Find Your Own Path in Greater Vernon, the Official Trail Capital of BC
Surrounded by shimmering lakes, ancient forests and rolling grasslands, Greater Vernon is home to more than 500 kilometres of hiking, biking and multi-use trails through some of British Columbia’s most iconic landscapes.
From gentle lakeside strolls to heart-pumping black diamond trails, there’s something here for every outdoor adventurer. There are so many trails to explore that Greater Vernon was recognized as the Official Trail Capital of BC in 2023.
You can find a trail custom-fit to your preferred activity and ability level on this interactive trail map, along with everything you need to plan a safe and memorable outing, from route and terrain highlights to access points and parking details.
Here are four local favourites:
Coldstream Ranchlands Loop
Activities: Hiking, Snowshoeing
Length: 6.85 km loop
Ability level: Difficult
This challenging climb trail on Vernon Hill winds through open grasslands and up rocky slopes, gaining 324 metres of elevation. The effort is absolutely worth it: you’ll get panoramic views of two lakes (Okanagan and Kalamalka), two mountains (Middleton and Bluenose), and the sweeping Coldstream Valley below.
Wooden cattle crossings allow hikers access to protected parts of the trail that cross through the Agricultural Land Reserve, a rich habitat for local wildlife.
Goose Lake Range Park Trails
Activities: Hiking, Biking, Snowshoeing, Winter Fatbiking
Length: 3 km
Ability level: Easy
Newly opened in November 2025, this 113-acre park was specifically designed with accessibility in mind, making it a welcoming place for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities.
Located on a plateau between Swan and Okanagan lakes, the gently sloping gravel trails at Goose Lake curve through grasslands and wetlands, offering a close-up look at two distinct local ecosystems. The three non-motorized multi-use trails can be tackled individually or combined into a three-kilometre loop.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park Trails
Activities: Hiking, Biking, Snowshoeing
Length: 75 km
Ability level: Easy to expert
Known as Kal Park to locals, this provincial park covers more than 3,218 hectares of Okanagan grasslands broken up by stands of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir.
Kalamalka Lake itself is known for a unique natural phenomenon. In summer, limestone crystals form in the warming water, reflecting light that makes the lake appear glittering shades of turquoise blue and green.
Hikers can find lakeside views on Rattlesnake Point trail or climb the Lookout Trail for rambling views over the lake and Cosens Valley. Mountain bikers will want to head to the Cougar Canyon parking area, where the North Okanagan Cycling Society maintains a top-notch multi-use trail system.
Upper BX Creek Trail
Activities: Hiking, Biking
Length: 2.46 km lower section and 2.44 km upper section
Ability level: Moderate (lower) to Difficult (upper)
The forested lower section of this trail along BX Creek includes some bridges and boardwalks over rough patches in the dense forest, while the challenging upper section embraces its roots, rocks and uneven terrain.
Tackling the whole trail requires about 540 metres of elevation change, making this a physically challenging outing whether on foot or in the saddle.
Hikers looking for a bike-free alternative can explore the BX Creek Falls Trail, a three-kilometre one-way trail through the forested ravine along the creek. A steep stairway to the falls and several bridge crossings mean this is classified as a difficult trail, but taken at a reasonable pace, it’s still very manageable for families.
This article was sponsored by Tourism Vernon
No matter what kind of trail you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Greater Vernon – Trails Capital of BC. Learn more about Vernon’s extensive trail network or craft your own outdoor experience in the Okanagan Valley with the Interactive Trail Map.
