A Day on the KVR: Myra Canyon to Naramata Bench

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) in British Columbia, from Myra Canyon to Naramata Bench, offers a picturesque journey. Starting in Kelowna, the trail features amazing views, numerous trestles, and tunnels. Travel on just one section of the KVR or take your bike and ride them all. Stop along the way at vineyards for wine tastings, stay at some authentic lodges, and enjoy some restaurants and other amenities.

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) is the longest rail trail network in British Columbia. This historic, decommissioned railway spans from Hope to Castlegar. Now, much of the railway has been replaced with paved walking paths and well maintained trails. The rail trail is diverse, with some sections parallel with the water, and others high atop the mountains. Whether you’re looking for a casual walk or a challenging trek be sure to check out the KVR in the Thompson Okanagan.

Between Kelowna and Penticton, you can travel along the east side of Okanagan Lake entirely by rail trail. The trail is divided into five sections, each offering diverse topography and unique views. These sections range from easy, flat walks, to uphill winding paths that pass through tunnels and across trestles. This is a year-round destination for all visitors to enjoy - whichever season you visit in you’ll see something new!

 
Two people Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park and Protected Area, Kelowna, Okanagan Valley Region in the Thompson Okanagan Season. In summer time enjoying the sunset on one of the trestle bridge

Image by Destination BC/Kari Medig

 

Starting in Kelowna traveling south you’ll visit the Myra Canyon (24.9 km, 15.4 mi)

Views on views is what you can aspect as you embark on this long but relatively easy section of the trail. Just up a graded forest service road, East of Kelowna, you’ll arrive at a large parking lot high up in the hills. This section of the trail offers 18 man-made trestles, 2 steel bridges and 2 tunnels built into the mountain. So, you do not want to forget your camera!

 

Each section of the trail is:

  • accessible for everyone

  • pet friendly

  • accessible by mountain bike, E-bike, or fat bike

    (due to the nature of trails, and the impacts of unexpected weather events, always be prepared with bike pump or patch kit)

  • a great for walking, biking, and hiking

Section 1: Myra Canyon — Chute Lake (36 km, 22.3 mi)

As the longest section of the trail along this route, it will lead you along 19 wooden trestles and through two tunnels on a flat trail packed down with gravel. This section of the trail was completely restored after the 2003 Kelowna fire, and is in great condition for all-season adventures. Explore the interesting change in scenery as you walk deep into the forest, emerge on cliff edges, look over Okanagan Lake, and end up in the hidden valley where Chute Lake lays.

Chute Lake Lodge, at the end of this section of the rail trail, is the perfect mid trail stop, overnight stay, campsite or weekend getaway. Open all-year round the serene, rustic, with modern amenities, Lodge is perfect for people looking for an authentic experience. Stay in one of their many Cabins, Yurts, or Glamping Tents, with wood-fires, lake front sites, and Canadiana Lodge Food. 

 
Cycling along the Kettle Valley Trail in the Thompson Okanagan on the Naramata to Chute Lake lodge section of the trail

Image by Destination BC/Hubert Kang

 

Section 2: Chute Lake — Naramata (23.6 km, 14.6 mi)

After your visit to Chute Lake, begin your trek into Naramata with guaranteed vineyard views, hidden wine shops, and historical train tunnels. Both Little Tunnel and Adra Tunnel can be found on this stretch of the trail. Adra Tunnel, is a significant and historical must-see tunnel along this route. All 1,600 ft (487 m) of tunnel is an engineering feat from 109 years ago, now restored, and preserved for future generations of visitors to marvel at. The restoration of the tunnel has been an on-going project since 2021, thanks to generous donations, local business support, many community volunteer hours, and collaboration with Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association and the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen. The Adra Tunnel will now further connect and expand the KVR trail network. The tunnel is planned to reopen to the public after pending province approval this summer 2024.

 

Image by adratunnel.com

Okanagan rail trail tunnel called Arda Tunnel near Naramata

Image by adratunnel.com

 

If you’re interested in any of the history around the Adra Tunnel, or you want to learn about the key characters who built the trestles and tunnels with pick axes, 100 year old civil engineering, and accidents along the way, then listen to the free cycling tour. The Steam and Stone: Bike the KVR to the Adra Tunnel Voice Map is a 7.8 km cycling tour that takes you on an audio adventure while you ride, directing you through every turn. 

Section 3: Naramata Bench (20.6 km, 12.8 mi)

The next part of the KVR will bring you down into the vineyards and rolling hills of the Naramata bench. This part of the trail is truly unique, offering bike or walking access to some award-winning wineries, generational old vineyards, and quaint wine shops. This is the perfect place to pull over for a wine tasting or take yourself on a tour of the bench. 

If you’re not sure what to do, take a Discover Naramata With Gps-Guided Audio Tours. Try a walking, or biking tour offered in up to 6 different languages taking you through the history, nature, and hidden gems of the Naramata Bench. 

By now you’ll probably be hungry, stop in Naramata for a snack, lunch or a picnic:

Poplar Grove

The KVR takes you right past Poplar Grove where you can stop in for a wine tasting, or enjoy a meal in their The Restaurant at Poplar Grove. With a food philosophy focusing on “thoughtful food” Poplar Grove’s menu is created with what’s in season, while being mindful of farmers and local ingredients. Poplar Grove is also a Biosphere Commitment Program member and is committed to promoting responsible travel and upholding best practices in sustainability. 

Lunch Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30am – 3:00pm

Dinner Hours: Monday to Sunday: 5:00pm – 9:00pm

425 Middle Bench Rd N, Penticton, BC V2A 8S5 

Two people drinking wine in the wine shop of Poplar Grove on the Naramata Bench in the Thompson Okanagan

Image by Destination BC/Kari Medig

The Bistro At Hillside Winery

If you’re looking for options, The Bistro At Hillside Winery offers a Dinner Service, TakeOut Menu, or Grab & Go Picnic Packs, to meet your needs and fuel your adventure. Their terroir-to-table cuisine offers true Naramata flavours and that pair beautifully with their award-winning Hillside wines.

Open Wednesday - Sunday

Lunch: 11:30am - 2:30pm

Dinner: 5:00pm - 8:30pm

1350B Naramata Rd, Penticton, BC V2A 8T6

The Bench Market

If you need a quaint, one stop shop for a grab and go snack visit The Bench Market. Enjoy sandwiches, baked goods, coffees, and local artisan grocery items. They are “keeping it local and making it fresh!”

Open 7am-4pm daily

368 Vancouver Ave, Penticton, BC V2A 1A5

Section 4: Naramata — Penticton (15.3 km, 9.5 mi)

After you’ve fueled up you can set off on the final section of the trail towards Penticton, the only city located between two lakes in the country. This part of the trail is flat with packed down gravel making it accessible to all. Taking advantage of the bike paths and walking trails, like the KVR is exactly what Penticton was made for! As a Fuel Free City…almost, by visiting Penticton without fuel you can promote responsible and sustainable travel. If you choose just one part of the trail this is the section to choose. With the trail running right through Naramata and into Penticton, stay at the local accommodations and enjoy the amenities along the trail, allowing you to try some restaurants and make a weekend out of it.

Weather you decide to start in Kelowna and travel south or visit Penticton and go north, you’ll experience a new view at every turn. The trail is open all year around and offers fun for the whole family. Be sure to take some pictures for your memories and if you post it, tag @Thompson_Okanagan or #ThompsonOkanagan.

 

Image by Destination BC/Kari Medig

 

Written by Caroline Peterson

A local who went from the lower mainland to the Okanagan. As a student with a passion for tourism, she aims to highlight the Thompson Okanagan experience with a fresh, adventurous perspective.

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A Day on the KVR: Okanagan Rail Trail

Opportunities for Adventures Along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) is a historic railway that spans almost 650 km (400 mi) of connected pathways from Hope to Castlegar. One of my favourite paths is the Cold Stream to Kekuli Bay 20 km (12.5 mi) and Kekuli Bay to Lake Country 22.8 km (14 mi). These trails are flat and well graded making them easily walkable and accessible to mobility aids, or if you are interested in completing it in one day, it is perfect for a bike.

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) is a historic railway that spans almost 650 km (400 mi) of connected pathways from Hope to Castlegar. The pathways of the decommissioned rail are some of the best ways to explore the Thompson Okanagan’s hidden beaches, see wildlife, learn about the region’s history, and try out some of locals’ favourite spots.

This recreational trail has many routes to start your adventure at. One of my favourites is the Cold Stream to Kekuli Bay 20 km (12.5 mi) and Kekuli Bay to Lake Country 22.8 km (14 mi). These trails are flat and well graded making them easily walkable and accessible to mobility aids, or if you are interested in completing it in one day, it is perfect for a bike. These trails also offer great camping sites throughout, an excellent spot, halfway through the trail along Kalamalka Lake, you will find Kekuli Bay Campground.

 
Person biking the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) in the summer or spring time right along Kalamalka Lake in the Thompson Okanagan

Taken by Destination BC/@miraecampbell

 

Bring your furry friends too! All sections of the trail are dog-friendly (on-leash), with some off-leash dog parks found along the way.

Starting in Cold Stream

Starting this trail going north to south you can begin in Coldstream near Kal Beach and ‘Kilometre Zero’. However, ample free parking allows a flexible starting point. The Rail Trail Café & Market opens early in the morning, so grab some breakfast before you start the trek. Head towards Lake Country for activities, stunning views, and an easily achievable round day trip, by bike, along the paved, and gravel path. Perfect for a beach day, a fall or spring bike ride, or a winter nature walk. Garbage bins and water fountains along the way add convenience to your adventure. Enjoy a memorable experience with the whole family on this accessible section of the KVR.

 
 

Stop 1

Coming from Coldstream you’ll hit Pumphouse Beach, a small beach perfect to launch a kayak or canoe. This pebbled beach is just past Kal Beach so, it allows for a more quiet and relaxing spot to stop at.

Stop 2

At kilometer 4, take out your camera and see the most picturesque part of the trail. The trail shoulders Kalamalka Lake, and it’s here where you can read the information signs and learn about what makes Kalamalka so beautiful. Take some pictures so you can look back on this renowned destination.

 
Aerial picture of a inlet on Kalamalka Lake in the Thompson Okanagan showing aqua blue and green lake and tress

Taken by Destination BC

 

Stop 3

Just past kilometer 8 you’ll arrive in Kekuli Bay Provincial Park and beach. This park has a campground, boat loach, and playground. It’s a great place to stop and go for a swim, and take in the views. This marks the end of the Cold Stream to Kekuli Bay, where the trail seamlessly transitions into the Kekuli Bay to Lake Country section of this route.

Stop 4

You’ve probably worked up an appetite by this point! Fuel this adventure by savouring some local flavours and stop by some cafes, food trucks and restaurants. Near Lake Country in Oyama, stop by OKF Grill and the Oyama General Store. Or just off the path, up the road, you'll find a gift shop, a fruit stand, a pizzeria, and, opening in 2024 a cidery.

OKF Grill (Open Spring 2024)

This casual grill is the place to get the best burger and fries in Oyama. It hits the spot after a long day swimming, biking or hiking. Try their fish & chips, or crispy chicken sandwiches, and grab a slushy and an ice cream when you’re done.

Pane Vino Pizzeria (Open April 2024)

For family owned farm to table pizzeria, enjoy some authentic Neapolitan woodfired pizza at Pane Vino Pizzeria. This restaurant allows for a seated meal or a call ahead option to order some pizza to-go. With vegan and gluten free options, be sure to try this wonderful place out.

The Oyama Red Bran (with Folktale Cider coming 2024)

This family owned and family centered place is going to be a great addition to Oyama’s community, coming 2024. With some farm youth activities and ciders for adults to enjoy, this farm is perfect for the family.

 

Taken by @ryanvanveenphotography

 

However, if you packed your own lunch, take advantage of the picnic tables on the beaches along Wood Lake, "Okanagan's warmest & calmest lake". It’s in Oyama where you can decide to go southwest along the highway side of the trail, or southeast along Wood Lake section of the trail. Whichever path you take, the trail loops back around Wood Lake to end up back in Oyama.

Southwest

Much of this side of the lake is paved or has packed gravel along the water's edge. This part of the trail will take you to Wood Lake Beach for a swim, Pelmewash Dog Off-Leash Beach with your four legged friends, and end up in Turtle Bay. Turtle Bay has lots to offer such as dining options, resort and hotel, park, and marina. Turtle Bay Marina Resort and Boat Rentals give you the opportunity to try out some water activities, go for a swim, or rent a boat.

 

Taken by @ryanvanveenphotography

 

Southeast

This direction of the trail will take you through the town of Oyama along a scenic route with history, parks, and pebble beaches. There are two dog parks in this direction, as well as, Pioneer Park, Kaloya Regional Park, Oyama boat launch and Ribbleworth Falls at kilometer 23 marker. These falls are part of the three interpretive sites on Okanagan Rail Trail completed October 2020. This section of the trail will also loopback through Turtle Bay.

Need a pedal bike or E-bike? Check out these rental places:

Sun Country Cycle is located in Vernon and offers a full fleet of Electric Bikes, Cruisers, & Kids Bikes.

Kalavida Surf Shop is located in Coldstream and offers parking and bike rentals for the rail trail.

Oyama E-Bike & Board is located in Oyama and they offer Ebikes and Paddle Board rentals.

Pedego Electric Bikes in Oyama opens March 1, 2024 and offers the best-selling brand of electric bicycles in North America.

Lake Country Cycle in Lake Country offers pedal bikes, eBikes, kids bikes, and Weehoo trailers.

Many of these bike shops offer kids bikes, kid bike trailers, electric bikes, as well as service and repair options for your personal bike!

#KnowBeforeYouGo and stay on the trail except where there are established trailside rest areas. Native trailside vegetation provides beauty and habitat, to preserve the land - respect the trail markers. Respect landowners and agricultural operations along the trail.


Written by Caroline Peterson

A local who went from the lower mainland to the Okanagan. As a student with a passion for tourism, she aims to highlight the Thompson Okanagan experience with a fresh, adventurous perspective.

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Explore the Thompson Okanagan Jenna Labossiere Explore the Thompson Okanagan Jenna Labossiere

Okanagan Family Activity Guide

The Okanagan is known as a destination with many activities for adults to enjoy, like wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the area, but it also is an excellent place for families to enjoy with countless activities and attractions suited for families with young children. Find out more about a few favourite activities for you and your family to enjoy in this guide.

 

The Okanagan is known as a destination with many activities for adults to enjoy, like wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the area, but it also is an excellent place for families to enjoy with countless activities and attractions suited for families with young children. Find out more about a few favourite activities for you and your family to enjoy in this guide. Each activity mentioned below are available year round, occasionally at different capacities depending on the season.

Kids on a sled at SilverStar Mountain Resort

SilverStar Mountain Resort, Vernon - Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson

Outdoor Adventures

The Okanagan is surrounded by hiking and walking trails suitable for people of all ages and abilities. A few to note are Knox Mountain in Kelowna, which offers stunning views of Kelowna at multiple lookout points. Giant’s Head Loop, located in Summerland, is a hike that you can make as long or as short as you want while enjoying the views up and down the Okanagan Lake. Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, in Vernon, offers 14 kilometres of trails leading to viewpoints of the emerald coloured lake and its beaches.

Knox Mountain, Kelowna

Knox Mountain Lookout, Kelowna - Destination BC/Tanya Goehring

If you are hoping to go on a family bike ride, the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) connects the entire Okanagan by trail built on decommissioned train tracks that were, at one time, used daily. There are multiple rail trails from Cold Stream to Penticton. Because the trails have been built on a decommissioned train track, they have little to no slant, making them easy for the whole family to navigate.

Rental bikes are available at different locations along the trails. If you make your way to the Myra Canyon trail in Kelowna, stop at Myra Canyon Adventure Park to test your balance and agility in their obstacle course (Only open in the spring and summer).

Hiking the Kettle Valley Rail Trail

Myra Canyon Trestles on the KVR, Kelowna - Destination BC/Kari Medig

Family biking at Chute Lake Lodge

Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Kelowna - @chutelakelodge

Hoodoo Adventures is a tour company based in Penticton that is an excellent resource for families who are not familiar with the area but want to make the most out of their time outdoors. They offer countless outdoor adventure tours like kayaking on the lake, hiking, mountain biking, and even rock climbing. While in Penticton, walk the waterfront boardwalk and end at the SS Sicamous, the largest surviving sternwheeler in BC.

CC Sicamous in Penticton British Columbia

SS Sicamous, Penticton - @allaroundtheworld_al

The ski hills in the area offer family fun year-round from skiing, snowboarding, tubing, skating, and cross country skiing in the winter to mountain biking, hiking, and disc golf in the summer. Local mountains in the area that you don’t want to miss are SilverStar Mountain Resort, Big White Ski Resort, and Apex Mountain Ski Resort.

Family Ski Day at Big White

Big White Ski Resort, Kelowna - @localsince1908

The cities in the Okanagan have worked hard to ensure that along with having a multitude of well maintained trails and paths, there are many parks and playgrounds, perfect for kids to let off steam and have a lovely family picnic. A few to note are City Park in downtown Kelowna, located right along the beach and next to a splash park, Mission Creek Regional Park, in Kelowna that sits at the entrance of the Mission Creek Greenway, and Bertram Creek Regional Park, which is surrounded by the beach and open fields near the parking lot. In Penticton, Lakawanna Playground is a beautiful park and has many picnic tables to enjoy a takeout meal or afternoon snack. Lakeshore Park and Beach is an accessible park in Vernon that allows for people of all abilities to easily enjoy the paths and amenities.

Discovery

A great way to make lasting family memories is by learning together. Visit the multiple Kelowna Museums located throughout Downtown Kelowna and learn about the history of the Okanagan. Once you have learned about how the Okanagan came to be, visit the Kelowna Art Gallery and Rotary Centre for the Arts to find out what artists and community members are keeping it alive and well.

Kelowna Art Gallery, Family Activity

Kelowna Art Gallery, Kelowna - @kelownaartgallery

In Vernon, you can learn about the history of the area at O’Keefe Ranch, one of British Columbia’s first cattle ranches. Now a heritage site, it offers a glimpse into the past and what Vernon once was. If you are less interested in history and more about science, the Vernon Science Centre offers interactive exhibits that make learning fun for the whole family.

Donkey at O'Keefe Ranch

O’Keefe Ranch, Vernon - @pksnow

The history of Peachland is housed at the Peachland Museum located in an eight-sided Baptist Church that was built in 1910. Here, you will find artifacts, newspaper articles, and documents that depict the history of the town and surrounding area.

If you are looking to learn about one of the key workers that keep the Okanagan’s ecosystem running, Planet Bee Honey Farm offers an educational and delicious experience while learning about the honey bee. Here you will find an indoor bee observatory and an outdoor garden, all while enjoying locally sourced honey products.

Bee Farm in Vernon

Planet Bee Honey Farm, Vernon - Nic Collar

Indoor Activities

Looking for an afternoon indoors where the whole family can let off some steam? There are multiple public pools throughout the Okanagan consisting of Parkinson Recreation Centre and the H2O Fitness + Adventure Centre in Kelowna, the Vernon Aquatic Centre in Vernon, and the Johnson Bentley Memorial Aquatic Centre in West Kelowna.

Indoor playgrounds can also be found in the Okanagan. Some favourite ones to note are Energy Plex and Air House, a trampoline park, in Kelowna, and Busy Beans Indoor Cafe, in Penticton, which is suitable for younger children.

Child Climbing at Hoodoo Adventure Climbing Wall

Hoodoo Adventures Climbing Wall, Penticton - Hoodoo Adventures

Along with playgrounds, indoor climbing has become extremely popular in the area with excellent gyms to show for it. Gneiss Climbing has two locations in Kelowna, the Rock Garden Climbing Centre is located in Vernon, and the climbing wall at Hoodoo Adventures is in Penticton. Each of these gyms is an excellent place for a family to test their strength and bravery of heights while having fun.


These activities and so many more make the Okanagan an excellent place to spend time with your family.

Jenna Labossiere. Author for Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

Written by Jenna Labossiere

Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. She hopes to be able to showcase the Thompson Okanagan’s local businesses and natural attractions in order to encourage others to take the opportunity to enjoy them as much as she does.

 
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