CYCLING

Penticton is a road biking mecca! From challenging climbs and rolling hills through the vineyards and orchards, to technical descents and long scenic routes, know you are in for a memorable ride.

From early April to October, our favourable weather allows you to get on the road early and keeps you going well into the fall months, for a longer than usual cycling season. This is one of the main reasons cyclists are drawn to the region year after year. The local cycling community is well established and supportive to all riders and can offer everything you need for an exhilarating and challenging ride.

Ideally situated in the heart of the South Okanagan Valley, surrounded by lakes, rolling vineyards and mountains, it’s little wonder that Penticton has become home to some world-class cycling and triathlon events including the Okanagan Granfondo, Peach Classic Triathlon, and IRONMAN Canada.

Whether you’re looking to do some intense training or leisurely touring, Penticton offers something for every level of rider and memories to last a lifetime. Here are just a couple local recommendations.

NARAMATA BENCH – 30 KM

This out and back ride takes you from Downtown Penticton, through lush vineyards and orchards along Naramata Bench Road into the quaint village of Naramata. The vistas over Okanagan Lake along the way are spectacular.

TOTAL ASCENT – 310 M (1,071 FT)

MAX. ELEVATION – 471 M (1,545 FT)

OKANAGAN FALLS – 45 KM

Starting from Downtown Penticton, you travel through the heart of the city, then along Eastside Road, which hugs the east shoreline of Skaha Lake and connect to MacLean Creek Road. Once you reach Okanagan Falls, you’ll circle past a number of boutique wineries before heading back along the east shoreline of Skaha Lake, following Eastside Road.

TOTAL ASCENT – 222 M (728 FT)

MAX. ELEVATION – 462 M (1,516 FT)

WHITE LAKE LOOP – 70 KM

Initially, you follow the same direction as the Okanagan Falls ride, but you continue to ride south through the village of Okanagan Falls and then head west, along Green Lake Road towards Willowbrook. This is a great ride to take in the diverse landscapes of the region, as you skirt White Lake Grasslands Protected Area and return along the west side of Skaha Lake, following Highway 97.

TOTAL ASCENT – 468 M (1,535 FT)

MAX. ELEVATION – 608 M (1,995 FT)

PACA 100 – 103 KM

A challenging loop from Penticton to Oliver. You’ll be able to take in views of the lakes, wineries and wildlife, while pushing yourself through some technical climb sections along the way.

TOTAL ASCENT – 747 M (2,451 FT)

MAX. ELEVATION – 607 M (1,991 FT)

IRONMAN CANADA – 175 KM

Here is the opportunity to challenge yourself against the best athletes in the world, right here in Penticton’s backyard. This circle route will take you from Penticton down to Osoyoos, through the villages of Cawston and Keremeos, then back to Penticton. The route has some fast flat sections, some long steep climbs and a few long rollers. Along the way you will experience the best of what the South Okanagan has to offer.

TOTAL ASCENT – 1,570 M (5,151 FT)

MAX. ELEVATION – 747 M (2,450 FT)

Mountain Biking

Locals and visitors in the know have been riding the ridges, benches and rocks around Penticton since the ‘70s. All-mountain and downhill riders can explore advanced and intermediate terrain, while fun, gentle green trails are perfect for anyone in your group to have fun.

The local networks of Campbell Mountain, Three Blind Mice and Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park offer a wide variety of trails that challenge your technical skills while also letting you enjoy flowy laps, all conveniently located within 10-15 minutes from Downtown Penticton. Thanks to the ongoing hard work of the volunteer led Penticton and Area Cycling Association (PACA), our trails receive regular maintenance, upgrades and informational signage. PACA also hosts a number of events celebrating the cycling community, including the Annual Penticton Bike Festival. While in the area, pass on some ‘Trail Karma’ and donate to the trail maintenance efforts.

Choose Your Trail

Three Blind Mice

The largest network of mountain biking trails in Penticton, offering diverse terrain for all rider levels. Here you will find cross-country trails and downhill runs that flow through the forest and offer incredible views of the orchards and vineyards that border Okanagan Lake.

PRIMARY TRAIL TYPE: CROSS-COUNTRY & DOWNHILL

Campbell Mountain

The go-to area for the new mountain biker, with a great network of short and long trails with by-passable features. Located just 10 minutes from Downtown Penticton, nearly all the trails in this network are suitable for beginners and intermediates.

PRIMARY TRAIL TYPE: CROSS-COUNTRY

Skaha Bluffs

This Provincial Park offers a variety of recreation opportunities including hiking, rock climbing and wildlife viewing. The distinctive terrain features of the bluffs along with the Gilles Creek corridor provides incredible scenery and some technical sections. Rock Ovens is a must ride trail for experienced riders.

PRIMARY TRAIL TYPE: CROSS-COUNTRY