Outdoor Adventure in the Thompson Okanagan

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.

Winter's arrival transforms the Thompson Okanagan into a snow-capped wonderland, where families and friends can enjoy adventures, food, and beverages.

Explore the many great ski mountain resorts in the Thompson Okanagan region. When the resorts transition to summer they offer a new array of exciting warm-weather adventures. Among these, hiking is one of the many adventures that can be enjoyed on these famous mountains. From easy to challenging hikes, and opportunity for trail running, these mountains have it all.

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.

Lakes of all shapes and sizes are one of the main topographies of the Thompson Okanagan. Most offer the perfect setting for the true Canadian experience of dropping your line and enjoying the crisp winter breeze off the frozen lake. Learn about where the locals favourite spots are to drop a line and catch the biggest fish.

Fall is right around the corner and the Thompson Okanagan will soon be filled with endless forests filled with bold reds, yellows, and orange coloured trees. While you look up in amazement at the trees, remember to look down at the astonishing sights of one of Mother Earth’s great migrations of the salmon in the rivers below.

Beyond the wineries, farm stands, hiking trails, and cycling routes, plenty of opportunities to swim, kayak, canoe the lakes, and camp in the Thompson Okanagan! Learn about a few favourite Okanagan campsites picked from Hipcamp.

There is no better feeling than falling asleep under the stars after a long day of hiking wilderness trails and enjoying panoramic views of BC’s outback that are unlike any you have seen before. Learn about BC Provincial Parks that offer hiking, camping, and a front row seat to the best views and light show at night.

Spring has the Thompson Okanagan buzzing, literally and figuratively, with the excitement for warmer weather, longer days, and the sprouting of new flowers. While residents and travelers are getting outside to enjoy the sun, the bees have begun to leave their hives and are hard at work pollinating the many flowers, vineyards, and orchards in the region.

The Thompson Okanagan is surrounded by a diverse range of world-class backcountry experiences complete with lodges located in the middle of snowy valleys surrounded by unbelievable slopes. Find backcountry experiences you will want to add to your winter bucket list..

It has been a blooming spring in the Thompson Okanagan. Enjoy some beautiful captures of the spring flowers and some fun facts to go along with them.

There are so many provincial parks within our region, it can be hard to decide which ones to visit first. Here are few great options of parks to add to your bucket list this year.

Whether you're a newbie or have some backcountry experience - you'll know safety and confidence are essential when venturing out of bounds.

Mike, Lyndie, and the dedicated team at Hoodoo Adventures care deeply about building stronger connections - to the outdoors and among their community. With innovative initiatives to get people outside and active, they remain a gateway to adventure and constant for their community through times of uncertainty.

In 2004, Josh was in a life-changing freestyle skiing accident that left him as a T11 full paraplegic. But, despite seemingly insurmountable odds, Josh persevered, becoming the Para-Alpine World Champion in 2009. Read his story and his view of why do so many incredible people choose to call the North Okanagan home?

Why is the Thompson Okanagan so beautiful in fall? Like the other three seasons, the region has a swath of lakes, mountains and vistas that are breathtaking, but in autumn the foliage really stands out. We wanted to know why, so we went to an expert.

Visit the Similkameen Valley, a unique and hidden region unlike any other in Canada. Whether you’re visiting Keremeos, Hedley, Princeton, or Manning Park, you’re sure to find something that will put you in a state of awe.

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.

Tuck into a cozy backcountry alpine cabin after spending the day surrounded by 360 degrees of wilderness.

Sometimes you need a change in pace, a quiet spot to forget everyday life and soak in nature. Somewhere where there’s no cell service, limited amenities, spotty-to-no-wifi and very little traffic.

The Adams River, specifically Tsútswecw Provincial Park (formerly, Roderick Haig-Brown) features one of the largest runs in North America. On a dominant year (like 2018), millions of fish can be observed as they make the long journey home.

Bucket-list worthy hikes in the Thompson Okanagan and tips on how to preserve our natural spaces for years to come.