With its unique blend of mountains, wetlands, forests and lakes, Kelowna is a prime destination for wildlife watching. Kelowna and the surrounding Okanagan Valley is home to a vibrant array of wildlife that brings the landscape to life. Spot deer at dusk, marmots basking in the sun, or bighorn sheep navigating the hills. Look to the skies for soaring eagles and gliding geese, or along the water for herons, diving ducks, and could even spot a beaver. From quiet forests to shimmering lakeshores, every trail holds the chance for a wild encounter.

Here's a look at some of the top nature spots in Kelowna where you can encounter wildlife—and the best times to visit. 

Mission Creek Greenway–A Wildlife Corridor in the City

^{Mission Creek Salmon Spawning Channel. Photo: ARK Media}

One of the best places for spotting deer, birds and even the occasional black bear, Mission Creek Greenway Regional Park winds through forests and meadows right in the heart of Kelowna. This 16.5-km multi-use trail follows Mission Creek and serves as a key wildlife corridor. In the fall, you can view the Kokanee salmon making their way up the channels to spawn. In the upper portion of the park, make your way along the Turtle Pond Trail to a small pond with painted turtles basking in the sunshine.

Bird watching tip: Bring binoculars—this is a prime spot during spring migration 

Knox Mountain Park–Scenic Hikes & Animal Encounters

^{Knox Mountain Regional Park. Photo: Darren Hull Studios}

Knox Mountain is Kelowna’s largest natural area park, spanning 385 hectares just north of downtown. Its diverse terrain of grasslands, forested slopes and rocky outcrops makes it a haven for wildlife and a favourite for hikers, trail runners and nature lovers. The park’s trails offer a variety of vantage points, including spectacular lookouts over Okanagan Lake and the city below. 

Nature bonus: The summit lookout is perfect for spotting soaring raptors 

Myra-Bellevue Park – Backcountry Wildlife Watching

^{Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park during Golden Larch Season. Photo: Scott Bakken Productions}

Located just southeast of Kelowna, Myra-Bellevue Park is a vast and rugged natural area perfect for those seeking a more remote wildlife-watching experience. This expansive park is home to a variety of large mammals and bird species, offering an authentic chance to observe animals in their natural backcountry habitat. In the fall, the mountainsides turn to gold as the alpine larch trees put on a spectacular golden show.

With trails suited for hiking, e-biking, and cycling, it’s a versatile destination for outdoor adventurers. One of the park’s highlights is the historic Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, which includes the iconic Myra Canyon Trestles. There are 14 viewpoint benches located along this stretch, offering spectacular vistas of the Okanagan Valley and the steep canyon terrain below ideal for bird watching or simply taking in the view. 

Safety tip: Always be bear aware and carry bear spray in remote areas 

Okanagan Lake – Spotting Fish, Birds & Shoreline Life

^{Rotary Marsh Park in Downtown Kelowna. Photo: Darren Hull Studios}

For water-based wildlife watching, Okanagan Lake delivers. Whether you're paddling through calm waters or wandering the shoreline, keep an eye out for fish glinting below the surface and aquatic birds skimming above. Along the Waterfront Boardwalk in Downtown Kelowna, Rotary Marsh Park offers a peaceful pocket of nature—this protected wetland is home to herons, beavers, turtles, and fish, all thriving just steps from the city’s vibrant core. If you're a birder, don't forget to bring your binoculars to this popular birding spot!

Watch from: City Park, the Mission Creek outlet or on a kayak tour.

When’s the Best Time for Wildlife Watching in Kelowna? 

While you can spot wildlife year-round in Kelowna, the spring and fall seasons offer the richest opportunities. Spring brings bird migrations, active mammals and newborns, while fall features salmon spawning, bird departures and rutting season for deer. Early mornings and dusk are typically the most active times for sightings. 

Top Tips to Respect Wildlife and Stay Safe 

Observing wildlife in their natural habitat is one of the most rewarding parts of exploring Kelowna’s outdoors. But with that privilege comes responsibility. Following Parks Canada’s guidelines helps ensure your safety and protects the animals that call these spaces home. 

• Know before you go: Research local wildlife and check with park staff when you arrive to learn what species live in the area. 

• Never feed wildlife: It is illegal and dangerous. Feeding animals or leaving food out can create dependency and aggressive behaviour. 

• Keep dogs leashed: Off-leash pets can provoke wildlife and increase the risk of attacks. 

• Keep your area clean: Store food, garbage and scented items securely, especially at campsites or picnic spots. 

• Hike smart: Travel in groups, make noise, carry bear spray and avoid hiking at dawn or dusk when animals are most active. 

• Respect distance: Use binoculars or a telephoto lens. Stay at least 30 metres from deer or elk, and 100 metres from bears or cougars. 

• Stay on trails: Avoid venturing into restricted or closed areas and always respect signage. 

• Avoid roadside stops: Don’t create traffic hazards by pulling over to view animals. Observe wildlife safely from your vehicle as you pass. 

• No drones: Drones disturb wildlife and are prohibited in national parks and many local protected areas. 

By staying alert, travelling respectfully and knowing how to act, you’ll protect yourself, others and the incredible wildlife that makes Kelowna’s outdoors so special.