Welcome to the Okanagan Valley, a four-season playground and an ideal destination for road and hybrid biking enthusiasts. With its diverse terrain and stunning landscapes, the Okanagan offers a wide variety of biking routes suitable for all skill levels. Whether you prefer flat routes in the valley bottom, challenging outings in the hills, or scenic rides through vineyards, the Okanagan has something for everyone. If you don’t have a bike of your own, worry not! You can easily rent a road or hybrid bike through Pairables.ca, a peer-to-peer rental system. Pairables.ca connects bike owners with enthusiasts, making it convenient to find the perfect bike for your biking escapades in the Okanagan.
In this guide, we present the top biking routes in the region that are specifically designed for road and hybrid bikes. Let’s dive in!
Top 13 Trails For Biking in the Okanagan
Okanagan Rail Trail
Route: Kelowna to Coldstream
Distance: 49.5 kilometers
The Okanagan Rail Trail takes the top spot on our list for numerous reasons. This trail is the result of a collaborative effort between the City of Kelowna, District of Lake Country, Okanagan Indian Band, and North Okanagan Regional District. It offers a seamless connection between these communities, and the trail itself spans an impressive 49.5 kilometers. The trail is currently under construction, with a one-kilometer test section already open for public use. Once completed, it will provide a fantastic biking experience through picturesque landscapes and charming communities.
Myra Canyon
Route: Southeast of Kelowna
Distance: 12 kilometers
Located high on the south slopes of Kelowna, Myra Canyon offers a spectacular biking experience. Formerly a part of the Kettle Valley Railway, this route is now a segment of the Trans Canada Trail. Biking along the top of the steep-walled canyon, you’ll encounter 16 wood trestles, two steel spans, and two rock tunnels. The route stretches for 12 kilometers, providing breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake, Naramata, and its renowned vineyards.
Skaha Lake Loop
Route: Penticton
Distance: Varies
The Skaha Lake Loop offers a scenic biking experience with multiple route options. You can choose to cycle along the paved Eastside Road on the east side of Skaha Lake and return via the unpaved section of the former Kettle Valley Railway on the west side. Alternatively, you can start with the KVR trail and then cycle the paved road. Keep in mind that the KVR trail may have sandy sections that require additional effort. Along the way, take a break at Lions Gardens, a charming nature park on the south shore of Skaha Lake.
Okanagan Shuswap Century Ride Circle Route
Route: Various
Distance: Varies
The Okanagan Shuswap Century Ride Circle Route is a popular choice for biking enthusiasts. This route offers scenic views of the North Okanagan’s rolling farmland and picturesque landscapes. The annual century rides on this route, spanning 53 and 100 kilometers, were rerouted due to the washout of the Heywood-Armstrong Bridge. However, a new bridge has been constructed, allowing cyclists to once again enjoy this beautiful route. For more information on the Century Ride and its routes, visit oscr.ca.
Wood Lake Loop
Route: Lake Country
Distance: Varies
With the newly upgraded Pelmewash Parkway, the Wood Lake Loop offers a leisurely ride with multiple opportunities to pause and enjoy the lakeshore. Starting at the north end, you can turn onto Oyama Road and take a break on the beautiful beach. Continue along rolling Oyama Road on the east side of the lake until you reach Woodsdale Road, where you can take another break at Beasley Park. Complete your loop by cycling a short section of Highway 97 back to Pelmewash Parkway, where you started. Lake Country has plans to further enhance Pelmewash Parkway to make it even more bike-friendly.
International Hike and Bike Trail
Route: Osoyoos to Oliver
Distance: 18.4 kilometers
Combining wine touring, desert scenery, and a cycling route into one, the International Hike and Bike Trail is a must-try experience. This trail runs for 18.4 kilometers between Osoyoos and Oliver, taking you past 11 wineries, including Silver Sage Winery, Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, and Inniskillin Okanagan Estate. The trailhead is located 8 kilometers from Osoyoos at the north end of Osoyoos Lake, and the endpoint is McAlpine Bridge on Highway #97 at the north end of Oliver. The route features paved or gravel pathways and offers suitable options for all ages and skill levels.
Fairview Trail Network / Golden Mile
Route: Near Oliver
Distance: 10 kilometers
Ever dreamed of biking through vineyards? The Fairview Trail Network is a 10-kilometer loop that begins at Tinhorn Creek Winery near Oliver. This picturesque route takes you through the vineyards, offering spectacular views of Oliver and the rolling hills that surround it. As an added bonus, you can also explore the Golden Mile Trail, which connects to the Fairview Trail Network near Tinhorn Creek. If you’re up for a challenge, make a visit to the remains of the 100-year-old Stamp Mill, located off the Golden Mile Trail. After your ride, indulge in a wine tasting at the winery or enjoy live music as part of the Canadian Concert Series (available between May and September).
City of Kelowna Triangular Loop Route
Route: Kelowna
Distance: Varies
The City of Kelowna Triangular Loop Route offers a convenient and accessible biking experience within the city limits. Starting downtown, the route takes you through various trails and pathways, including Clement Avenue, Mission Creek Greenway, Gordon Drive, Lakeshore Road, Abbott Street recreation corridor, City Park promenade, and the waterfront multi-use pathway. This family-friendly ride is mostly flat, although the section from Mission Creek Regional Park to Lakeshore Road may have some bumps. Check the city’s Active by Nature Route map for more details.
Trail 2000, West Kelowna
Route: West Kelowna
Distance: Varies
Trail 2000 in West Kelowna is a project by the Gellatly Bay Trails and Parks Society aimed at creating a waterfront pathway from Peachland to Bennett Bridge. The completed phase, known as the Gellatly Bay Recreation Corridor, runs from The Cove resort north along Gellatly Bay. The society is actively working on additional sections, but these are still in the planning phase and require further funding and construction. Keep an eye on their website for updates and information on their annual Trek for Trails fundraiser.
Fur Brigade Trail and Linear Park
Route: Summerland to Peachland
Distance: Varies
The Fur Brigade Trail and Linear Park offer a historic biking experience through picturesque landscapes. This trail was used by Hudson Bay Company fur traders and later became part of the Cariboo Gold Rush Trail. Starting at Priest Camp Historic Park in Summerland, you can follow the trail for 4.1 kilometers to reach one of the most sensational viewpoints of Okanagan Lake. The trail continues, eventually emerging at Log Chute Road just south of Hardy Falls Regional Park, near Peachland. The Trail of the Okanagans Society organizes Tea at the Top events at the Fur Brigade Lookout, allowing participants to enjoy the stunning views from both ends of the trail.
Mabel Lake Road to Mabel Lake Provincial Park
Route: Vernon to Mabel Lake Provincial Park
Distance: 60 kilometers
For a scenic ride through picturesque landscapes, the Mabel Lake Road to Mabel Lake Provincial Park route is worth considering. Start your journey in Vernon and head east on Highway 6 towards Lumby. From there, cycle north on paved Mabel Lake Road, following the meandering path of the Shuswap River. Enjoy the breathtaking views of farmland and ranches along the way. The road includes a short one-kilometer stretch of gravel before reaching Mabel Lake, where you’ll find a provincial campground. The total distance from Vernon to Mabel Lake is approximately 60 kilometers. We recommend exploring this route during the off-season to avoid heavy tourist traffic in July and August.
Ellison Provincial Park
Route: Vernon
Distance: Varies
Nestled on the northeastern shores of Okanagan Lake, Ellison Provincial Park offers a network of biking trails suitable for road and hybrid bikes. The park features well-maintained trails that cater to riders of all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced cyclists. Enjoy a leisurely ride through lush forests, or challenge yourself with moderate elevation gains. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Mission Creek Greenway
Route: Kelowna
Distance: Varies
Explore the natural beauty of Kelowna along the Mission Creek Greenway. This multi-use trail system follows the path of Mission Creek, offering a serene and picturesque biking experience. The greenway spans approximately 16 kilometers, with various access points and parking areas along the route. Ride through lush forests, cross picturesque bridges, and enjoy the tranquility of the creek. The Mission Creek Greenway is an excellent choice for a peaceful and rejuvenating biking adventure.
Biking in the Okanagan Quick Comparision Chart
| Route | Distance (km) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Okanagan Rail Trail | 49.5 | City connections, picturesque landscapes |
| Myra Canyon | 12 | Wood trestles, stunning canyon views |
| Skaha Lake Loop | Varies | Scenic road and KVR trail options |
| Okanagan Shuswap Century Ride | Varies | Rolling farmland, picturesque landscapes |
| Wood Lake Loop | Varies | Lakeshore views, beach stops |
| International Hike and Bike Trail | 18.4 | Wineries, desert scenery, paved and gravel pathways |
| Fairview Trail Network / Golden Mile | 10 | Vineyards, Gold Rush town, Stamp Mill, wine tasting |
| City of Kelowna Triangular Loop | Varies | Convenient city route with various trails and pathways |
| Trail 2000, West Kelowna | Varies | Waterfront pathway, ongoing development, annual Trek for Trails fundraiser |
| Fur Brigade Trail and Linear Park | Varies | Historic trail, sensational viewpoints, events at Fur Brigade Lookout |
| Mabel Lake Road | 60 | Scenic landscapes, Shuswap River, Mabel Lake Provincial Park |
| Ellison Provincial Park | Varies | Diverse trails, forest scenery, panoramic lake and mountain views |
| Mission Creek Greenway | Varies | Serene creek, lush forests, picturesque bridges |
Conclusion: Biking in the Okanagan
Now that we’ve explored the top 13 biking routes in the Okanagan region, it’s time to get out there and start pedaling. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views, a taste of history, or a leisurely ride through vineyards, the Okanagan offers an array of experiences for road and hybrid biking enthusiasts. Embrace the beauty of British Columbia’s stunning landscapes and create unforgettable memories as you explore the Okanagan on two wheels. And if you don’t have a bike of your own, worry not! Pairables.ca, a peer-to-peer rental system, makes it convenient to find and rent the perfect road or hybrid bike for your Okanagan biking adventure. Happy biking!
