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Trail: Mount Kobau
Trail Distance: 1.3 km round trip
Trail Difficulty: Easy
Directions
Located in Osoyoos. From Hwy 97, head west on Hwy 3 (signs for Keremeos/Vancouver). Follow for 11 km, past Spotted Lake, and turn right onto Kobau Lookout Forest Service Road. Follow this FSR for roughly 20 km until you reach the parking area.
Description
Located in the South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area, the trail to the summit of Mount Kobau is just the beginning of this beautiful protected park!
The road to the summit of Mount Kobau was completed in 1966 and was planned to be the home of the second largest astronomical observatory in the world. But, due to rising costs and difference in opinions, the plan was abandoned and now offers stunning views with easy access!
From the parking area, we headed left following the Mt. Kobau Lookout sign to reach the summit. This short, wide path lead us along the sub-alpine ridge. Within 1 km, we were standing on top of Mount Kobau with a spectacular 360° view! Sitting at 1,873 meters you receive an unobstructed view looking over all of Osoyoos, Oliver and towards the Cascade Mountains. Although the 2015 Testalinden Creek forest fire did a lot of damage to this area, the views are still breathtaking (without the hard work)!
A Star Party is held at the top each year in July, and 2017 will be the 34th annual! This event attracts star enthusiasts from all over to come enjoy the calm, dark skies.
Always remember to be mindful of your surroundings, pack out what you pack in, stick to the trails and Happy Exploring!
Special Notes
There is a minor landslide 13 km on the main road, but there is a lane around it.
Be prepared as weather can change very quickly!
Plenty of bugs, so bring bug spray!
Use established trails to help minimize disturbance and prevent the spread of unwanted plant species.
Things to bring
Dogs on leash welcome
Appropriate footwear
Bear Spray is always a good thing to carry
Bug Spray
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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