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.
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.
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.
An Inclusive Journey Towards Accessibility
Making a change in attitudes and physical spaces are easy ways to create an inclusive and accessible environment. Featured are a few examples of experiences that can be enjoyed by all. It is our responsibility to create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone.
“Making tourism more accessible & inclusive for all”
Accessibility and inclusion is so much more than what we build into our physical environment. It is a collective positive energy and attitude felt upon entering any environment. It transcends directly from the heart and creates a feeling of belonging and freedom. This powerful and open mindset towards full integration inspires meaningful and authentic connections with one another, enriching the lives of EVERYONE along its path.
Chute Lake Lodge
In an environment that is composed of obstacles, be it in nature or various buildings and facilities, creating a user friendly experience that gives ease to everyone involved, regardless of their accessibility requirements, is essential. Whether it’s individual daily planning, creating itineraries specifically for a family member’s visit, or including your best friend in fun and exciting group experiences, it is normal to feel anxious and uncertain about the barriers that will arise throughout the day. It can be overwhelming for anyone planning a trip when mobility considerations are necessary. This blog aims to relieve the worry and concern to ensure we can all overcome accessible obstacles while exploring the Thompson Okanagan.
Accessibility and Inclusion in the Thompson Okanagan region and throughout British Columbia has become the main focus and topic of conversation in the tourism industry. The BC Tourism Ministry identified that “making tourism more accessible & inclusive for all” is one of their top priorities. Through these efforts, making the planning process less daunting for people to travel individually or together with family and friends, regardless of the accessible features a person requires to participate fully, is a goal we are striving to achieve.
The Thompson Okanagan is known for its breathtaking scenery and abundance of orchards, vineyards and agriculture. With these foundations, there are a plentiful amount of places to choose from when exploring the region.
Row Fourteen / Restaurant at Klippers
Row Fourteen / Restaurant at Klippers in Cawston is a cidery and restaurant that serves dishes such as Dry Aged Cheeseburger, Dry Aged Beef Tartar, and Potato and Arugula Frittata. Not only are their dishes to die for, but their facility is also very open and spacious, which means easy for everyone to move around and enjoy their dining experience. Access from the parking lot to the main entrance is concrete and level, and door access thresholds don’t exist here!
Wharf Park Naramata
The wide and flat walkway of Wharf Park in Naramata borders the Okanagan lake and ends at the Old Train Docks at Mill Bay. The renovated docks were originally the critical access point for the Naramata Fruit Packinghouse. This park is a relaxing and accessible walk/wheel with lots of benches and trees along the way to sit back and enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain vista views that surround it.
Also in Naramata is the over 100-year-old Naramata Inn, a culinary experience you will not want to miss! Here at the Inn, they have found the best of the Okanagan's natural bounty and put it all in one place.
Naramata Inn
If you're considering an overnight stay in the Naramata area, consider the very accessible and inclusive Naramata Centre. There, you will find easy access to the lake, many wineries, and the KVR trestles. If you're ready for a KVR biking adventure, head north on the KVR towards scenic Chute Lake and be sure to include a stop for lunch or dinner at the Chute Lake Lodge. The food is fabulous, and the staff are welcoming and ready to assist in any way they can.
If you seek the more adventurous adaptive experiences, including Mountain Biking, Kayaking and Adventure hiking, then look no further than CRIS Adaptive Adventures and Kootenay Adaptive Sports Association.
They offer rental equipment and bespoke assistance to ensure that everyone can participate in outdoor recreation, regardless of their ability. In a world of possibilities, this statement really does prove to be true when discussing these two incredible organizations!
Chute Lake Lodge / KVR
There is rich history and culture to be discovered when exploring the Thompson Okanagan. Learn about the mining, fur trade and railroads that shaped this area's past at the museums in Midway and Greenwood. Listen to the stories about the first Japanese internment camp in the smallest city in Canada, Greenwood. Both of these museums offer a seamless accessible experience from beginning to end.
Plan an overnight stay for the whole family or with all your friends at Mile Zero of the KVR in the new Bunkhouse, also at the Kettle River Museum (Call ahead to make reservations). The Bunkhouse has six rooms and two shared bathrooms with showers, one which is wheelchair accessible with a wheel-in shower. There is a full kitchen and a large common living area for mingling and relaxing together.
Kettle River Museum / Midway
Art culture is alive and thriving in Grand Forks at Gallery 2, where everyone will enjoy an accessible and inclusive gallery experience. In the same building as the art gallery, you will find the Grand Forks Visitor Centre. Be sure to pick up a guide of the artisan studios and a map to a self-guided tour of the artistic murals throughout the flat, level and very accessible downtown area.
The Thompson Okanagan is a world-class destination for wine and cider tasting with several varieties to taste and experience. Wineries and cideries, like Upside Cidery, have created their spaces to be open and accommodating, and many are becoming more aware that lower tasting bars are essential in creating an inclusive and accessible experience. Offering seated tastings at tables is also becoming very popular. This is a great option for larger groups and people who prefer to be seated while tasting.
Phantom Creek Winery / Osoyoos
There are wineries galore to visit in the South Okanagan region to warrant an extended visit to ensure you have time to see them all. The Coast Oliver Hotel, Watermark Beach Resort, Hester Creek Villas, and Burrowing Owl Guest House all offer accessible accommodations. Calling ahead to confirm that they have the accessible features required is always recommended.
In between wine tastings, plan to visit the Osoyoos Desert Centre. At the interpretive facility, learn about desert ecology and ecosystems in this area, then head out together and enjoy a user-friendly, leisurely and relaxing stroll along the boardwalk that winds through the fragrant sagebrush desert.
Osoyoos Desert Centre
Although physical environments around the world may never be completely accessible, we can create an emotional connection where acceptance, integration and inclusion can ignite the realization and the understanding of “why” our physical spaces need to be accessible. Efforts to change attitudes and create barrier-free physical spaces by individuals and business owners like those listed above, can go a long way in creating an inclusive environment and welcoming atmosphere.
To some degree and at some point in everyone’s life, we will all require an accessible feature to continue our adventures alongside family and friends. Some of these requirements are more apparent than others, but we all have them. Therefore, why not make it our collective responsibility to support and uplift everyone in our communities regardless of their age, ability, gender or culture. Let’s begin with an accessible and inclusive attitude and mindset, allowing that to be the catalyst towards building and creating physical environments that are accessible and inclusive for everyone to enjoy.
Accessibility in a New Light
Click here if you want to learn more about how to make your space accessible to all.
Written by Sonja Gaudet
Sonja Gaudet is a retired 3 X Paralympic Gold Medalist a Canadian Order of Sport Inductee 2020/21. She lives in Vernon with her husband Dan and their two adult children Alysha and Colten. Sonja’s role with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association and Spinal Cord Injury BC aligns with her passion of locating and creating accessible experiences throughout the Okanagan region. Some of her adventures include kayaking, exploring the accessible hiking trails with her dog Lina, and discovering her next favorite glass of red wine, more than likely from somewhere in the South Okanagan or Similkameen.
Written by Jenna Labossiere
Born and raised in Kelowna, Jenna loves being able to be a tourist in her own backyard. As a Brand Ambassador for the Thompson Okanagan region, she hopes to be able to showcase the region’s local businesses and natural attractions in order to encourage others to take the opportunity to enjoy.
Accessible Adventure - Inclusivity on the Rail Trail
Sonja shares her top two ways to experience Okanagan rail trails, including four of her favourite access points and their accessible features - helping you plan ahead, get out there and enjoy the beauty of the Okanagan!
“Rail Trails seem to be the hottest experiences that outdoor enthusiasts are choosing to explore these days. The rail trails throughout the Okanagan Valley are a great way to enjoy the beautiful natural spaces that surround us while exercising and nurturing your overall well-being - physically, mentally and emotionally!”
As a wheelchair user, experiencing the rail trails can depend on your choice or mode of transportation - handcycle, manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, scooter - and any additional mobility attachments or power assist devices that you might have, including willing friends and family. They can assist you along the way if need be! Exploring these trails is also based on your level of adventure and willingness to explore. Whether you are ready to venture out onto the hard-packed gravel-surfaced rail trails, or you prefer to stick to the paved pathways and trails that also exist.
I love to experience the rail trails one of two ways:
Manual Wheelchair
When using my manual wheelchair - I will always attach my GoFreeWheel front attachment, which lifts the front castors - the ones that cause us so much trouble on rough and uneven surfaces! Depending on the level of energy I want to exert on each particular outing - I can also attach my SmartDrive power assist, which, when paired with the FreeWheel, works incredibly well! I can’t stress enough how pairing these two attachments have opened up so many trails and different terrain that I would not typically be able to access as a manual wheelchair user.
Handcycle
Depending on several factors and the purpose of my outing, who I am with, stops along the way, speed and distance of travel, another way I like to explore the rail trails is via my handcycle. It’s nothing fancy, but it is one that can handle uneven off-road terrain. It has larger width tires that are suited for both on and off-road use. I could choose to put mountain bike tires on as well, but for me, I find this creates too much drag, and I’m just out for a leisurely, enjoyable ride.
“Here are some of my favorite rail trail access points and their accessible features so that you can plan ahead and choose the trailhead that works best for you! ”
COLDSTREAM / KICKWILLIE TRAILHEAD
Accessing the rail trail in Coldstream at the Kickwillie access point can be a bit of a challenge but well worth it! There are saskatoon berries galore for picking and be on the lookout for raptors searching for their next meal along the shoreline.
Accessible Features:
Four designated accessible parking stalls in total
Two parking stalls that can accommodate a side lift or ramp
Accessing the trail from the parking area is a bit of a challenge, but there are two options:
A gravel surface ramp with 7.5 degrees of slope
Or you can choose to travel on the paved road which runs parallel to the gravel ramp
KEKULI BAY Trailhead
This is a great trailhead to leave from as you can choose to head north towards Vernon or south towards Oyama. Either direction you choose to travel, the breathtaking views of the lake and the feeling of freedom in nature and open spaces will nurture your soul!
Accessible Features:
One designated accessible parking stall that can accommodate a side lift or ramp
Other parking options available could be in the boat trailer parking lot or an end spot in one of the other parking areas that you will find there
Access from the parking areas to the trailhead: Paved downslope grade of 7-9 degrees depending on where you are parked
Men's and women's outhouse washroom. Although they are not identified as accessible, they are both very accessible (Level entry access, flush toilets / oblong shaped toilet seat, grab bars, roll under the sink with lever controls, mirror at an accessible height, ample floor space to accommodate a wheelchair)
OYAMA BOAT LAUNCH Trailhead
This is one of my favorite rail trail access points to start from! Heading south from the parking area towards Winfield and along the east shores of Wood Lake is another fabulous section of the rail trail. Be sure to stop for a photo opportunity at the waterfall along the way!
Accessible Features:
Two designated accessible parking stalls than can accommodate a side lift or ramp
Hard packed gravel surface parking lot
Wheelchair accessible porta potty
Access onto the rail trail is directly in front of the accessible parking stalls.
Once on the trail, if you choose to head north towards Oyama, you may want to plan and consider any one of these stops along the way to add to your experience:
From here, you can continue north towards Vernon and take in the vistas that surround as you travel along the shores of Kalamalka Lake, “the lake of many colours.”
WINFIELD / WOODSDALE ROAD TRAILHEAD
This is another trailhead access point that you may want to consider exploring. If you choose to travel north towards Oyama, the trail follows the lakeshore of Wood Lake where you will pass through a rich riparian native habitat that supports a variety of plants, birds and other wildlife. Aircraft enthusiasts may choose to travel south towards the Kelowna Airport and watch the takeoffs and landings overhead.
Accessible Features:
Level hard-packed gravel parking lot / no marked parking stalls
Level access onto the rail trail
At this time, there is no accessible washroom
Something I like to do after my roll along this section of the trail is plan ahead and make the short drive to one of the Lake Country wineries for a well-deserved wood fire oven pizza and a glass of world-class Okanagan wine. This is the perfect ending to another fantastic accessible experience here in the beautiful Okanagan Valley!
O’Rourkes Peak Cellars Winery
Blind Tiger Vineyards
The complete map of the Okanagan Rail Trail can be a great reference to help you plan your adventure. Be sure to contact CRIS Adaptive to inquire about their adaptive equipment rental program and other recreational programs they have to offer. Happy Adventuring!
About the Author
Sonja Gaudet is a retired 3 X Paralympic Gold Medalist and most recently a Canadian Order of Sport Inductee 2020/21. She lives in Vernon with her husband Dan and two adult children Alysha and Colten. Sonja has a passion in locating and creating accessible experiences in the Okanagan region. Some of her adventures include kayaking, exploring the accessible hiking trails with her dog Lina, and enjoying Charcuterie with her most recently discovered favorite glass of red wine, more than likely from somewhere in the South Okanagan or Similkameen region.
IG @SonjaGaudet
Accessible Scenic Sips Wine Tour
Sonja takes you along on a Scenic Sips Tour including four of Lake Country’s beautiful wineries, highlighting accessibility features so you can plan ahead and enjoy this scenic Okanagan wine route to the fullest.
There’s nothing quite like wine touring along a scenic route on a sunny Okanagan day with your closest friends, catching up and enjoying the spectacular vistas that each winery has to offer. Read on for some Staycation inspiration featuring four of Lake Country’s beautiful wineries with great accessibility features.
“Accessibility can mean many different things to people with accessible requirements and our aging population. When businesses take simple action in designing space, services, products and experiences that are usable by people of any age, size or ability - inclusion and enjoyment by all becomes possible! ☺”
ARROWLEAF CELLARS
Start your day enjoying your packed Charcuterie picnic on the patio overlooking Okanagan Lake at Arrowleaf Cellars, or purchase your ingredients here. Relax, unwind and sip on any one of their fabulous white wines, the perfect pairing for conversations on a sunny afternoon.
Accessible Features:
Paved level parking lot
Two large accessible parking spaces
Wide main entrance
Great wheelchair accessible washroom
No-step level patio
Open concept tasting room
Friendly and accommodating staff
Level grass picnic area
GRAY MONK ESTATE WINERY
Photo by Sharla Pike
Experience the European ambiance and find some of your favorite gifts in the fabulous wine and gift shop at Gray Monk Estate Winery. Gray Monk's name comes from one of the first grape varieties they produced, Pinot Gris or “Grauer Mönch” in German, hence the translation to Gray Monk.
Accessible Features:
Paved parking lot - slightly sloped
Accessible parking space
Level main entrance
Good wheelchair accessible washroom
Large open tasting room - lower tasting counter available
Restaurant and patio - elevator access
O’ROURKE’S PEAK CELLARS
Next stop is O’Rourkes Peak Cellars. Request to experience your wine tasting at one of the bistro tables out on the vineyard-side patio as you take in another breathtaking view of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding orchards and rolling mountains. This is the perfect place to compare notes on some of the favorite wines you have tasted thus far!
Accessible Features:
Level paved parking lot
Accessible parking stalls
Level main entrance
Good accessible washroom - heavy door
Open concept tasting room
Accessible tables for tasting experience
Accessible restaurant & outdoor patio area.
50TH PARALLEL ESTATE Winery
Photos by Jon Adrian
Be WOWED as you approach 50th Parallel Estate Winery, an architecturally designed winery second to none! Experience your tasting in their large open spaced tasting room at a lowered tasting bar if you choose. This is a great place to wrap up a fabulous day with dinner at their open air restaurant. Consider anyone of their delicious menu options, perhaps a Forno Oven Wood Fire pizza paired with their award winning Pinot Noir and more great conversation to finish off!
Accessible Features:
Level paved parking lot - north entrance
One accessible parking space
Level paved sidewalk from parking stall to main entrance
Wide main level entrance to restaurant and wine tasting room
Tasting room - two lower tasting bars
Great accessible washroom
Restaurant - lower & higher height tables
… Enjoy! ☺
This tour can be done independently or you can book an accessible tour with our friends at Cheers Okanagan.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sonja Gaudet is a retired 3x Paralympic Gold Medalist and World Champion. She lives in Vernon with her golf-obsessed husband Dan and two adult children Alysha and Colten. Sonja has a passion in locating and creating accessible experiences in the Okanagan region. Some of her adventures include kayaking, exploring the accessible hiking trails with her dog Lina, and enjoying Charcuterie with her most recently discovered favorite glass of red wine, more than likely from somewhere in the South Okanagan or Similkameen region!
IG @sonjagaudet