Nestled between three natural lakes, and surrounded by mountains, parks, orchards and farmland in the North Okanagan, Vernon is crisscrossed with over 300 kilometres of trails, earning it the title ‘Trails Capital of BC.’ These pathways range from single-track hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing trails, to wide, flat multi-use routes for cyclists or families, and they beckon outdoor enthusiasts all year. After spending time outdoors, this city with a small-town vibe welcomes you for a meal at a farm-to-table restaurant, a cold drink inside a craft brewery or cider house, or a latte from a local roaster.
Vernon has long been a summer playground, with visitors flocking to its beaches, golf courses, and mountain biking trails for fun in the sun. A new paddle trail on Kalamalka Lake adds heft to its Trails Capital title, as do the kilometres of scenic paths down to waterfalls, into pine forests, and up to shimmering lake viewpoints — it’s no wonder the city has a reputation as one of BC’s best hiking destinations. More and more, travellers come to Vernon when the snow flies to snowshoe or fat bike those same trails, or to ski at nearby Sovereign Lake Nordic Club or SilverStar Mountain Resort.
Vernon is part of the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Syilx People of the Okanagan Nation, and has been for millennia. Learn about syilx culture, their connection to the land, and the food and medicinal uses of local plants, on a tour through the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden. Or experience the annual Komasket Powwow, a celebration of traditional dance, music, food, arts and crafts, and cultural workshops. The rolling cattle ranches and bountiful orchards at this end of the Okanagan Valley are what drew settlers west, turning Vernon into an economic hub. That farming heritage is on display at Historic O’Keefe Ranch, an 1867 cattle ranch with preserved buildings, and at Davison Orchards Country Village, which still grows 17 different kinds of apples.
From cozy motels and quaint B&Bs, to luxurious spa resorts and lakeside vacation homes, Vernon’s range of lodgings suits every budget and style of traveller. Some accommodations, like Sparkling Hill Resort & KurSpa and Predator Ridge Resort, are steps from trails and tee offs, while other hotels are located a short walk from Vernon’s many parks, restaurants and boutiques. The city also makes a good adventure hub for day trips to the nearby trails at Sovereign Lake and Silver Star. Take advantage of seasonal vacation deals.
Slow down and veer off the beaten path in five welcoming communities connected by lakes, forests, mountains, and hundreds of kilometres of trails. Armstrong, Enderby, Lumby, Silver Star and Vernon welcome adventurers in all seasons to play, rest and refuel. Find your happy place in the great outdoors, at a community event, or with family and friends at a farm-to-table restaurant.
Vernon
Greater Vernon’s trail network entices paddlers, skiers, runners, hikers, and cyclists to go the distance in the Trails Capital of BC. Pair your adventures with events, great food, and fun attractions in all seasons.
This colourful mid-mountain village is famous for the light Okanagan powder that settles on its downhill ski slopes in winter, but Silver Star welcomes adventurers in all seasons.
