On foot or by bike, in winter and summer, the vast and diverse North Okanagan trail system connects you to land, culture, and one another. These are homelands of the Splatsin/Secwepemc and Syilx/Okanagan people, caretakers of the lands and waters since time immemorial. Now home to the Trails Capital of BC, Greater Vernon’s pathways are alive with wildlife, varied terrain, a stoked community, and those radiant Okanagan sunsets. Give a nod to the land stewards and trail builders who’ve cared for the land and created this incredible network by treading lightly and gratefully as you take a day to feed the soul.
Vernon: Trails Live Here
Welcome to Greater Vernon, the Trails Capital of BC. Here, you’re always just footsteps from yet another adventure— from the BX Creek waterfall at the north, to the jagged rocks, Ponderosa Pines and lake views of Kalamalka Park, Ellison Provincial Park and Predator Ridge to the south. In between, the impressive Grey Canal Trail follows the 50-km (30-mile) irrigation network built in the early 1900s to sustain the region’s orchards, while the Okanagan Rail Trail follows the old railway for a serene lakeside ride, stroll or paddle (yes, paddling counts in the Trails Capital!).
Perched high above the Monashees and just 22 km (13 miles) away from Vernon, SilverStar Mountain Resort is a breathtaking extension of the Trails Capital of BC. In the winter, discover this magical mountain along 105 km (65 miles) of top-notch Nordic trails, Canada’s largest daily groomed cross-country network. In the summer, take the gondola or hike to the top to trek through woods and alpine meadows. Or feel the trails rise, sink and twist on a whole other level at SilverStar Bike Park, featuring 69 km (43 miles) of downhill runs, including the fun and flowy Jedi Mind Trick, and Beowulf, a 35 km (22 miles) XC EPIC trail through ridgelines, cedar rainforests, and meadows.
This is where we go to get out into the wild. For unforgettable views, plentiful bird life and a path less travelled, you can’t beat Camel’s Hump and Coopers Trail. Go even deeper into the woods in Monashee Provincial Park near Cherryville, where the lush and rolling 6 km (4 mile) Spectrum Lake trail closes with lakeshore pads for backcountry camping. For a leisurely creekside stroll in town, take the Salmon Trail and explore the easternmost spawning grounds of Pacific Coho and Chinook Salmon.
In Enderby and throughout the Shuswap Trail System, you’re always close to quiet moments in nature and stunning views. For a big summit grind/day out on the trails, climb Tplaqín, the Enderby Cliff Park, to reach spectacular vistas of farm fields and the Shuswap River. Get up close to the river’s turtles and beavers on the Jim Watt Heritage River Walk via downtown Enderby, or enjoy the new multi-use Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail, suitable for pedestrians, off-road bicycle use, as well as universal mobility access. Hikers and horseback riders love to wander high above the alpine at Mara Mountain, while snowmobilers revel in fresh tracks along Hunters Range, before diving back into endless snow-filled adventures.
Wilderness trails at the tip of the North Okanagan offer unexpected scenics and serenity. With easy, shady loops alongside Douglas Fir surrounded by farmlands, Thomas Hayes Ecological Park is perfect for kids and those with mobility needs. Mount Rose Swanson takes you higher—through lush forest toward a ridge where you’re rewarded with rare views of the entire valley and all three of its lakes. This is Syilx/Okanagan territory with trails maintained by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Trails Society.
With a little respect and prep, together we can protect these beloved trails and return home safely at the end of the day. BC AdventureSmart’s Three T’s—Trip Planning, Training and Taking the Essentials—are a great guide. Remember to pack out whatever you pack in, and always admire wildlife from afar.
Behind every great trail network is an organization maintaining and protecting these special pathways. Thanks to the stewardship and hard work of groups like the North Okanagan Cycling Society, Armstrong Spallumcheen Trails Society, Ribbons of Green, Shuswap Trail Alliance, and Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail Society these trails can be enjoyed by all for years to come. Interested in giving back and supporting their efforts? Learn more about getting involved or make a donation.
Nourish your body and soul in the North Okanagan. Spoil yourself with a spa treatment, then refuel with a farm-to-fork meal and grain-to-glass beverage.
Visit valley landmarks, including farms, orchards, cheesemongers and historic ranches. And don’t miss the Okanagan Rail Trail, a decommissioned rail line that’s now a recreational pathway.
Celebrate the North Okanagan all year with community events. Join in the fun at carnivals and rodeos, farmers’ markets, festivals, and sporting competitions.
