For Vernon and the surrounding North Okanagan, this recognition puts a familiar local destination in the international spotlight just as the 2026/2027 winter season approaches. It is also a reminder of the incredible recreational opportunities that make this region such a special place to call home.

What Makes SilverStar Stand Out?

Located approximately 22 kilometres northeast of downtown Vernon, SilverStar Mountain Resort is known for its colourful pedestrian village, ski-in, ski-out access and extensive mountain terrain. The resort features 133 marked runs across approximately 3,303 skiable acres, with 760 metres of vertical drop.

Beyond downhill skiing and snowboarding, SilverStar offers a range of winter activities for different interests and experience levels. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, skating, tubing and cross-country skiing, making the mountain an appealing destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to make the most of the winter months.

The resort's Nordic trail network connects with Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre, creating a combined system of approximately 105 kilometres of groomed trails for cross-country and skate skiing. With so many ways to get outside and enjoy the snow, SilverStar offers much more than a day on the slopes.

A Colourful Mountain Village With Four-Season Appeal

One of SilverStar's defining features is its pedestrian-friendly village, where colourful buildings, shops, restaurants and accommodation create a distinctive mountain atmosphere. With ski-in, ski-out access in winter and opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and other outdoor activities in warmer months, the area offers recreational appeal throughout the year.

That four-season lifestyle is part of what makes SilverStar an important part of the North Okanagan community. Whether someone is visiting for a weekend, planning a family getaway or looking for a mountain property to enjoy, the resort offers a different way to experience the Okanagan beyond its lakes, vineyards and valley communities.

Why This Recognition Matters for the North Okanagan

Being named one of North America's top five ski resorts is an exciting achievement for SilverStar and the people who help make the mountain experience special. The ranking is based on reader ratings in Condé Nast Traveller's annual Readers' Choice Awards, giving the recognition a direct connection to the experiences of travellers.

For the wider Vernon area, the news also highlights one of the many lifestyle advantages of living in the North Okanagan. Residents have access to mountain recreation, lakes, trails, parks and a variety of communities, all contributing to the region's appeal for people with different interests and priorities.

For those considering a move to the area, exploring the local lifestyle is an important part of finding the right place to call home. From properties in the SilverStar community to homes throughout Vernon and the surrounding communities, there are different ways to make the most of everything this region has to offer.

Explore SilverStar Real Estate and the Vernon Lifestyle

If mountain living has caught your attention, our Silver Star real estate page is a great place to start exploring homes and properties in the area. You can also browse our RE/MAX Vernon Salt Fowler website to discover properties throughout Vernon and the North Okanagan.

To learn more about the communities surrounding Vernon, explore our real estate blog for local insights, property information and updates about living in the Okanagan.

SilverStar's latest recognition gives us one more reason to appreciate the place we call home. With its distinctive village, extensive ski terrain and year-round outdoor opportunities, this local mountain continues to put the North Okanagan on the map.

Thinking About Making SilverStar or the North Okanagan Your Home?

From the colourful village at SilverStar Mountain Resort to the lakeside communities and welcoming neighbourhoods throughout Vernon and the North Okanagan, this region offers an incredible range of lifestyles to explore.

You can browse SilverStar properties and discover real estate opportunities in the surrounding area here:

Explore SilverStar Real Estate

Whether you are looking for a mountain getaway, a ski-in, ski-out property, a year-round home, or a place to enjoy the Okanagan's outdoor lifestyle, the Salt Fowler group can help you explore your options and find a property that fits your goals.

Because when it comes to finding a home in the North Okanagan, it is about more than the property itself.

It is about finding the lifestyle that feels right for you.

"Just Add Salt"

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Source notes: SilverStar Mountain Resort ranked fifth in North America in Condé Nast Traveller's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards. For award details, visit Condé Nast Traveller.