Beginner runs
The best beginner runs at SilverStar
Where first-timers and nervous skiers should start, from a Mountain Host who takes new skiers around the mountain.
Updated October 2026 · by Sean Phillips, REALTOR®
What are the best runs at SilverStar for beginners?
Start at the Silver Queen beginner area, served by its own quad chair, and the Discovery Zone magic carpet; a beginner lift ticket covers both. Next, try the family favourites Peanut Trail and Challenger. About 15% of SilverStar’s 133 runs are rated easiest, and the resort was voted Best for Beginners in the HWK Ski Awards.
Last verified October 10, 2026 by Okanagan Lifestyle Real Estate Agent Sean Phillips
Where to start
- Discovery Zone: the “The Zone” magic carpet for true first-timers.
- Silver Queen: a dedicated beginner area with its own quad chair, gentle groomed slopes and the Start Park, a beginner terrain park.
- The Beginner Zone: mapped near the base of the gondola and Comet Express.
A beginner lift ticket covers the Silver Queen chair and the Discovery Zone carpet, so you don’t pay for terrain you won’t use yet.
Your next step up
The resort names Peanut Trail and Challenger as family favourites. Silver Queen is also lit for night skiing on Friday and Saturday evenings, on 4 km of beginner and intermediate trails.
How the terrain breaks down
| Rating | Share of terrain |
|---|---|
| Easiest (green), plus the Silver Queen beginner area | 15% |
| Intermediate (blue) | 40% |
| Most difficult (black) | 35% |
| Extreme | 10% |
Most green terrain is on the front side. The Putnam Creek backside is mostly steep blue and black terrain, so save it for later.
Sources: Skiing and snowboarding · Winter tickets · For families · Terrain parks · 2025/26 trail map (PDF).
Photos from the mountain
Photos: Sean Phillips. Tap any photo to see it larger.
More questions
Is SilverStar good for beginners?
Yes. It has a dedicated Silver Queen beginner area with its own chair, the Discovery Zone carpet, a beginner-only lift ticket, and it was voted Best for Beginners in the HWK Ski Awards.
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