hanajournalsKelowna is an up and coming bustling city in the South of British Columbia in Canada. It’s surrounded by provincial parks, vineyards, mountains, orchards, pine forests and the most stunning Okanagan Valley. A 4-hour drive from downtown Vancouver, Kelowna’s unique landscape is like no other place.
1. Dilworth Mountain Park
A lovely park to take a stroll at with an incredible view of Kelowna. Getting to the lookout takes about a 10 minute walk from the parking lot. They have benches in the area, which makes it a great place to catch the Sunset.
2. Cedar Creek Park
A great vantage point to get more amazing views of the Okanagan Lake. The park also has a beach for dogs to run and play off-leash, swim or drink from the lake. It’s also an amazing place to catch the Sunset.
3. Waterfront Boardwalk
The waterfront Boardwalk in downtown Kelowna is an easy 2km long walk with spectacular views of Okanagan Lake with the mountainous backdrop. However, it’s only open on the weekends.
4. Knox Mountain Park
Another great place to catch the sunset, Knox Mountain Park is the biggest Natural Park in Kelowna. It has several trails, the best one being the Apex Trail. More information can be found here.
5. Horseback Riding-Broken Rail Ranch Trail Rides
If you’ve never done Horseback riding before, this is definitely a good opportunity to try it out. The Broken Rail Ranch offers different routes and experience levels. More information on rides and rates can be found on their website here.
6. Kangaroo Creek Farm
One for the kids, and a family friendly activity. The farm has more than just Kangaroos, which is more reason to visit. You can find more information on their website here.
7. Pincushion Mountain
Although not exactly in Kelowna, Pincushion Mountain trail in Peachland is only 20 minutes drive away from Kelowna. The views are way too spectacular to be missed. Not an easy hike, but well worth the effort. Full details on the hike can be found here.
Distance: 3.4 km
Elevation gain: 245m
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 2-2.5 hrs return
8. Crawford Falls
A steep but short hike down some stairs below the small valley lies Crawford Falls. It’s not difficult but you do need to pay attention so you don’t slip and fall. Not advised for children or elderly due to the steps.
9. Rose Valley Regional Park (Yellowbell)
Rose Valley Regional Park has many different trails. Among them, we found the Yellowbell the easiest one that came with an amazing view. Which is why it’s the one we’ve recommended.
Full details on the Yellowbell trail can be found here. More information on the other trails in this park can be found here.
Distance: 1.6 km
Elevation gain: 90m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1.5 hrs return
10. Kalamalka Lakeview Drive Lookout
The scenic drive from Kelowna to Vernon is one that we look forward to every time we’re in the area. This lookout has a stunning viewpoint of Kalamalka Lake as you drive into Vernon.
11. Middleton Mountain
Distance: 1.6 km
Elevation gain: 89m
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 30 mins return
An easy 15-minute hike up a fairly steep sloped trail. Definitely well worth the 360 degree views at the top. The trailhead may be tough to spot, but the best place to start from would be at 851 Mt Ida Dr.
12. Rattlesnake Point
The trail is very easy and has alternative routes. It does have a steep incline back up and can be very muddy and slippery in areas. Proper walking shoes/boots recommended. Full details on the trail can be found here.
And that’s our top 12 things to do in Kelowna, although we added Vernon in as well. Check out more of our Canada posts where we did our 14 day road trip guide from Vancouver to Banff, and our top 10 places to visit in Vancouver.
