Discover the Official Trails Capital of BC This Fall

Rebecca Bollwit

Surrounded by hills and mountains, and framed by Okanagan, Kalamalka and Swan Lakes, Vernon boasts breathtaking landscapes and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. While its picturesque setting in the Okanagan Valley attracts golfers, rock climbers and water sports enthusiasts, the beauty of Greater Vernon, located a 50-kilometre drive north of Kelowna, might be best experienced through its trails.

Joe Roberts

From serene lakeshore strolls to adrenalin-pumping climbs and thrilling mountainside singletrack, Greater Vernon boasts one of British Columbia’s largest and most diverse trail networks—earning the title of “Official Trails Capital of BC” in 2023. With consistently warm summer weather often extending into the fall, September and October are perfect to explore Vernon’s trails without the crowds.

Here are six must-see spots to check out on your next trip.

Jordan McGrath

Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

The largely undeveloped Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park boasts an impressive network of trails with many interconnecting routes, perfect to choose-your-own-adventure. After enjoying Kal Lake, you can hike the park’s trails to appreciate the ever-changing colours of this glacial lake, which ranges from a shimmering aqua to a rich emerald green.

Suggested Adventure: Take the seven-kilometre Cosens Bay Trail to Cosens Bay Beach, where the cottonwood trees that line its banks turn golden from mid to late October or tackle the 6.1-kilometre loop that combines the Lookout and Parabola trails, which offer views of Coldstream, Kalamalka Lake and Vernon.

Kai Jacobson

SilverStar Mountain Resort

While SilverStar Mountain Resort’s 3,200 acres of skiable terrain turn it into a paradise for powder hounds each winter, its trails make it a hub for hikers and mountain bikers during the summer and fall. Part of the Monashee Mountain range, the network of trails offers plenty of opportunity to see stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Suggested Adventure: The 3.9-kilometre Attridge Scenic Loop via the Ridgewalk Trail starts from the laid-back alpine village and leads to the summit of SilverStar Mountain. Mountain bikers looking for a thrilling ride should tackle the Shazam Trail, a fun and flowy route with a mix of berms, jumps and technical sections.

Kai Jacobson

Ellison Provincial Park

Carpeted by 480 acres of Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, Ellison Provincial Park, on the northeastern shore of Okanagan Lake, is a playground for outdoor adventurers. Aside from designated rock climbing areas and two sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing, it’s also home to several trails that provide stunning views of the lake and surrounding area.

Suggested Adventure: Hike the 2.9-kilometre, family-friendly Nature Trail loop. For a weekend immersed in the park’s natural beauty, base yourself at one of the 71 front-country campsites equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, toilets and showers, which are available to reserve from April to October.

Predator Ridge

Just a quick 15-minute drive southwest of downtown Vernon, this premier resort community is a haven for golf and outdoor enthusiasts. Aside from its two 18-hole championship golf courses, you’ll find over 35 kilometres of well-maintained hiking and walking trails along with 13.5 kilometres of dedicated mountain biking trails. These trails connect to over 40 kilometres of routes in Ellison Provincial Park.

Suggested Adventure: For stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the lush fairways of Predator Ridge, take the three-kilometre Okanagan Lake Lookout Trail.

Jordan McGrath

BX Creek and Falls Trail

The gentle murmur of BX Creek and its tranquil environment make this six-kilometre out-and-back hike a local favourite. Follow BX Creek along the path and wind through lush forests before reaching the picturesque BX Falls. Despite a few bridge crossings and steep stairs, the trail remains accessible for trail runners and hikers of all levels, including families with children.

Celebrate the Arts

While hiking Vernon’s trails allows you to appreciate its natural beauty by physically connecting with the land, the Sundog Festival of Arts and Culture offers a chance to connect with the local community on a cultural level. Kicking off BC Culture Days, the second annual Sundog Festival celebrates the local community’s love for arts and culture with live music, cultural performances and craft show displays on September 20 and 21. This family-friendly event is free and invites you to engage with talented local artists, artisans and crafters.

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