Not a skier or boarder…..don’t want to do the cross country thing? Well snowshoeing is your answer for wintery fun! From a casual stroll not far off the beaten path to all day epics, there is certainly a route for anyone!
Telemark Nordic Center – Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Area – West Kelowna
- K9 Trail – There is the free (donations greatly accepted) trail that is a multi use trail and a great starter trail if you have never done snowshoeing or want a quick little lap. It is multi use so skiers, hikers and snowshoers can enjoy this trail. Your furry friend is also welcome to join you on this one!! (please be a responsible pet owner and clean up after them…even if it’s winter.)
- Pay Per Use trails – They also have a variety of loop trails ranging from a few Km’s to 8-10km+ longer routes. I took my mom and dad on the shorter trails and they had a great time and didn’t totally tire them out too much and were looking forward to the next time!
- Telemark Trail Map
Angel Springs – Via June Springs Rd – Kelowna
- This is a fun 3.5km One Way Interpretive trail. Follow the fun info signs for a great snowshoe. If there is fresh snow you may have to dust em off and read the fun facts about this trail. Make your way through a old fire guard that was created during the 2003 Okanagan Mountain Park Fire, and learn about the flora and fauna along the way. The springs at the end were a hot spring at one time, but I would call it a luke warm to cool spring now..lol. Depending on temperature and snow coverage it may be covered up! Keep an eye out for the wood signs in the trees.
- It can have some challenging hills, so come prepared and dress in layers just in case you need to warm up or cool down.
- Vehicle Note: You might want to be cautious on this road depending on condition. An AWD or 4X4 may be needed, and please ensure you have emergency equipment just in case. (blanket, shovel, chains etc)
- June Springs Location and Information
Pincushion Mountain – Peachland
- Normally a must do for any avid hiker in the summer, if you are brave enough, you can tackle it in the winter. Make sure you have good crampons on your snowshoes, and heel lifters may help on this one a bit. (though I didn’t have them…and was good)
- This is a shorter but a bit of a grind in the winter. Take on the challenge and if there is good snowfall and hasn’t been tracked down too much could be a fun one, with the great views!
- Trail Description and Map
Kelowna Nordic and Snowshoe Club
- This area probably has the most selection for snowshoe trails in the Kelowna area, and there are multiple routes and distances to do! There are warming huts as well, and you could plan your route around one of those and take a fun lunch to break up your day!
- They have a unique trail labeling system so you should always stay on track!
- Your furry friends are allowed on the trails just not in the cabins. (please pick up after them too :))
- This is paid trail, so please put the fee in the box or buy your ticket.
- Kelowna Nordic Snowshoe Map
Other areas that would be worth checking out, but would be totally depending on snow depth would be: A quick internet search can give you directions to these areas.
- Big White Ski Resort – Great trails, tours available and a great way to spend the day up at the mountain. This is a paid area, and please grab your trail ticket from the main lodge. Trail and Pass Info HERE.
- Bear Creek Park – Across from Bear Creek Provincial Park Camping area
- Spion Kop – Lake Country. Might be dependent of snow in the valley.
- Goats Peak – A New Park just past the Coquihalla Connector overpass.
- Kettle Valley Rail Bed – Great if you want to get above the clouds! It’s flat, but on a clear day would be amazing views! Access Via June Springs Rd or the Myra Forest Service Rd (FSR), both off of McCulloch Rd. (Might need a good AWD vehicle or 4×4 Truck)
Vernon
- Sovereign Lakes Cross Country Ski Areas – Amazing trail network with cabins as well. Plan your adventure. Dogs are allowed only on certain trails and must be registered with the lodge. More info Maps and Tickets Prices HERE.
- Silver Star Mountain Resort – Another fun one just up the road from Sovereign Lakes. Ticket, Tours and Info Here.
- Predator Ridge – 12kms of trails with some amazing views. Apres eats and drinks available and rentals too. Trails Map and Tickets
- BX Falls – Beautiful Hike and area with some old growth forest type feel. Info Here
Overall, any hiking trail could be a snowshoe trail, keep your eye out on the weather and if there fresh snow, go and tackle it and have fun. If ya need a set, let us know and we can set you up! 250 768-0799.
-Craig