Kelowna is world-renowned as a destination for hiking, biking, and all sorts of other outdoor recreation. No matter the season you’ll find people enjoying the sights of beautiful British Columbia all across the region, be it along lakeside trails or towering mountain paths there’s always something to enjoy. But while many flock to the spanning vistas of Knox Mountain or the unique experience of traversing the Myra Canyon Trestles, there are many parks and pathways in Kelowna that go unnoticed on your average trip. So, today we’ll be exploring some of them!
Eagle View Trail & Quail Flume Trail
Quail Flume Trail Entrance. Photo: City of Kelowna
The Eagle View Trail and Quail Flume Trail can be found near the edge of Kelowna, just north of the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus in the Quail Ridge neighborhood. Though technically separate, together the pair form one of the more dynamic trail systems contained in such a relatively small area. The Eagle View Trail, named for its high incidence of bald eagle sightings, is one of Kelowna’s only mixed use trails marked for equestrian riding, which means you might be sharing the trail with riders on horseback during your jaunt. Meanwhile, the Quail Flume trail runs alongside one of Kelowna’s old historic irrigation flumes. This extensive system once operated throughout the Okanagan to provide water to local farms and orchards, and now the Quail Flume is one of the last remaining remnants of this economic lifeblood. This fantastic combination of one of a kind wildlife spotting, unique zoning, and intriguing history are what make these trails so special, and definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Kalamoir Regional Park
Kalamoir Shoreline. Photo: Hiking Addiction
Kalamoir Regional Park is a local favourite that often goes overlooked by visitors to the region. There are several kilometres of lakeside trails, ranging from gentle grasslands, to stepper hill climbs, to the rugged shoreline full of potential secrets to discover. Located in West Kelowna, the park also offers uninterrupted views of the eastern hills and distant vineyards across the water, creating a true snapshot of the Kelowna experience all in one place!
Mill Creek Regional Park
Mill Creek Regional Park Waterfall. Photo: ©RDCO & Michael Hintringer
Mill Creek is one of Kelowna’s most understated landmarks. Running from the airport down to its outflow right by the William R. Bennett Bridge, this waterway is a central feature of a surprising number of local parks. It runs right through both Millbridge Park and Parkison Recreation Park, as well as the eponymous Mill Creek Linear Park that could very well be its own section of this article. The real star of the show, however, comes where the creek first meets the valley floor at Mill Creek Regional Park. This gentle oasis contains a modest trail that brings you right up to the winding waterfall and beyond, shaded from the elements by a beautiful Okanagan forest. It’s the perfect spot for pets, families, or even solo hikers looking for a short jaunt away from it all!
Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park
Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park. Photo: Matt Ferguson Photography
Did you know that Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park isn’t the only provincial park on the east side of Okanagan Lake? While the trestles at Myra Canyon are world famous, the rugged trails and panoramic views of Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park are often relatively underappreciated. This provincial park is perfect for those looking for a more intense trail than those offered elsewhere in the city, with the long stretch of Wild Horse Canyon providing a worthy hike and access to secluded coves and beaches along the undeveloped east shore of Okanagan Lake. If you traverse the whole way through, it’s even possible to link up with Chute Lake Road and walk all the way to Naramata and Penticton beyond!
Woodhaven Regional Park
Woodhaven Regional Park. Photo: ©RDCO & Michael Hintringer
Woodhaven Regional Park is one of the most undeniably unique spots in Kelowna, and it’s hidden tucked away from the beaten path at the edge of the Lower Mission. Within its 30 hectares, it contains four distinct climate zones all traversable in a brief walk. From thick Douglas fir forests to stunning ponderosa pine mountainsides, this bite-sized park has everything you could want in an exploration of Okanagan ecosystems all in one place! The park’s history is also remarkable, hosting both the historic cabin of Kelowna’s first mayor Henry William Raymer as well as another of the old irrigation flumes that helped keep Kelowna’s 20th-century agricultural business booming.
Discover Underappreciated Trails in Kelowna and the Okanagan!
These are just a few of the paths that might go unnoticed on a first visit to the city. There are countless incredible hiking trails spanning across the Central Okanagan, each holding its own wonders and secrets to discover. But don’t take it from me! The best way to discover Kelowna is to get out and explore. You might just be surprised by what you find. Try checking out our guide to hiking trails for more to experience!
