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This is not for the faint of heart. These swimming holes are as beautiful as they are cold. But if you’re daring enough to cool off after a hike, add these Kelowna hot spots to your list of daring Okanagan dips.
Rhonda Lake Big White
Let’s start with the coldest. At the base of Big White Ski Resort's Cliff Chair, lays Rhonda Lake.
At 6,600 feet above sea level, Rhonda Lake is filled with mountain water made of nothing but Okanagan Champagne Powder. So yeah, it’s cold.
To get to Rhonda Lake, take a drive up to Big White Ski Resort's Black Forest lodge and once you’re there, hike up the single track trail following this map.
Or take the scenic route! With a lift pass, you can access the hiking trail from the top of the Bullet chair and enjoy the spectacular view of where you ski in the winter.
Once you get to the water, don't be afraid to take the alpine dip!
Fun Fact: Elevation 57 Brewing Co. uses the icy cold water from Rhonda Lake as the base of all their beers.
Bear Creek Falls
Located across the road from the Bear Creek Provincial Campground on the west side of Okanagan Lake is a gorgeous waterfall and some chilly water. If you’re daring enough, Bear Creek Falls is absolutely stunning and should be on any hikers summer bucket list.
Before you take the drive to Bear Creek, get directions on the BC Parks website.
Once you arrive, be prepared for a hike as the loop can take about an hour and yes, it requires swimming, but don’t worry Bear Creek Falls isn’t as cold as Rhonda Lake.
Bear Creek Falls is well worth the hike and once you get to the falls, you’ll probably find some other brave BC swimmers to join you in the polar plunge.
Fintry Falls
Located in West Kelowna, about a 45 minute drive from downtown is Fintry Falls. When you get there, follow the wooden staircase that’ll lead you to one of the biggest waterfalls in Kelowna.
Go find Fintry Falls, it’s an easy walk and something that the entire family can handle. Everyone can appreciate the beauty of BC when they're surrounded by so much natural power, so take your time and enjoy the viewpoints while you look for a place to cool off. You can download an informative brochure titled, “Self Guided Nature Walk” on the BC Parks Website.
So there you have it, 3 refreshing places to cool off in the summer heat.
Just make sure you get photographic proof and when you post it to Instagram, tag @KelownaNow and use the #KelownaNow so everyone can see how cool you really are.
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