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Local Parks

Local Parks

If you’re looking to enjoy the wonderful environment of the South Okanagan then hitting the trails will give you the best experience. A wide range of trails of varying difficulty cater to hiking, biking (including e-bikes), and trail running. Outdoor enthusiasts are spoiled for choice and Osoyoos makes a great base to explore the unique beauty and diversity of this desert environment. Experience the Okanagan River valley, grasslands, highlands, and mountains surrounding Osoyoos Lake and Oliver to the north. And as an added bonus there is always the reward of a refreshing glass of wine on one of the patios of the area’s many wineries at the end (or middle) of your adventure. Remember the temperature can get quite hot so bring sun protection and water to drink.

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Photography by Melissa Fowler | @melissamfowler

Strawberry Creek Trail

For some beautiful views of Osoyoos Lake and town, take a stroll on the Strawberry Creek Trail. Located on the west side of Osoyoos the trail winds through the Osoyoos hills, past a historic mine, and around a golf course. The trail gives fantastic views of the lower Okanagan Valley with only a moderate walking effort. The trail is not well marked so best to check a map and seek some local advice.

Photography by Backwoods Mama | www.backwoodsmama.com

Oxbows

At the northern end of Osoyoos Lake, the Oxbows is a wonderful wetland area that is popular for its easy hiking, as well as bird watching. In fact, the Oxbows protected area supports 20 per cent of the B.C. population of Yellowbreasted Chats, a bird species that is listed as critically imperiled in B.C .and nationally threatened.

Photography by Backwoods Mama www.backwoodsmama.com

Mount Kobau

Soaring 1,873 metres over the Southern Okanagan river valley, Mount Kobau offers sweeping views. It can be enjoyed through two short hiking trails – one 1.3 km round trip with a view overlooking Osoyoos, or a 3 km loop trail that leads in the opposite direction to the Chopaka Lookout with views over the Keremeos/Cawston Valley. There is also a small picnic area at the trailhead just off the parking lot.

Photography by Let’s Go Biking | www.letsgobiking.net

International Hike & Bike Trail

This 18.4 km trail begins at the north end of Osoyoos Lake. The flat, mostly paved pathway runs alongside the Okanagan River channel, past orchards and vineyards to the McAlpine Bridge in Oliver. Accessible to all ages both on foot and bicycle. 15

Photography by Greg Reely | gregreelyphotography

sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point)

sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point) is a beautiful campsite and day-use park located within the traditional territory of the Osoyoos Indian Band that is both archaeologically and culturally significant. The main loop trail is fully paved, great for walking and biking. The park also is home to a wetland trail, providing access to abundant habitat. The park is proudly managed and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band.

Photography by Minivanpam | Trailforks.com

Dogtown Trail

The 7 km Dogtown Trail is located within the White Lake Grasslands Protected area. A variety of hikes of varying lengths are located in this area, popular with those seeking to view wildlife.

Photography by Melissa Fowler | @melissamfowler

Anarchist Mountain Lookout

No trip to the South Okanagan is complete without a visit to this viewpoint just outside of Osoyoos. Rising 1,491 metres (4,892 ft) above sea level, Anarchist Mountain offers panoramic views of Osoyoos Lake, the town, as well as south towards Washington State and the Town of Oroville, WA. Head East on Highway 3 from Osoyoos. Follow the switchback for approximately 7 km until you reach the area to safely pull off on the right handside.

Photography by Baldy Mountain Resort | www.baldyresort.com

Baldy Summit

Baldy Summit to Gilly’s Cabin is a 11.3 km loop trail in a beautiful forest setting. At the top your effort is rewarded with expansive views of the Southern valley areas from Osoyoos to Oliver. In mid to late summer the alpine wildflowers add a stunning visual component.

Photography by Backwoods Mama | www.backwoodsmama.com Photography by Let’s Go Biking | www.letsgobiking.net

Golden Mile Trail Irrigation Canal Walkway

If you fancy a hike or bike through a vineyard try out the 4 km Golden Mile Trail which starts from the scenic Tinhorn Creek Estate winery. As you make your way through the vineyards, you will pass Fairview Townsite, a former Gold Rush town offering lovely views of Oliver and the surrounding hills. A longer 10km loop leads uphill to the dilapidated ruins of the Stamp Mill. This flat 12 km trail travels along the now-abandoned waterway that once provided water to the orchards and wineries in the area. It’s great for walkers, cyclists, and those pushing strollers. The trail now features Story Walk boards starting at the West Bench trail head. While you enjoy the trail, you and your kids can read the story ‘Max Goes to the Space Station’ by Jeffrey Bennett.

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