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If it's not the wine, or the beaches, or the heat — Kelowna is definitely known for its hiking trails and the unequalled scenery that comes with it.
Driving through BC may bring forward some of the most beautiful views, but hiking trails in the Okanagan offer hallmark moments and remarkable, natural scenes that can only be found in the valley.
Here are seven iconic hikes to make sure you trek before the season is over.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: 1km to 3km
While this is one of the easiest trails, often used for walking dogs through the park, don't underestimate the beautiful views that can be captured from atop Dilworth Mountain.
Home to Kelowna's national flower, the Okanagan sunflower called the Arrowleaf Balsamroot, the peak offers numerous picturesque moments and benches to soak them all in.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: Less than 1 km
If your family is looking for a quick and easy hike to feel the natural essence of Kelowna without all the work — you've found your trail.
The calm flow of the creek along the trail will ensure you stay in-tuned with nature while you walk toward the small, but satisfying, waterfall near the end of the short hike.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: Less than 1 km
The Hardy Falls Regional Park recently reopened after being closed due to "raging flood waters." The RDCO opened the route back up to residents on May 23, expecting a rush of hikers for the summer.
Like the Mill Creek hike, this will bring you along a short winding creek to a waterfall — but this one has a little more weight behind it. If you're moving between Kelowna and Penticton, this is one quick hike to take to see a fair-sized waterfall in a quiet and wonderful hike.
- Difficulty: Easy to hard
- Length: 1 to 5 km (park size: 367.34 hectares)
If you haven't hiked Knox Mountain, you may not be from Kelowna. As one of the most iconic Kelowna hikes and it is not difficult to see why.
With views overlooking downtown, Okanagan Lake and a trail leading to the well-known Paul's Tomb, this mountain deserves your attention for at least one hike this summer.
Kuiper's Peak Mountain Park
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: Less than 1 km
This one is perfect for a short walk with your dog, or a get-in-those-needed-steps for your fitness routine — it's short, but calming.
- Difficulty: Moderate to hard
- Length: 2 to 3 km
While Fintry may be across the lake, and a fair drive, but if you have the time it is a great way to spend an afternoon.
The walk up several flights of wooden stairs may be treacherous, but the view of the waterfall is sublime!
- Difficulty: Hard
- Length: 6 km
You may not find Bugs Bunny at the top, chewing on his carrots, but you will find beautiful panorama of West Kelowna, Shannon Lake and the Okanagan Lake.
The hike is tough, but you will know you've reached your goal when you can see the big maple leaf, the Canadian flag, which tops the mountain.
Be sure to be wary of bears as you go on these hikes! For more hikes in the Okanagan, click here, but be sure to check the status of the hiking trail before departing on your trip.
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