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.
Exploring the North Thompson: A Road Trip Along Highway 5
The North Thompson Valley is easily reached via Highway 5, known as the Yellowhead Highway, connecting Kamloops to Valemount. This region is surrounded by mountains, with cabins and camping retreats, fishing destinations and hiking to be enjoyed for days on end. Don't miss the chance to embark on a memorable road trip along Highway 5 this spring or summer, discovering the North Thompson region.
North Thompson Valley
The North Thompson Valley is easily reached via Highway 5, known as the Yellowhead Highway, connecting Kamloops to Valemount. This region is surrounded by beautiful mountains, boundless landscapes, cabins and camping retreats, fishing destinations and hiking adventures to be enjoyed for days on end. Don't miss the chance to embark on a memorable road trip along Highway 5, discovering the remarkable offerings of the North Thompson region.
Barriere
As you embark on your journey along the highway, your first destination will be the tranquil hamlet of Barriere, located within a 45 minute drive from the southern entrance of the North Thompson Valley. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Barriere as you discover its campgrounds, trails, and surrounding lakes. Venture on hikes that unveil breathtaking vistas and witness the captivating landscape of rounded mountaintops on either side of the valley. In Barriere, wildlife thrives, and the local community takes great pride in its surroundings.
Photo by Thompson Okanagan/Allen Jones
Accommodations: Campgrounds and Cabins
For your first stop, head to the North Barriere Lake Recreation Site. This site provides a range of year-round recreational activities. During the warm summer months, visitors flock here for the sandy beach and water activities offered by the lake. Fishing enthusiasts will also find the lake to be a popular spot. The North Barriere rec site is ideal for an overnight or multi-night stay along Highway 5, with all sites available on a first-come, first-served basis – no reservations required. Do note that the site is situated along Barriere Lake Forest Service Road, at the 16km mark, so a vehicle capable of traversing forest service roads is necessary.
Open May 19, 2023 to Sep 20, 2023
Fee $15.00 /night
If you're seeking alternatives to camping at the recreation site, look no further than North Barriere Lake Resort. Here, you can choose from seven fully furnished cabins, full hook-up RV sites, or spacious spots to pitch your tent. The resort provides a variety of camping options to suit your preferences. Enjoy the convenience of amenities such as a boat launch, designated campfire areas with firewood, a convenience store, showers, and washrooms. Additionally, indulge in outdoor activities including hiking, walking trails, swimming, boating, and fishing while immersing yourself in the beauty of the Barriere.
8820 North Barriere Lake Road, Barriere BC
Photo by Thompson Okanagan/Allen Jones
Activities: What to do while you’re there
While you’re in the District of Barriere, take the day to explore the town by going Geocaching. There are several geocaches located in and around the town of Barriere, as well as along hiking and bike trails in the area – making these easy caches for beginners. You can also take a step further and try Geocaching out in the backcountry accessible by foot, mountain bike or horseback. Try Geocaching around Barriere and the rest of your Highway 5 destinations.
Photo by Allen Jones
Not a Geocacher? Try your hand at fishing. Barriere and the Lower North Thompson has the largest fishing area in the North Thompson Valley and is home of the world-famous fishing highway. No matter the season, fishing is abundant up and down Highway 5. From newbies to expert fishers, Barriere has fishing all around the town. Stop at one of the many fishing lodges near Barriere like Caverhill Fly Fishing Lodge, Johnson Lake Resort, North Barriere Lake Resort and more.
Food: Pullover and grab a bite to eat
Tired of camping food already? Stop at Sam's Pizza & Rib House, with rotating lunch specials ranging from lobster, calamari and prawns to Double Smash Cheeseburger with Bacon Jam and of course pizza. Sam’s Pizza is bound to fuel your road and camping trips along Highway 5. On the left as soon as you enter Barriere, Sam’s Pizza & Rob House is excited to welcome you and offer a taste of their town.
Open 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and noon to 9:00 p.m. on weekends, closed Monday Tuesday.
4307 Yellowhead Hwy, Barrière, BC V0E 1E0
Photo by Kelly Funk Barriere
Indulge in a refreshing treat at Murray's Ice Cream shop to beat the summer heat. Savour cold drinks, delicious ice cream, mini donuts, milkshakes, and more. With a wide variety of top-quality ice cream options, Murray's Ice Cream is a great stop along Highway 5.
Open Noon to 8:00 p.m. every day
Murray's Ice Cream, Barrière, BC V0E 1E0
Clearwater and Wells Gray Provincial Park
The next stop on Highway 5 is the District of Clearwater, “The Gateway to Wells Gray Park”. Clearwater and Wells Gray is a year-round destination for adventure seekers, camping buffs, hikers, and trail finders. Clearwater is the perfect destination for travelers seeking to explore the town and venture into Wells Gray Provincial Park. With a range of accommodations and activities, Clearwater offers everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. Whether you're looking for a cozy place to rest or exciting adventures to embark on, Clearwater has it all.
Photo by Destination BC/Andrew Strain
Accommodations: Campgrounds and cabins
Pitch your tent or bring your RVs to Birch Island Campground, situated just West along Highway 5, in Clearwater. The campground is nestled among the trees and mountains of the Wells Gray corridor and offers fully serviced sites as well as un-serviced to provide whichever camping experience you enjoy. Don’t forget to bring your dog as well!
88 Walker Rd, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N0
In case you find yourself without a tent, consider spending a night at one of the four cozy Across the Creek Cabins. Nestled on 10 acres of private land, conveniently situated along the road to Wells Gray’s Park, these cabins offer a peaceful retreat. Originally purchased by Frank and Joan Smith in the 1970s, their dream of establishing these cabins gradually took shape as their family grew. Finally, in 2008, their vision became a reality, and since then, they have continued to welcome guests to their property, maintaining a family-run business.
Open year-round
5136 Clearwater Valley Rd, Clearwater, BC, V0E 1N1
Activities: What to do while you’re there
Traveling along Highway 5 will lead you directly to Clearwater and the stunning Wells Gray Provincial Park. Clearwater seamlessly merges with the park's wilderness, offering an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Stop by the Wells Gray Vsitor Centre before Embarking on invigorating hikes to reach viewpoints atop volcanoes that overlook breathtaking waterfalls, or explore the park's waterways by canoe, kayak, boat, or even on horseback. With countless activities available, Wells Gray provides endless opportunities for adventure and unforgettable experiences. The activities in this area can be enjoyed either through self-guided exploration or a tour.
Photo by Destination BC/Andrew Strain
Food: Pullover and grab a bite to eat
When hunger strikes, make sure to make a pit stop at Clearwater's Gateway Grill. Located right off Highway 5, it's hard to miss. Indulge in a variety of options, including burgers, salads, steaks, and more. With a kid-friendly menu and a wide selection to choose from, Gateway Grill is the perfect spot to relax, refuel, and take a break from your drive while enjoying a delicious meal.
Open 4pm - 9pm every day
368 Eden Rd. Clearwater, BC
Another must-stop while in Clearwater is Hop n Hog! As BC’s highest-rated smokehouse, Hop n Hog is a great stop for smoked meat fans - Specializing in low and slow alder and birch smoked beef and pork. Don’t forget to grab a locally crafted ale, lager, or cider while you’re there.
Open May to October 5:00 p.m. to late.
424 Clearwater Valley Rd, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N1
Blue River
“The Jewel of Yellowhead,” Blue River awaits for you as your next stop on the trip. As you enter the Upper North Thompson Valley, you will experience what the northern backcountry has to offer. Blue River is a vast rainforest surrounded by glacier fed blue rivers. Spotting wildlife is almost granted, and you’ll get your fill of fresh air as you experience the all-encompassing nature of Blue River.
Photo by Blue River
Accommodations: Campgrounds and cabins
The Blue River Campground is a quintessential Canadian camping experience where they offer campsites, tents, cabins and rentals. Take a shower and freshen up at the free hot showers and flush toilets, and get some laundry done before your next stop. Enjoy the largest motor-free lake in North America, Murtle Lake with over a 100 km (63 mi) of shoreline. Here, you can go from your campsite to the lake, or borrow a bike and head into town.
Open May to October
991 Blue River West Frontage Rd, Blue River, BC V0E 1J0
Photo by Kelly Funk
Activities: What to do while you’re there
Hiking is a must-do while in Blue River. Check out this trail map to see the numerous hikes you can tackle right off Highway 5.
Hiking is an activity that allows you to connect with nature while challenging yourself physically and mentally. Whether you prefer gentle nature trails or challenging mountain summits, there is a hiking experience for everyone here. Some notable ones are The Green Mile, Chef’s Mile, Wavy Ridge Trail, Blue River Lookout and Little Blue River Loop. Bring your hiking shoes, GPS, water, and bug spray to be well prepared for those moderate to hard hikes!
Photo by Blue River
While hiking is fun, it can be a challenge, and some may want to enjoy more leisurely activities while camping. Take the opportunity while in Blue River to enjoy the water and bring your paddle board or rent kayaks, canoes from Murtle Lake Canoes and soak in the sun. Murtle Canoes proudly provide only high-quality Hellman Canoes!
Open during the spring and summer
Murtle Lake, Thompson-Nicola, BC
**Pre-pay and reserve a water vessel before you get there to ensure a boat as well as show up with a signed waiver to have with you at the day of your arrival
Photo by Kelly Funk Blue River
Food: Pullover and grab a bite to eat
Conveniently located off Highway 5 in Blue River is the Grizzly Food shack. Here, you can grab a burger to go, or sit down in their picnic area with a picturesque backdrop of the mountains. Located in the scenic town of Blue River, Grizzly Food Shack offers cozy food that fits road trip and camping vibes.
Open every day but Sundays
869 West Frontage Road, Blue River, British Columbia V0E 1J0 Canada
Valemount
Valemount is a picturesque town nestled in the heart of British Columbia, Canada. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, it offers breathtaking natural beauty and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its warm community atmosphere and proximity to stunning provincial parks, Valemount is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Photo by Kelly Funk
Accommodations: campgrounds and cabins
Tete Jaune Lodge is the perfect stop as you make your way to the farthest point of the North Thompson Valley. Stay in the cabins equipped with a heater, mini fridge, and microwave, near the new shower house available 24 hours a day. Or pitch your tent at one of the many spots near the riverbank. The onsite amenities are endless with games and playgrounds for kids as well as fishing, badminton equipment, a library and a washroom and laundry.
11957 L'Heureux Road, Tete Jaune Cache, British Columbia V0E 2Z0
Experience a weekend of camping and golf at Valemount Pines Campground. This friendly and fun campground offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. Spend your days playing golf on their scenic course, surrounded by a forested backdrop, tree-lined fairways, and meticulously maintained greens with stunning mountain views throughout all 18 holes. In the evenings, unwind at one of their 36 full and half service camping spots or 10 no service spots, where you can bring your own tent and enjoy a stay amidst the mountains.
Working hours are 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day
Fraser-Fort George, BC V0E 2Z0
Activities: What to do while you’re there
Experience an exhilarating adventure as you ride the Class III rapids of the mighty Fraser River near Valemount. This action-packed water ride promises an unforgettable experience for adrenaline seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Book any level of rafting from a leisurely float with The Scenic Fraser Float for 2.5 hours or a White Water Rafting on the Fraser River for a 3 hour trip, with Mount Robson White Water Rafting Co. Book a reservation to secure a rafting spot.
16895 Farnsworth Road Valemount, British Columbia, V0E 2Z0, Canada
Photo by Kelly Funk
Embark on an exploration of Mount Robson, the peak that proudly stands as the highest in the Canadian Rockies. Immerse yourself in what the mountain has to offer from cascading waterfalls, glacial lakes, wildflowers, captivating wildlife, and old growth forests. Discover Mount Robson as it invites you to experience nature in its most breathtaking form. Try adventures like a Heli-Hike, camping in Mount Robson Provincial Park, hiking or mountain biking and more.
**Check all advisories regarding Mount Robson before you go!
Food: Pullover and grab a bite to eat
Time to re-energize before the car ride home. Based in Valemount, BC, Vale Coffee is a dedicated small batch coffee roasting company. They are committed to delivering meticulously sourced and thoughtfully curated coffee to the locals and tourists of Valemount. Established in 2020 by four passionate partners—Elliott, Megan, Ryker, and Rena—Vale Coffee combines diverse backgrounds and skills to foster a vibrant specialty coffee culture in Valemount and the scenic Robson Valley.
Open Thursday to Sunday 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
940 Main St, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0
Photo by @valecoffeeroasters
The Valemount Swiss Bakery Ltd. “Good bread needs good ingredients. Great bread needs time and love,” this family-owned bakery delights locals and visitors alike with their array of freshly baked Swiss goods. From artisanal breads, pastries, and desserts, every item at Valemount Swiss Bakery is crafted with care and attention to detail. Whether you're craving a coffee, a traditional Swiss treat, or a beautifully made cake for a special occasion, a visit to the Valemount Swiss Bakery promises a delicious experience for all.
Open on the weekend in the summer from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
1020 Main St, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0
Photo by @campercraftcanada
Enjoy your trip along Highway 5. Bring a friend or the whole family and experience what the North Thompson has to offer from food, to cabin retreats, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Don't miss the chance to take the memorable road trip along Highway 5 this spring or summer.
Written by Caroline Peterson
BC local, Caroline has lived in the lower mainland but now resides in in the Okanagan. Currently a student, Caroline is hoping to use what she learns in school to highlight, and create interest around the Thompson Okanagan with a fresh, and new perceptive.
Discover the Beauty of Boundary Country
Along the Crowsnest Pass in southern British Columbia sits Boundary Country - an outdoor lovers dream with a rich history. Find out more about what makes this area special.
5 Reasons to Add Boundary to Your Travel Plans
Along the Crowsnest Pass in southern British Columbia sits Boundary Country - an outdoor lovers dream with a rich history. Read on to find out more about what makes this area special.
1 - Get a glimpse of northern Washington from the 49th parallel
Did you know that you can hike up the Midway Mountain Trail and actually SEE into the United States? An added bonus is that the view in all directions is worth the trek.
Views from Midway Mountain Trail
Find out more about Boundary Country trails here: https://boundarybc.com/play/trails/
2 - Become a History Buff in Greenwood
From it’s booming days in the 1890’s as a mining hub, to the insurgence of Japanese Canadians in the 1940’s, to the outdoor recreation hub of today - the smallest city in Canada has an intriguing history worth delving into.
Downtown Greenwood
Read more about the history of Greenwood here: http://greenwoodcity.com/visiting/heritage-history
3 - Paddle across Canada’s warmest tree-lined lake
Christina Lake is touted as “the warmest tree-lined lake in Canada” and is easily accessible along Highway 3. A beautiful provincial park with a large sandy beach and calm waters throughout the year make this spot popular for water sports.
Christina Lake
Find out more about Christina Lake here: https://christinalake.ca/
4 - Start an epic journey at Mile Zero of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail
In the early 1900s, Midway Station was a junction point for railways going east, west and south making it “Mile Zero” of the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) line. Now, the station is home to the Kettle Valley Museum and is a jumping off point for hiking and biking along the now decommissioned KVR.
Kettle River Museum, Midway
Find out more about the KVR here: https://bcrailtrails.com and more about the museum here: https://kettlerivermuseum.org.
5 - Connect with nature
Nature is neat and Boundary Country is a nature lover’s dream. Grab a campsite right along the Kettle River and cast your line to catch your dinner. Hike or bike the numerous trails that take you over waterfalls and through rugged wilderness. View wildlife while exploring the many provincial parks - the opportunities to connect with the great outdoors are endless.
Find out more about Boundary Country here: boundarybc.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Carla Young is the Travel Media & Digital Marketing Specialist at TOTA. Originally from Saskatchewan, she is a recent transplant to the Okanagan and enjoys exploring her new home in her free time.
5 Great Trails & Tips for Hiking with Less Impact
Bucket-list worthy hikes in the Thompson Okanagan and tips on how to preserve our natural spaces for years to come.
Bucket-list Worthy Hikes in the Thompson Okanagan
Growing up in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, I was constantly spoiled by endless alpine hikes and viewpoints. Before I moved to the Thompson Okanagan, I didn’t necessarily think of the region as a destination for hiking, but this belief quickly changed.
Over the years I have explored the vast majority of the Thompson Okanagan region and here’s what I would consider my “bucket-list” trails for avid hikers.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Hope to Castlegar
The Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail and the Columbia & Western Rail Trail is the longest rail trail network in British Columbia extending from Hope to Castlegar. Once a comprehensive railroad system, the decommissioned tracks are now home to an extensive recreational trail providing almost 650 km (400 mi) of connected pathways throughout the region.
Experiences on the trail can be self-guided or part of an organized tour, with sections ranging from family-friendly day-trips to overnight legs for experienced riders.
Learn more about the trail at bcrailtrails.com.
Frosty Mountain, E.C. Manning Provincial Park
Frosty Mountain Trail is located in E.C. Manning Provincial Park, 45 minutes Southeast of Hope. This trail is strenuous, but known for its wildflowers and sub-alpine larches of which turn a vibrant gold around the third week of September.
Learn more about this trail from BC Parks.
Berg Lake Trail, Mount Robson Provincial Park
This internationally-renowned trail ventures to Berg Lake, an immaculately turquoise alpine lake at the base of the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. There are many other spectacular sights along the way like Kinney Lake and Emperor Falls, both worth the trek on their own.
BC Parks caps the number of people that are allowed to camp at any given time, so make sure to book well in advance or visit during the off-season. Limiting the number of people camping helps to manage the environmental impact of visitors and ensures campers are able to enjoy the serenity of this area without battling a crowd.
Learn more about this trail from BC Parks.
Enderby Cliffs Provincial Park, Shuswap
This steep but rewarding trail offers bird-eye views of the Shuswap and North Okanagan. Ensure you stick to the trail as this area is prone to erosion.
Learn more about this trail from BC Parks.
Lac Du Bois Grasslands Protected Area, Thompson Valley
This protected area represents both the Thompson Basin and Northern Thompson Uplands ecosystems. Containing unique and complex ecosystems, this area is a wonderful place to explore the diversity of the Thompson region.
Take the Cinnamon Ridge trail (4.25 km semi-loop/linear trail) to experience hoodoos, desert plants and grassland.
Learn more about this protected area from BC Parks.
Tips for Reducing Your Impact on Trails
Now we have all seen the signs that say “take only photos & leave only footprints” and while this is a great mantra, how do we actually ensure that we are being stewards of our parks and preserving the natural space for years to come?
With increasing numbers of tourists visiting our naturals spaces every year, we need to ensure that we are taking proper precautions to preserve our natural specimens for years to come.
I grew up spending a lot of time in the Canadian outdoors. Luckily for me, my father was in outdoor education, so environmental stewardship was ingrained in me from a young age. Whether I am on a 5 day backpacking trip through Mount Robson Provincial Park, or taking a stroll to Paul’s Tomb in Kelowna, there are many ways in which I strive to reduce my impact on our trail systems.
Plan Ahead
The most important tip is to plan ahead. Every area has different rules, regulations and facilities to be aware of. Check the weather forecasts ahead of time and be informed of any advisories and fire bans that may be in effect. Ensure you know what bathroom facilities are or are not available and whether there is trash disposal on-site.
Stay on Designated Trails and Avoid Shortcuts
It can be tempting to venture off the trail for a viewpoint or a unique photo opportunity, but this can be extremely hard on the local flora and fauna. Stick to the trail and take breaks on hard surfaces like rocks instead of on mosses or forest floor.
Minimize Campsite Impact
A poorly managed campsite can be unpleasant for visitors and may attract unwanted wildlife. To minimize your campsite impact, only camp in designated areas (ideally on tent pads), plan food proportions appropriately so that you don’t end up with leftovers, use as few dishes as possible and wash them with biodegradable soap, dispose of trash as posted or pack it out with you - never burn or bury trash at your campsite.
Respect Wildlife
Never approach, encourage contact with, or feed wildlife - this can be dangerous to both parties. Use bear hangs or locks and never eat or store scented items in your tent. For more wildlife safety tips, visit BC Parks.
Visit in the Off-Season
You may have to deal with more extreme weather, but the trail systems will be less busy and you might even have the whole place to yourself!
Other Resources
Organizations like BC Parks and Leave No Trace Canada are excellent resources for learning more about how you preserve natural landscapes for years to come.
It’s important to always be informed and prepared when heading out into the wilderness. Plan ahead, know the current conditions, and use Adventure Smart as a safety resource.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Meghan Reading is a Canadian travel photographer. She grew up in the rocky mountains of Alberta but now calls British Columbia home. While she looks forward to continuing to explore the world with her camera, her favourite destination will always be her own backyard.
8 Ways to Reduce Your Travel Impact in the Thompson Okanagan
Embrace land to table, take the road less travelled, and plan ahead. These tips will change the way you travel.
Easy Travel Tips that Help the Planet
1. Plan ahead & pack wisely
Planning ahead will help you avoid single use plastics like cutlery, shopping bags, takeout containers, coffee mugs and disposable water bottles. Pack these this with you ahead of time to cut down on waste during your trip.
Two of my favourite local products that would be on my packing list are produce bags from The Market Bags and my Okanagan Lifestyle growler.
Okanagan Lifestyle Growler & The Market Bag
Credit: Meghan Reading
2. Shop Locally
I could go on forever about how the Okanagan is one of the best places for local goodies. There are so many artisans creating beautifully crafted goods for you to enjoy and take home as souvenirs.
Picking Fruit & Farmers Market
Credit: Destination BC
Instead of heading to the grocery store, stop by one of the numerous farmers’ markets or road-side stands for local fare that’s in-season.
Some of the goodies that I can’t live without are Karat Chocolate, Broken Ladder Cider (bring your own growler), Queen B Kettle Korn and WINE!
3. Take the Road Less Travelled
In the summer, crowds flock to the Thompson Okanagan to enjoy the relaxed lakeside lifestyle. As the temperatures cool down, visitors disperse and you’ll oftentimes have an entire beach, trail or lookout to yourself.
Plan on visiting popular areas in the off-season. Wells Gray Provincial Park makes a fabulous getaway in the winter - the frozen waterfalls are arguably even more magical in a frosty state.
Wells Gray Provincial Park
Credit: Meghan Reading
Get off the beaten path and visit some of the Thompson Okanagan’s less well-known destinations. One of my favourite location is the Similkameen Valley - both Keremeos and Cawston have incredible wineries and fruit stands, but are less on-the-radar than the popular Okanagan Valley benches.
Similkameen Valley & Harkers' Organics
Credit: Meghan Reading
Visiting the Thompson Okanagan in the shoulder season also allows small businesses who might be financially reliant on a single season to grow and become more sustainable for the long-term. Win-win.
4. Try a New Kind of Transportation
Take a guided tour, splurge on an electric vehicle rental or opt for a bike trip to reduce your travel impact.
Kelowna (Kilawna) recently adopted Drop Bike, a great way to see downtown Kelowna. There are also some incredible bike tours along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, you’ll cover a lot of distance and can even choose between a traditional bike or an electric bike to make the ride even more comfortable.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Naramata Bench
Credit: Destination British Columbia
Power Trips is an electric vehicle rental company in the Okanagan (Suqnaqinx). If you are looking to splurge, take one of these luxurious Teslas on a scenic drive through the valley. Definitely a road trip to remember.
5. Choose Sustainable Accommodation
Choose accommodations who value environmental stewardship, social responsibility and supporting local Indigenous cultures.
Keep an eye out for accommodations who have sought out third-party certifications like Biosphere Tourism and Green Tourism Canada. This shows they have taken steps towards improving their external impact.
Myra Canyon Ranch
Credit: Destination BC
Check out these unique and interesting sustainable places to stay for some inspiration.
6. Stick to Designated Trails While Hiking
It can be tempting to venture off the trail for a viewpoint or a unique photo opportunity, but this can be extremely hard on the local flora and fauna. Stick to the trail and take breaks on hard surfaces like rocks instead of on mosses or forest floor.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Myra Bellevue Provincial Park
Credit: Destination BC
For more tips on how to reduce your impact on trail systems click here.
7. Embrace Farm-to-Table Experiences
The Thompson Okanagan celebrates sustainable farming and local fare. Throughout the year you will find a variety of restaurants and events to showcase the bounty of the valley in a variety of ways.
Quail's Gate Winery & God's Mountain
Credit: Destination BC
Some of my favourite foodie experiences are:
Quails’ Gate Dinner in the Vineyard Series
Gods’ Mountain x Joy Road’s Alfresco Dinner
Start Fresh Kitchen Cooking Classes
Okanagan Select Salmon Tasting Room
8. Participate in Carbon Offset Programs
There are many ways in which we can reduce our travel impact. Ultimately, travelling produces a carbon footprint in many ways - emissions from a car rental or a flight to the destination are two fairly large culprits. Carbon Offset Programs work to compensate for this carbon footprint in a variety of ways. Many of these programs are still in their introductory phase, so make sure you do your research to determine if they are a good fit for you.
Have sustainability suggestions to add? We would love to hear your input on our Facebook or Instagram.
Safe travels.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Meghan Reading is a Canadian travel photographer. She grew up in the rocky mountains of Alberta but now calls British Columbia home. While she looks forward to continuing to explore the world with her camera, her favourite destination will always be her own backyard.