In the four-season playground of Vernon, adventure awaits you at every turn.
Known for being a destination for world-class outdoor activities in B.C., this city in the North Okanagan region is home to world-class trail systems within beautiful natural surroundings, thus offering some of the best hiking and biking experiences in all of Canada.
The best way to see Greater Vernon is by foot. Plus, there are plenty of gentle walking trails and easy hikes in the area that are suitable for every type of skill level. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll in the city or see the natural beauty of the area from the surrounding hills, there truly is a trail or two, or many, for everyone.
Ride past the grasslands, lakes, hills, and mountains that make Vernon a favourite destination for biking enthusiasts. Take it easy with the family on a cycle tour or feel the adrenaline rush as you tear through forested mountain sides on your cross-country mountain bike.
Here are some of Greater Vernon’s top trails to hike and bike along.
Photo: Tourism Vernon.
This 50 km wilderness trail system follows the route of the historical Grey Canal irrigation channel. Choose one of the four routes and pass by orchards, vineyards, grasslands, and a stunning panoramic view of the valley.
It's well worth the effort to walk, wheel, push, or pull your way along this flat and wide paved lookout trail. As your reward, you will be perched above the amazing violet, blue, and green colours of Kalamalka Lake, sweeping grasslands, and gorgeous beaches.
Predator Ridge offers over 35 kilometres of all-season, multi-use trails, complete with picnic areas, picturesque vistas overlooking Okanagan Lake and Terrace Mountain, and many species of plants and wildlife.
Family-friendly SilverStar Mountain Resort has over 44 bike trails, from SilverStar’s signature trail World Cup to Cruise Paradise, the resort’s longest run. With 400 dirt jumps and 900 berms along 60 km of downhill and 70 km of cross-country trails, there's plenty of gravity-fuelled adventure for hardcore riders and beginners at this bike park.
BX RANCH TRAIL
The 2.25 kilometre trail winds around the former BX Ranch farmlands and offers remarkable views of the Foothills, Silver Star Mountain, Vernon Hill, and Black Rock. The trail passes Mutrie Dog Park and ends at the BX Ranch Dog Park, so feel free to bring Rover with you!
SWAN LAKE NATURE RESERVE TRAIL
For those who love a nature hike, the tranquil Swan Lake and the surrounding wetlands provide some of the best bird watching opportunities in B.C. — including ducks, waterfowl, marsh birds, American White Pelicans, Trumpeter Swans, and more.
Photo: Tourism Vernon.
Though it's not technically a mountain, you’re bound to enjoy this short hike. Find yourself walking beside an ancient lava flow wall above downtown Vernon with panoramic views of Middleton Mountain, Silver Star, and Swan Lake.
An oasis in the middle of the city, this pleasant park trail is perfect for chilling out or just stretching your legs in the heart of town. Polson Park offers a variety of amenities, including lawn bowling, picnic areas, and a floral clock.
Paved over gentle hills, Longacre’s multi-purpose trail is a relaxing trek with many benches to rest, featuring beautiful views of the grasslands, mountains, and Okanagan Lake.
Photo: Tourism Vernon.
The downhill circuit at Ellison offers a breathtaking view of Okanagan Lake and a ride that will heighten your appreciation of nature. In the summer months, you can finish off your ride with a swim in Okanagan Lake.
For a true Okanagan exploration excursion, this spectacular lakefront route alongside Kalamalka Lake allows you to explore nearly 50 km of level, discontinued railway track that connects communities between Vernon and Kelowna.
The flat gravel pathway makes the trail suitable for walkers, hikers, bikers, and even strollers to access. And with over 20 parks and over 20 recreational and cultural points of interests within a five minute walk of the trail, there’s no shortage of adventures to embark on.
For more great hiking and biking trails in Greater Vernon, visit tourismvernon.com.
