Discover the Best Hiking Trails in Kelowna
Kelowna, British Columbia's third-largest city, is a hiker's paradise with a variety of trails that cater to all levels of fitness. Whether you're looking for a leisurely city walk or an adventurous mountain hike, Kelowna's diverse landscapes offer something for everyone.
Within the city limits, you'll find accessible trails that provide both exercise and tranquility. The area boasts marine, forest, and grassland environments that attract outdoor enthusiasts. If you're eager to hit the trails right after landing, you can rent a car at the Kelowna airport.
1. Apex Trail in Knox Mountain Park
Just two kilometers from downtown, Knox Mountain Park features trails for all abilities. The Apex Trail leads to the Upper Apex Lookout, offering a four-kilometer return hike with a 262-meter elevation gain. Alternatively, the Lower Crown Lookout provides a shorter option with equally stunning views.
2. Paul's Tomb Trail
Paul's Tomb Trail is a favorite among locals, offering an easy 2.7-kilometer one-way hike with minimal elevation gain. The trail ends at a pebble beach, perfect for a picnic or a swim in Okanagan Lake.
3. Knox Mountain Loop
For a more challenging experience, the Knox Mountain Loop combines three trails into a nearly seven-kilometer circuit with a 262-meter ascent, panoramic views, and a lakeside return.
4. Canyon Rim Trail
In Bear Creek Provincial Park, the Canyon Rim Trail is a 2.5-kilometer loop with a 90-meter elevation gain. It offers views of the canyon, waterfalls, and diverse microclimates.
5. Myra Canyon Trail
The historic Myra Canyon Trail follows the old Kettle Valley Railway. This flat, 24-kilometer round-trip trail features tunnels and trestle bridges with breathtaking canyon views.
6. Kelowna Waterfront Trail
The Kelowna Waterfront Trail is a 5.3-kilometer round-trip path that's popular for walking, cycling, and enjoying the city's beaches and parks.
7. Mission Creek Greenway
The Mission Creek Greenway spans 16.5 kilometers of level trails, offering educational signage and access to the Environmental Education Centre for the Okanagan.
8. Scenic Canyon Regional Park
Scenic Canyon Regional Park features a five-kilometer return hike with a 158-meter elevation gain, showcasing geological formations and historic rock ovens.
9. Gellatly Bay Trail
This four-kilometer return trail along Gellatly Bay is ideal for a leisurely walk or a swim, with amenities like restrooms and an aquatic park along the way.
10. Black Mountain Regional Park
Black Mountain Regional Park offers a collection of short trails with views of Kelowna and Okanagan Lake, starting from the end of Swainson Road.
11. Crawford Falls Trail
The Crawford Falls Trail is a one-kilometer hike leading to two waterfalls within Falls Canyon Park, located less than 12 kilometers from downtown Kelowna.
12. Mount Boucherie Trail
Mount Boucherie Regional Park features a 5.6-kilometer round-trip trail with a 300-meter elevation gain, providing stunning views from the former volcano's summit.
13. Rose Valley Lake Loop
The Rose Valley Lake Loop is a moderate hike with a 477-meter elevation gain, encircling the reservoir and offering views of the surrounding landscape.
Before embarking on your Kelowna hiking adventure, consider picking up a Kelowna Outdoor Trails map from the visitor center to guide you on your journey.
