If you’re looking to explore the beautiful Okanagan Valley, here are my favourite Kelowna area hikes and trails! I’m in constant awe of the natural beauty of the area, and this list has something for everyone visiting Kelowna in search of fresh air and exploring on foot.
One of the many reasons I love Kelowna is the hiking and walking trails! Nothing compares to the fresh air and the stunning lake views that many of these trails offer. If you are hiking with your furry friend, make sure to check if dogs are welcome and don’t forget the leash! Also, I feel obligated to remind you to wear proper shoes and bring water to keep you hydrated.
Here is a round up of my six top Kelowna hikes and trails to add to your list!
1. Pincushion Mountain Trail
This is a 3.5-km out-and-back trail near Peachland. The views are stunning and worth the grind! It is generally considered a moderately challenging route, but is very popular for a reason. I mean, look at that view?!
2. Knox Mountain Apex Trail
Overview: kid friendly, dog friendly, views of the city
Length: 4.2k
Map: Location (parking lot)
It wouldn’t be a Kelowna Hiking Guide without mentioning Knox Mountain! If you’re looking for a “highlight reel of Kelowna”, this trail is for you. Located in the heart of Kelowna, it is generally considered a moderately challenging route, and it takes an average of 1 h 38 min to complete. The base of the mountain lands so close to downtown, making it a popular spot for a hike, followed by a walk downtown for a coffee or smoothie. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas! Filled with stunning views of Kelowna at every twist and turn, consider having your GPS on if you have a specific trail in mind as there are a LOT of meandering paths through this park.
3. Paul’s Tomb
Overview: very easy, kid-friendly, cliff jumping in summer, leads to beach
Length: 4.8k
Map: Location
Paul’s Tomb trail does in fact lead to the tomb of the Paul family. Rembler Paul, one of Kelowna’s pioneers, built a large tomb for his family in the early 1900s can be viewed once you near the bottom of the hike. The door to the tomb is exposed should you want to take a peek. Apparently there is a beautiful beach with a secluded swimming hole near the bottom of the hike – it’s on my list! The hike is on the easier side and takes around 1 hour 20 minutes to complete.
4. Mount Boucherie Trail
Overview: challenging, rattle snakes, dogs on leash, forest/lake views
Length: 5.6k
Map: Location
This 5.6km trail in West Kelowna is generally considered a moderately challenging route, and takes around 2 hours to complete. I won’t lie, this hike made me more than a little nervous when I took my son Charlie (10 years old). There are steep areas and drop offs along with panoramic stunning views that make it worth the climb! The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
5. Myra Canyon Trail
Overview: walking, dogs on leash, biking, kid-friendly, trestles
Length: 25.1k
Map: Location
Myra Canyon is a must-see, and is home to 18 trestle bridges along the abandoned Kettle Valley Railway that was once used to service the mining industry. The 25km out-and-back trail near Kelowna is very popular among hikers and bikers; it’s considered a moderately challenging route and takes just over 6 hours to complete. The best times to visit this trail are March through November. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
6. Kalamoir Regional Park
Overview: kid friendly, dog on leash, lake views
Length: 3.5k
Map: Location
This 3.5-km loop trail that takes you along the lakeshore is my go-to and has been for years. Located in my very own neck of the woods, West Kelowna, it is generally considered an easy route and takes an average of an hour to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people (maybe me lol) while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
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