North/Central Okanagan U-Pick | Spring, Summer, or Fall | Weeklong Tour

“WAY”, welcome (nsyilxcen) to the unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan; Interior Salish people of these lands. Our road trip begins at the gateway to the Valley on the territorial lands of the Secwepemc People - then onto the Okanagan through the unceded lands of the Okanagan/Sylix.

Give yourself at least seven days for this Indigenous-inspired road trip through the North/Central Okanagan. We encourage you to slow down and experience the wonders and culture of the area.

A traveller is one who “immerses themself in the places they visit.” Responsible travellers plan, choosing experiences that leave a small ecological footprint. Our road trips are packed full of culture, and we encourage you to stop in rural or Indigenous communities, stay in locally run accommodations, eat and sip at small shops, and buy from local artisans.

Our trips are all connected, but you can experience them independently or combine to create the adventure of a lifetime. The Okanagan is our home, and there are many bonus blogs on our website that will assist you in customizing your stay in the Valley.

Lim ‘limpt (thank you).

The Vagabonds.

Sicamous and Enderby

2 days

Just east of the outlet of the Shuswap River on the sandy banks of Mara Lake is the Village of Sicamous.  The main development of the village is at the narrows, a short channel connecting Mara and Shuswap Lake and home to “summer beach” -a seasonal sandbar that appears in the shallows in July and August. Years ago, before first contact, Sicamous was a significant gathering place for the Interior Salish people who followed the area's waterways and ancestral trails to Shuswap Lake, a sacred body of water occupying a deep fjord carved into the rugged landscape of the Rocky Mountains.

A popular place to see the two lakes and the rambling river is the old hang-gliding ramp at the Sicamous Lookout. (The lookout is a short walk from where you park.)  The valley view from here is breathtaking! Mara, the smaller of the two lakes, shimmers in the distance - an inviting blue beacon beckoning you to play in its seasonally warm waters. If you have your kayak with you, tour the shoreline close to the mouth of the river where you can see pictographs dating back about 200 years. There are lots of white sandy beaches in the area – some on the cooler Shuswap Lake, others on Mara.

There are plenty of easy walks along the old railway on the northeast shore of the lake, or you can hike to Sicamous Creek Falls. When you get to the falls, you can take a more rigorous route to the top of the mountain or climb alongside the tumbling creek, using ropes to reach increasingly higher vantage points.

At the end of the day, stop by Moose Mulligans Pub. Sit on the patio if you can and watch houseboats navigate the narrows to Shuswap Lake. Sicamous is known as the Houseboat Capital of Canada.

There are plenty of places to stay in the area. Hummingbird Resort offers vintage accommodation with beachside firepits and boasts the best beach on the lake. Shmuck’s Roadhouse offers 70’s-style A-frame cabins with a personal hot tub. If you want to tent, there’s a simple campsite beside Eagle Creek. Whether you spend the night here or in Enderby make sure to reserve ahead.

Sicamous has been an important gathering and fishing site for the Splatsin Indian Band since time immemorial. These semi-nomadic people travelled with the seasons, hunting, foraging, and fishing.

Wildlife in Sicamous | Bear and Beaver

Indigenous landmarks in the area include Swa7wilc (Shuswap Falls), Xatewtalc (Eagle Rock), and Quilakwa Mountain, the site of the last battle fought between the Splatsin and Kutenai (Kootenay) (also known as the Ktunaxa Ksanka (k-SAHN-kah)). This lushly forested area is filled with abundant waterways to explore, trails to follow, and history to discover.

Enderby

Route 97 is a beautiful stretch of highway connecting Sicamous to Osoyoos and the American Border. The section of highway that runs alongside Mara Lake is one of our favourite road trips anywhere, roll down the windows and inhale the fragrant humid air as you cruise the curves that caress the Monashee Mountains and shoreline. The highway is single lane to Enderby and the speed limit is not a suggestion here. As you maneuver a sweeping corner into the hamlet of Grindrod, you'll see an old barn-like building covered with shiny hub caps. We love the sign which says "we collect junk and sell antiques" - if you have a moment you can pull over and check out the relics..

A little further west you’ll reach Enderby, a quaint and irresistibly groovy small City built where the Shuswap Highlands meet the Okanagan Basin at Enderby Cliffs. One of the most popular and challenging hikes in the highlands, with panoramic views that stretch south to Vernon and north to Salmon Arm, the 2200-meter hike to the summit is for more advanced hikers, but the first 650 meters is family-friendly and takes you to The Shrine.

The landscape changes the higher you climb passing through groves of birch and aspen that gradually give way to ancient forests of cedar, hemlock, and fir. The giant hill is a 50-million-year-old lava field carved by glaciers and home to an abundance of wildlife including cougar, bear, deer, and birds of prey, which love to glide on the thermal updrafts.

The southernmost tribe of the Secwépemc Nation, the Splatsin’s First Nations Reservation is adjacent to the City; the Splatsin Community Centre, a 35,000 square foot architectural marvel merges modern technology with natural features and a living roof. Resembling a traditional kekuli (pit house), the structure uses locally sourced products with replicas of ancient Indigenous pictographs painted around the exterior.

After your hike, head to the Shuswap River Float – the best place to tube in the summer sunshine. The float from Belvidere Park to Tuey Park takes an hour and a half, while Eby Hand Launch to Belvidere takes close to five hours.

There are three wineries in the area including Larch Hills, which is the highest elevation winery in North America. Growing European varietals like Siegerrebe, Madeleine Angevine, St. Laurent, and Lemberger grapes, it’s a unique experience that is much different than wine sampling further south in the valley. Baccata Ridge Winery is a quaint little farmgate meadery that serves delicious blueberry wine, if you have time it’s a great place to stop.

There are plenty of places in town to grab a handcrafted beverage, homecooked meal, or enjoy a local busker in the revitalized downtown. You can stay in the Indigenous-owned Quilakwa RV Park on the riverbank, or book a night at The Treehouse at J <3 Y, a planet-friendly B&B after viewing the double feature at the vintage Starlight Drive-In.

In the Winter:

• Waterside Vineyard and Winery

• View the winter home of the Trumpeter Swans who gather on the river.

• Snowshoe at Larch Hill Ski Area.

• The Shuswap Trail Alliance organizes interpretive snowshoe tours of the Enderby Cliffs. Learn about the geology, ecology, and cultural significance the Cliffs have to the Splatsin First Nations.

Note: Travelling BC Highways in the winter requires the use of appropriate tires, and a four-wheel drive is strongly recommended. Pack a safety kit including warm blankets, snacks and water. Some travellers choose to carry chains through these areas.

Places to Stay:

• Hummingbird Resort - Mara Lake

• Joe Schmuck’s Roadhouse - Sicamous

• An off-grid solar powered cabin at the Tin Poppy – Enderby area

• Indigenous-owned and operated Quilakwa RV Park - Enderby

• The Treehouse at J <3 Y a green tiny house experience for the adventurous - Enderby

• Riverside RV Park and Campground - Enderby

Where to Eat:

• Moose Mulligans Pub – great pub food -Sicamous

• Joe Schmuck’s Roadhouse - contemporary pub style food - Sicamous

• Kaze Japanese Restaurant - popular Japanese food meny - Enderby

• D&E Drive-In - really good 50’s style burger bar - Enderby

Armstrong, Vernon

2 days

Armstrong is a small city located between Enderby and Vernon.  Full of history and culture – and home to the annual Interior Provincial Exhibition and Stampede (IPE) since 1899 you’ll find a spattering of working ranches dotting the landscape.

There is an essence of goodness in these rolling farmlands that can’t be denied. Armstrong’s agricultural roots are steeped in the farm-fresh goodness of produce, livestock, and the emergence of wildcraft farming, a contemporary word for foraging from the land.

Farmstrong Cider Company makes small batch craft cider on a heritage farm - or visit Orchard Blossom Honey where you can bring your own bucket to be filled. There are several Alpaca ranches in the area that are sustainably and humanely producing some of the finest fibres on the planet. Guardian dogs roam with the herd protecting them from local predators.

One of our favourite places to stop in the Okanagan is The Village Cheese Company in downtown Armstrong.  Watch master cheesemakers at their craft and replenish your snack pack after a quick lunch. Also featured in the Consciously Curated Local Shop's section of our website.

Today, Armstrong is a waylayer and innovator in the Okanagan. Located slightly north of the most temperate growing zone, its agricultural roots remain steeped in the farm-fresh goodness of produce and livestock ranching - a perfect recipe for agricultural tourism or an evening at Caravan Farm Theatre where planning is underway for the 2021 season.

Vernon

After a few hours in Armstrong, continue south towards Vernon. If you have time, you can take Otter Lake Road to the Historic O’Keefe Ranch and step back in time to 1867. This heritage site tells the story of early BC ranching and culture. We love wandering the property, which resembles a quaint period town, complete with a general store, post office, and blacksmith shop. Many of the original buildings still exist.

Located on the unceded lands of the Sylix Okanagan Peoples (Sylix/Okanagan) is Vernon. The Okanagan Indian Band, members of the eight member bands of the region, reserve lands lay between the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake and Wood Lakes (encompassing 24,742 acres).

Vernon is a farm-to-table foodie destination that offers a diverse sampling of independently owned restaurants, pubs, and cideries. Davison Orchard features a local café and market along with orchards to explore and the best apple juice in town! You can hop on “Johnny Popper Train” for tractor rides around the property or head next door to Planet Bee Honey Farm and Meadery for a sampling of mead and some sweet treats.

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery is Western Canada’s original craft distillery, using 100% locally grown fruits and grains to make premium, world-class spirits. Stop in for a flight and tour of this amazing facility which is featured in our Consciously Curated Local Shops as well as the SIPS section of our website.

One of our favourite stops, and our Vagabond Pick, is BX Press Cidery and Orchard – in the rolling farmlands of East Vernon. You’ll get a history lesson of the area while tasting some of the best apple cider in the province. If you check ahead, they often have live music in the evenings, complete with wood-fired pizza served under the Okanagan sunset. A trip to Vernon isn’t complete without a stop at this third-generation orchard.

Check out our EAT and SIP sections of our website to help customize your itinerary to please your palette.  Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries are located on the downtown Mural Walk which depicts the history of the city. Check out the Greater Vernon and Archives for tour bookings.

If you have time, a tour of Mackie Tea House is a vintage experience on the shores of Kalamalka Lake, check their calendar to see what is new for 2021.

Kalamalka Lake (Kal Lake) or the lake of a thousand colours, is home to some of the best sand beaches in the Valley. This is an exotic 'marl' lake, an unusual phenomenon that occurs when limestone sediment from receding glaciers crystalizes in the water under the heat of the sun.  In hot weather, the lake reflects an iridescent spectrum of blue, turquoise, and green. The hotter it gets, the more the lake reflects. Much of the area surrounding Kalamalka Lake is within provincial protected parks, conserving our unique drylands ecosystems. 

Kal Lake is also the gateway to some of the area's most scenic hiking trails, hidden coves and beaches, and cliff diving. Most of these gems are accessed at the main parking lot in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park.

There are six known sites of lithic artifacts (stone tools or weapons) along with evidence of small village clusters of kekulis (pit houses) and a larger cultural village in the park. If you stumble upon an artifact, please leave it as you found it; these are historic treasures and the cultural property of the Syilx/Okanagan people.

The arid hills surrounding the lake are home to scattered groves of ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and prickly cactus hidden in the tall grasses that fill the landscape. The spring wildflower show is spectacular showcasing important Indigenous flowers like arrowleaf, balsamroot, sp‘iƛ̓əm Chief bitterroot, known as the chief for things under the ground to the Sylix/Okanagan.

The four Chiefs, Skemxist (Black Bear), Siya (Saskatoon Berry), Spitlem (Bitter Root), Ntyxtix (King Salmon), worked together to determine how to provide sustenance to the Stelsqilxw (people not yet here) addressing the challenges they would face, and collaborating to overcome them, resulting in this sacred chaptikwl of the Four Food Chiefs.

Kal Lake is home to some of the best beaches in Vernon. Kal Beach is the main beach, located in the heart of Coldstream and the most popular beach for tourists. It’s also right across from Kalavida Surf Shop where you can rent paddleboards and bikes.

Jade and Juniper Bay beaches, side-by-side, are often the inspiration for photographers who can’t resist the picturesque views of the turquoise water and surrounding valley. Both beaches have plenty of shade to get you out of the sun and are a short walk from the main parking lot.  There are some really cool swimming holes just off the nearby pathways through the trees. 

Also found in the park’s protected area is the incredibly stunning beach at Cosens Bay. Hike-in (or boat access) only, this little piece of paradise is a great place to bring your dog for a swim. Cosens Bay Trail is a short 2.5-kilometre hike from the main parking lot.

Rock climbing opportunities are abundant in the area with Cougar Canyon being a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Okanagan Lake is the largest lake in the Okanagan Valley with a surface area of 348 square kilometers. Ellison Park is the deepest spot in the lake at 232 metres and a great place to camp along the water (but it books up fast). Kin Beach is one of Vernon’s main tourist attractions and the largest beach in the area. Bring your four-legged friends to the south end of the beach or camp at Sandy Beach Campground. Nearby Paddlewheel Park & Beach is a great spot for a picnic and popular for families with young kids.

The lake is home to the legendary Ogopogo, the creature that lives at Squally Point in the caves around Rattlesnake Island. The Okanagan/Sylix know the serpent as N’Haatik, whose legend is of great cultural importance to the people. Having participated in a Water Tour hosted by the Okanagan Nation Alliance (ONA), an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper shared the story where N’Haatik exists in two forms: a spiritual entity that possesses the currents and mood of the water and a physical embodiment that manifests during times of significance. In respect of the spirit, the Okanagan/Sylix bless the waters of Okanagan Lake with offerings of tobacco and sage, thanking N’Haatik for providing sustenance to their people, and lands they call home.

Vernon is also the (current) starting point of the Okanagan Rail Trail, known as xwił iʔ sw̓kʷnaʔqin (the road of the Okanagan People in nysyilxcn). The road follows an abandoned rail bed constructed along the ancestral trails of the Okanagan/Syilx. The 50-kilometre trail has some of the best views in the entire Okanagan Valley, as it weaves its way alongside Route 97 next to the vibrant blue colours of Kal Lake. Access points are in Coldstream (below the college at Kick Willie Loop Road and Westkal Road) or at Kekuli Bay Provincial Park south of Vernon. Note: Some parts of the trail are still under construction.

In the Winter:

Please check ahead for COVID 19 Travel Restrictions

• SilverStar over 130 runs. Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, sleigh rides, tubing, snowmobiling

• Sovereign Lake have groomed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and Nordic activities

• Winter fishing on any number of small well-stocked lakes in the area

Where to Eat:

Please visit the North Okanagan EAT section of the website

Places to Stay:

• Sparkling Hill Resort - Vernon

• Kathleen’s Rustic Trappers Cabin – Vernon

• Tatawaw Kanata Glamping and Wellness - Vernon

• Ellison Provincial Park Campground - Vernon

• Cedar Falls Campground - Vernon

• Check out local accommodations on bookdifferent.com

Lake Country

1 day

Halfway between Vernon and Kelowna, Lake Country is a quintessentially-Okanagan location on one of the most picturesque and intimate circle drives in the Valley (along Route 97 returning on Westside Road).

The Syilx/Okanagan people call the area K’lakokum, meaning "the land between" and this resplendent swatch of earth examples a transitional point in the Valley. After Lake Country, life gets a little busier for a while so relax and enjoy the ride.

Heading south on the 97, travellers will be treated to breathtaking views of three connected lakes; Kalamalka Lake, Wood Lake, and Duck Lake as they travel to the communities of Oyama, Winfield, Carr’s Landing, and Okanagan Centre that together, constitute the hub of Lake Country.

BC's premier grape-growing region begins in Winfield, just 20 minutes south of Vernon and extends to the American border. The north - central wineries are located around the areas of Lake Country, Carr’s Landing, and Okanagan Centre (all a short drive from each other).

The first community you’ll reach is Oyama, known by many as the Jewel of the Okanagan or “Axas-lu-chus” (the Indigenous name for Oyama) meaning “the Peninsula going across”. The Okanagan Indian Band and municipality are working on the development of an Indigenous Cultural Centre adjacent to the Okanagan Rail Trail and boat launch on the peninsula.

Stop in Gatzke’s Farm Market just off Highway 97 to walk the orchards and check out a seasonal sample of the fifty varieties of fruits that grow in the area. A visit to Oyama Zipline Adventure Park for an exhilarating ride above the trees offers sweeping views of Kalamalka and Wood Lakes. Family-friendly with a kids' play park, it's a fantastic stop if you can spare the time.

The natural landscape here is drier, a little more desert-like as we head further south. A quick hike up to the Oyama Lookout will add perspective to the subtle layers of blue and grey that rise from the waters to the heavens, soaring above the sandy trails , benches and beaches of this coveted destination.

A wine and food corridor, you’ll find one of our favourite Local Shops – Olive Us in the community of WInfield. This oil and vinegar tasting room is a truly decadent experience, and quick stop!

If you’re looking to go on a freshwater dive after your wine tastings, Otter Bay in Ellison Provincial Park (a few miles north of Carr’s Landing) is the site of western Canada's first freshwater scuba-diving and snorkeling park. You’ll find nice walking trails to the headlands between two beautiful bays, that offer good fishing spots and some pretty impressive bouldering opportunities.

We have lots of great suggestions available in the Central Okanagan EATS, SIPS and PLAY sections of our website, but some of our favourite wineries include:

50th Parallel Estate Winery - locally known as the Glam Farmers, owners Curtis Krouzel and Sheri-Lee Turner-Krouzel cultivated the land and built the estate from the ground up. And they craft one of the best examples of Pinot Noir in the Valley!

Arrowleaf Cellars – a busy but delightful stop with stunning panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding landscape. They offer the best picnic charcuterie paired with delicious wine and samplings of their exquisite French-style pastries. Patrons are welcome to bring a picnic lunch of their own but make sure to sample a few of the award-winning wines.

Gray Monk Estate Winery, Ancient Hill Estate Winery, 50th Parallel Estate Winery

Gray Monk Estate Winery – a pioneer in BC winemaking and landmark in the Valley. Their unwooded chardonnay is a fine example of a refreshingly clean chardonnay that exhibits the characteristics of the fruit – as intended. The Lookout Restaurant has one of the best patios in the Okanagan with stunning views of Okanagan Lake.

Ancient Hill Estate Winery - just outside of Kelowna in an unexpected location across from the airport. A true hidden gem, this family-run boutique exists in a pastoral country setting surrounded by magnificent gardens and rich agriculture. Grapes are grown on-site and used to produce small-batch offerings of honest wines.

There are plenty of road-side fruit stands in the area where you can fill a picnic basket with farm-fresh offerings, which vary by the season. Regardless of when you arrive, there will be early or late-harvested fruit and vegetables to tantalize your tastebuds.

Spion Kop is a challenging trail that provides spectacular views of Wood Lake, Okanagan Lake, and Duck Lake. There is a great viewing spot at the halfway marker of the hike; after this, the trail becomes increasingly challenging. The trail is a 6.5-kilometre circuit with 260 meters of elevation gain and is easily accessed from Winfield. Carr’s Landing is home to Gibson House in Kopje Regional Park, the site of a 1912 heritage home and museum on the bank of Okanagan Lake.

The Lake Country Museum in Okanagan Centre displays over 3,000 artifacts that help tell the history and heritage of the local community. This quaint exhibition is unique to the community and early settlers who cultivated the rich agricultural corridor referred to as the “Apple Capital of Canada”.

Places to Stay:

• Located on beachfront shores, Wood Lake RV Park & Marina is a must-visit destination for RVers wanting to enjoy endless water activities.

• Holiday Park Resort offers full-service RV sites and furnished vacation condos.

• UBC's Okanagan Campus offers summer accommodation for individuals and groups. Experience a modern air-conditioned student room, suite, or apartment with private bathrooms

Where to Eat:

• L’isola Bella Bistro – authentic Italian fare that serves hearty offerings of your favourite pasta

• Greek House Restaurant – traditional and contemporary Greek Food that is authentically good and made with super fresh ingredients

• Turtle Bay Pub – located on the marina on Wood Lake this location offers a great selection of pub fare, salads, and burgers. There is a good view of the lake and local wildlife including sunbathing turtles and the occasional Blue Heron.

• 50th Parallel, Arrowleaf, and Grey Monk Wineries

• Please visit the North Okanagan EAT section of the website

Kelowna

2 days

The Okanagan is a crafty destination offering a plethora of small-batch breweries, cideries, distilleries, and markets. Influenced by the diversity of settlers who immigrated here the valley is steeped in history, rich in culture, and a designated Biosphere World Destination situated on the unceded and majestic lands of the Okanagan/Syilx of the Interior Salish.

Most of our featured wineries are small-batch producers whose fees are waived with a purchase. The vibe of the valley is artisan and collaborative with restaurants promoting local farmers, craft beers, and paired wines. Touring the Okanagan is an all-season sensory experience with good food, good drink, and honest adventure.

The Kangaroo Farm is a must-see! Operating seasonally, the kangaroos and wallabies wander the property and love their home. This was originally started as a Kangaroo rescue mission. Be sure to ask them to share the history.

A hike along Mills Creek Trail is our favourite way to spend a couple of hours. This heavily forested trail has lots of shade and the creek creates a naturally cool corridor to explore. The trail leads to three waterfalls, depending on how far you want to go. Just a kilometre from the parking lot, the first waterfall cascades into a lovely pool, with a nearby rock outcrop to sit on (which can be very slippery!) The second waterfall is a little trickier to get to and is actually three smaller waterfalls that careen over a large boulder-like outcrop. There is a small cave to the left of the falls. The trek to the third waterfall is for more experienced hikers, but if you have the time continue to hike upstream to a fourth fall and man-made reservoir at the end of the trail. The trail is not difficult but can be tricky with different routes flooding in the spring.

Knox Mountain Park is Kelowna’s natural park area offering an impressive variety of trails and viewing points. Our favourite hike is to Paul’s Tomb, directly north of Crown Lookout – an easy trail with big views. You can drive to all three lookouts which include the Pioneer Pavilion, Crown Lookout, and Apex Lookout. You’ll catch breathtaking city views from Apex, including the Bennett Bridge to West Kelowna.

Dilworth Mountain Park is a perfect place to enjoy the Kelowna skyline or take in an Okanagan sunset. The Dilworth Mountain Loop is one of the easiest hikes in Kelowna with the biggest reward. (The best hikes in the park are accessed off Chilcotin Drive.) The city views from the mountain top are even more impressive than those at Knox Mountain. Trails are less-traveled here, so stick to the beaten path after sunset.

A short drive to south Kelowna takes you to the trailhead of the Crawford Falls Hike, also known as Canyon Falls. You’ll begin your hike in a residential area but don’t let this fool you into thinking you don’t need appropriate gear; this trail can get quite slippery when wet.  It’s an easy 2.5-kilometre round-trip hike, and your destination is two impressive waterfalls close together. Well worth the time spent!

Known as the Big Show, the Kelowna Boulderfields are also south of the city and claim to provide the best bouldering in the country. Filled with huge, hard rocks piled up over each other and strewn around like giant building blocks, the field is located on the edge of Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park. A unique landmark, geologists believe the boulders resulted from a major rock collapse. The area is open from April to November and accessed off Gillard Forest Service Road (which exits off Chute Lake Road). This area is remote and home to wildlife such as black bears, cougars, and moose.

A trek to south Kelowna wouldn’t be complete without a bike ride or hike on the Myra Canyon Trestles. Following the ancestral trails of the Syilx/Okanagan, these are sacred pathways through the majestically forested landscape and rugged ravines.  A half-day pilgrimage, Myra Canyon is where the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) carves its route through the seasonal pathways and trade routes of the Interior Salish People.

Built at the turn of the last century, the breathtaking canyon features 2 tunnels and 18 trestle bridges that attract cyclists and hikers from around the world. To rent conventional or electric bikes visit Myra Canyon Bike Rentals and Tours.

There are many historic landmarks in Kelowna including the first European settlement – Immaculate Conception Mission (Father Pandosy Mission) built-in 1859.  The current site is home to several significant pioneer buildings including the original chapel, root house, Brothers’ house, and barn. The main floor of the 2-story chapel was used for religious purposes while the upper floor was used as both living quarters and as the first school in the Okanagan teaching Okanagan/Syilx and a small spattering of colonial children. Most of the students taught in the community were Syilx/Okanagan.

A tour through downtown’s Okanagan Heritage Museum unveils an impressive collection of historical Indigenous artifacts and culturally appropriate stories that share the history of the Okanagan/Sylix from pre-contact to modern times. A visit to the nearby Laurel Packinghouse tours visitors through the largest and oldest packinghouse in the province, which is now used for events and markets. Completed in 1918 using bricks made from Knox Mountain clay, it now houses the Okanagan Wine and Orchard Museum – a lovely ode to the early farmers who cultivated these lands.

The nearby Kelowna Visitor Centre is the site of an impressive monument to Syilx/Okanagan Chief, Charlie swkn̓cut. Known as The Chief by the locals, the sculpture depicts a critical historical personality that promoted peace during first contact in the Okanagan. Figures from Syilx culture are represented in the bronze sculpture, the chief's vest, depicts the trading relationship his people had with European newcomers.  His statue watches over the west bank of Okanagan Lake where the reservation lands of the Westbank First Nation lay. The Visitor Centre is a fabulous tourism resource in the area with a small retail offering of local products including their popular “Love for Kelowna” line.

Next to the Visitor Centre is the iconic 100-meter-long pier at the Downtown Kelowna Marina; a public amenity serving as a floating boardwalk – and Canada's largest freshwater marina the attraction offers public mooring, boat rentals, and tour excursions.  Kelowna Cruises provides breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening sailings. Its vessels, known as the Lake Lounge or Boardroom, cross under W.R. Bennet Bridge touring guests past Shelter Bay to the shores of Kalamoir Park, and passing the iconic Hotel Eldorado and Gyro Beach on the way back.

W.R. Bennett Bridge is another iconic landmark and the only way for travellers to cross over Okanagan Lake.  Near the middle of the bridge, the lake is about 60 metres deep with the waters to the north rougher than those to the south of the structure. Locals prefer to paddle the calmer waters – often starting at Dockside at shelter bay or from Kalamoir Park. If you walk or cycle across the bridge, it’s a great vantage point for photos. Love it or hate it, this architectural masterpiece is one of a mere dozen of it’s kind built around the world.

A tour of Downtown Kelowna must include a walk or bike ride along the scenic shoreline of the lake. Hot Sands Beach in City Park beside the bridge is a popular spot for fun in the sun with beach volleyball, tennis, concert stages, a spray park, and a playground. At the entrance to the park (the foot of Bernard Avenue) is where you’ll find the Spirit of the Sail sculpture known by the locals as the Sails.

Carry on your tour past a structure known as The Bear, which overlooks the 4-season skating rink in Stuart Park. “Kelowna” means “grizzly bear” in nsyilxcən.  The sculpture of the grizzly bear is a contemporary art piece that tells a history lesson if you look closely.  Enclosed in the inner workings of the Bear are items that represent periods of Kelowna’s history. At the base of the Bear is a boat, a reference to the role the lake has historically played in the development of the city.

Rhapsody, known as the Dolphin Statue, is a large white fountain found across from Prospera Place near Waterfront Park. This end of the trail is close to the Rotary Marsh Park, where the locals go to birdwatch and find space to stop for a picnic in a central but slightly more relaxed spot on the Trail.

The stroll is about 2 kilometers but be sure to stop into some of the amazing local coffee shops, brewhouses, and restaurants along the way. We've created a fantastic and comprehensive list of our favourites on the EAT and SIP Central Okanagan section of our website and have profiled some amazing local shops here: Consciously Curated Local Shop

BNA Brewing Co., KARAT Chocolate Boutique, Central Kitchen & Bar

While the downtown waterfront stroll is the most popular, you'll want to put aside some time to vagabond the trendy Pandosy District, home to beautiful beaches and a plethora of small, independent shops. Walking the foreshore in this area is hampered by residential homes, but the beaches and designated access points are easily accessed off the roadway – making this more of a stop, park, stay and play destination.

Boyce Gyro Beach, known by the locals as Gyro, is a fabulous spot to spend time between hiking and touring. This beach has a rope swing, volleyball courts, inflatable waterpark, playground, and watersport rentals – all landmarked by the Big Apple-shaped snack venue. It’s an easy walk to some of the cool shops and restaurants on Pandosy or Lakeshore Drive.  A few of our favourite places to stop are Marmalade Cat Café, The Zabb Thai Restaurant, or Soy Asian. If you’re looking for somewhere to fill your cooler and picnic basket, Lakeview Market is the place.

Rotary Beach is close to the boutique Hotel Eldorado, which is surrounded by a quintessential vintage lakefront vibe. This is our favourite boardwalk and patio in the area. There is plenty of access to local EAT and SIP stops, and it serves up some of the valley’s best sunsets. Smack Dab restaurant, also next door, offers a welcoming patio on the lake and is part of Manteo Resort, a fabulous condo accommodation for those booking a longer stay.

Further south you will find Sarsons Beach.  The hidden gem in the area, this beach provides great swimming without the crowds. A 1.7-kilometre walk or quick drive from the beach is the Red Barn Circle, a great offering of local shops located on a traffic circle. There is an organic bakery housed in the big red barn building, which has an impressive selection of grab-and-go lunches and treats.

Visit the PLAY Central Okanagan section of our website for more recreational tips.  We will take you well off the beaten path to boat access and dog-friendly beaches with an abundance of trails to explore.

No trip to Kelowna is complete without a visit to a few of the wineries this side of Okanagan Lake. Summerhill Pyramid Winery is an organic and biodynamic family-owned destination best known for its replica pyramid and award-winning collection of Cipes Sparkling Wines. Every solstice and equinox, and on every full and new moon, the Cipes family gathers with visitors for guided group meditation in the Summerhill Pyramid, after which they partake in Indigenous drumming and dancing around the sacred fire in the Kekuli. This is a free event but tipping the facilitators is strongly encouraged.

St Hubertus & Oak Bay Vineyards is another favourite stop. This family-owned winery uses sustainable and organic farming practices on its 80-acre plot of land. We love meandering the property, with its vintage vibe and old-world elegance. Our favourite wine is their Marechal Foch, a local cult sipper whose jammy characteristics are elevated by hints of vanilla tobacco and spicey infusions of plum pudding.

Carmeli’s Goat Cheese Farm is further down the road and a short drive off the beaten path. This little boutique farm takes pride in crafting small-batch artisanal cheese. For goat cheese lovers, this is a must-stop. Heavenly, Misty, and Blue Velvet are our personal favourites. (You can ask for an icepack for your cooler to keep the cheese cool.) Before you head out, grab a gelato and enjoy the barnyard goats basking in the warmth of the sun.  

If you are looking to experience a local cidery or mead winery, we suggest you head up to South East Kelowna. Our next destinations are a short 5-minute drive apart, but you can experience multiple offerings at either destination.

Nagging Doubt Winery and Soma Craft Cidery, are side-by-side properties in a uniquely rugged hillside location. Producing authentic artisanal wine, Rob Westbury and his team handcraft their wines using natural fermentation and good old foot stomping to crush the grapes. We love their Malbec, and one of our favourite patio wines is their Siegerrebe – a complex combination of flowers, lychee, tangerine, spice, and citrus.

harvested, and crafted organic ciders. Complex and dry, the two offerings, traditional or oak-aged, make your choice simple – a six-pack of each.  There is a wonderful Inn at the farm, which is temporarily closed, so call ahead to check the status of farm tours and bookings.

Nestled amongst the orchards of East Kelowna on a small farm, you will find 110 hives of hardworking honeybees and Meadowvista Honey Wines. Using only the best, locally sourced ingredients to create the taste of “Nature in a Glass”, their Bliss Sparkling Blueberry Haskap is our favourite but we suggest you do a tasting and self-guided tour of the farm to choose your own.

A five-minute drive from Meadowvista is Forbidden Spirits Distillery – a farm to flask operation producing small craft artisanal offerings. Using fruit from the apple orchards and offerings from local farmers, the finest fermentables are expressed in their seasonal spirits. We drink their Adams Apple Brandy and Eve’s Original Gin. All their spirits are distilled from local fruits, honey, and botanicals sourced right here in the Okanagan Valley.

We’ve done our best to capture the essence of the community but there is so much more to see and do! Vernon, Kelowna, and West Kelowna are home to the Vagabonds, so feel free to personalize your itinerary by checking out the EAT, SIP, and PLAY sections of our website. Shop at our recommended Consciously Curated Local Shops!

In the Winter:

• Touring the local wineries

• Myra Canyon Trestles

• Telemark Nordic Club

• Big White Ski Resort

• Ice skating in Stuart Park

• Touring the local craft Ale Trail.

• Winter Farmers Market.

• Visit the Play Central Okanagan section of our website.

Note: Travelling BC Highways in the winter requires the use of appropriate tires, and a four-wheel drive is strongly recommended. Pack a safety kit including warm blankets, snacks and water. Some travellers choose to carry chains through these areas.

Places to Stay:

• Hotel Eldorado Resort - Kelowna

• The Royal Kelowna - Bellstar Hotels & Resorts – Kelowna

• Grand Okanagan Resort – Kelowna

• Hotel Zed – Kelowna

• Kelowna Urban Farm and RV - Kelowna

• Orchard Hill RV - Kelowna

• Bear Creek Provincial Park - West Kelowna

• Reserve your accommodation responsibly at www.bookdifferent.com

Please check our Responsible Travel Boxes curated with local artisan wares and the planet in mind. Our boxes offer essential road trip items with a twist – they are naturally good for you, the planet, and our economic recovery.