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Trail: Rose Valley Regional Park
Trail Distance & Difficulty:
Bunchgrass Trail - 0.6km, Moderate
Yellow Bell Loop Trail - 3.1km, Moderate
Forest Loop Trail - 2km, Easy
Bitterroot Loop Trail - 2.8km, Moderate
Directions:
Located in West Kelowna. From Hwy 97 turn on Westlake Road. Take second exit at the roundabout to stay on Westlake Rd. Follow along until you see the gravel parking lot on the left.
Description:
I have always stuck to the McDougall Rim trail above Rose Valley Regional Park. But this week, we decided to check out the trails in the park. I am actually disappointed in myself for not checking this area out sooner! Stunning views and endless trails, this area is a must to explore!!
From the parking area we headed up the Bunchgrass trail. Lined with Arrowleaf Balsam Root, also known as the Okanagan sunflower, this trail is a nice little warm up. Soon we reached the Yellow Bell Loop Trail. There are many trail options to choose from. We headed left on the Yellow Bell Trail to do the exterior loop of all three remaining trails.
Working our way up the Yellow Bell Trail, we eventually came to a lookout overlooking Kelowna. As we continued on the trail we soon came to the Forest Loop Trail, here we went left. From here the trail is a nice easy stroll through the forest. Within a km or so we came to the Bitterroot Loop Trail and went left. Soon we reached another view point, this time overlooking parts of Kelowna and towards Boucherie Mountain in West Kelowna!
As we carried on the Bitterroot Trail, we headed right to do the loop. From here on, the view spots are endless! This trail is by far my favorite in this park. Working our way up the rocky ridge we were treated to an unobstructed view towards Knox Mountain in Kelowna, the Okanagan Lake and the Bridge! We found a perfectly placed bench for a little break before continuing on.
As we proceeded on the trail working our way to the end of the ridge, the reservoir was now in site! Looking from left to right, the views are spectacular!! Positioned perfectly between the Rose Valley reservoir and the Okanagan Lake, you can not go wrong with this view!
Continuing on the loop we came to yet another bench perched over the reservoir. From here the stunning views include the towering cliffs above! After enjoying this view, we continued on the trail heading back down. We ended up taking the opposite trails back down to the Bunchgrass Trail and then back to the parking lot.
With four marked trails and many side trails, you can choose different variations for your own hiking experience! Please be cautious of bikers, as this is a very popular mountain bike riding area. Also watch your footing, as there are a few rocks sticking out of the trail causing little obstacles for you to stub your toes on (as I did plenty!)
Due to all the rain and flooding we are receiving in the Okanagan, this trail is a perfect (dry) place to explore. With most of our waterfall trails closed from high waters, choosing mountain trails is a good idea. Please be safe and respect the closures!
Always remember to be mindful of your surroundings, pack out what you pack in, stick to the trails and Happy Exploring!
Things to bring:
Dogs on leash welcome
Good footwear
Bear spray is always a good thing to carry
Water/ Snack
Phone/ Camera
Born and raised in the Okanagan, Kristy Draginda has always had a strong passion for the outdoors. Whether it be hiking to the top of a mountain or standing below a waterfall, she says there is no better feeling than being inspired by nature. Follow along as Kristy shares different hiking locations in and around the Okanagan. For more adventure photos, check out Hiking the Okanagan on Instagram or Facebook.
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