There are beautiful hikes scattered throughout the Thompson Okanagan that take you to new heights, showcase the region's beauty, and connect you with nature. Now that the weather is warming up, it is the perfect time to strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails while searching for one of the most magnificent natural wonders available - the waterfall.

1. Hardy Falls

Hardy Falls Provincial Park awaits you just south of Peachland after a quick turn off Highway 97 onto Hardy Road. The trailhead is seconds away from the parking lot as you descend onto the trail that takes you over bridges and past Peachland Creek. The hike is short and sweet, a perfect activity for all levels, and stroller and wheelchair friendly. During the fall, the bridges offer a great vantage point to check out the spawning salmon. But the real view payoff comes at the end of the trail once you reach Hardy Falls. The viewing platform has visitor information about the surrounding area and the wildlife within the creek. Hardy Falls can be accessed in less than a km from the parking lot making it the most beginner-friendly opportunity to see a waterfall on this list.

2. Fintry Falls

Located in West Kelowna, Fintry Falls can be found in Fintry Provincial Park. Although the hike to Fintry Falls is another short hike, access to the waterfall is made up entirely of stairs, making this an easier but not an accessible hike. After traversing the ~400 stairs visitors can take in the beauty of Fintry Falls from two observation points. This area is also excellent for bird watching and connects to Fintry Park where visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. Fintry Falls is a great option for families as the well maintained stairs provide a direct and safe path and view of the falls.

3. Mill Creek Regional Park

Mill Creek Regional Park is located east of the Kelowna Airport in the Ellison area. This is an out and back trail that is relatively flat and well maintained that follows Mill Creek to the falls. This is a family and pet friendly hike that is surrounded by trees and the yellow blooms of the Arrowleaf Balsamroot in the early spring. The real treat comes at the end of the hike, where the rushing water from the creek cascades over the rocks, a perfect serene spot for a snack and stretch break.

4. Wells Gray Provincial Park 

Wells Gray Provincial Park is home to 41 named waterfalls, the perfect destination for any explorer looking to experience the beauty of the Canadian wilderness. Wells Gray Park is located in the Thompson Nicola region and the main waterfalls are accessed from Clearwater, BC. Although the park is full of activities from slow adventures like walking through the wildflower meadows, or more extreme adventures like whitewater rafting, we suggest a hike around the park to discover the iconic waterfalls of Wells Gray Provincial Park.

About the author

Nadia is a proud former Thompson Okanagan tourist who now lives in beautiful Kelowna, BC. She hopes to tell the stories of the region’s beauty and hidden treasures while rediscovering the destination she spent enjoying on family vacations.