Mission Creek Walkway in Kelowna

Sailing on Lake Okanagan

Kelowna is situated in the Okanagan Valley of BC, 6 hours north of Spokane, Washington and 4 hours northeast of Vancouver.  The city butts up against beautiful Okanagan Lake.  It’s a vibrant vacation city with lots to do during the summer.  Whether you are looking for beach time or tasting wines at the many cottage wineries, there is lots to take in.

Walking and Hiking

1.Mission Creek Walkway

One of the easiest access points for Mission Creek walkway is on Springfirld road just north of Orchard Park Mall.  The walkway meanders for a number of kilometers beside the creek.  It is a great place to walk dogs (on leash, of course)  or just to get some exercise while enjoying the fresh air.

2.Kelowna’s Boardwalk

One of the nicest walks along the shores of Okanagan Lake is Kelowna’s Boardwalk.  It starts at the bridge, goes through Kelowna City Park, then past the Yacht Club and the Grand Hotel and Casino.  On summer weekends there is often music in the park.  Continue on past the boat locks and into the beautiful marshland area.  There are places to sit and just enjoy the view along the way.

3.Bear Creek Park

Bear Creek Park is located across the lake from Kelowna.  It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown but worth the journey.  You can walk up the trails above the park and get into some stunning scenery away from the bustle of the city. 

4. Kettle Valley Railway Trail

The Myra Canyon section of the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) Trail is located just minutes from town.  It’s a great way to spend the day and don’t forget to take a picnic lunch with you.  The trail is also open to bikers and has a total of 455 kms running from Kelowna to Grand Forks.

5.Knox Mountain Regional Park

For those tourists who enjoy mountain biking, Knox Mountain has some challenging hills.  It is definitely a medium to advanced level climb.  The mountain is also crisscrossed with good hiking trails.  Access is restricted one weekend in May for the annual Knox Mountain Hill Climb.

Other Activities

6. Lakeshore Wineries

There are many wineries located throughout Kelowna but one of the most populous is Lakeshore Rd., just east of Kelowna.  Follow the road out along the lake for a few kilometers and stay to the right at the fork.  Take time for lunch and sightseeing as well.

7.Kelowna City Park

The park is a great place to take the kids.  There is a large water play area situated in the center of the park, with lots of open space for picnicking.  There is also a great beach area and swimming zones are marked.  A short distance away you can rent ski-boats but you must have a valid boater’s certificate.

8. Scandia Golf and Games

Scandia is a great place to take the kids.  It has a mini golf course and a number of other things to do including a batting cage.  Big kids enjoy it too!  

9. Golfing

Kelowna has a number of top-notch golf courses that are open to the public.  Whether you want to play just 9 or go out for 18 holes, there are a variety of courses offering different skill levels.