Golf Courses
The Harvest Golf Club
Kelowna
THINGS TO DO · KELOWNA & WEST KELOWNA
Trade city pavement for alpine trails, deep lakes, and mountain bike singletrack in this four-season valley.
80 outdoor adventures · Updated October 2026Outdoor guide · Go Kelowna
Photo: Sanjiv Save · Shannon Lake Golf Course via Google
01AT A GLANCE
The details that matter.
The Okanagan Valley delivers year-round recreation, shifting from summer days paddling a 135-kilometre lake to winter afternoons skiing deep powder at Big White. You can hike steep tracks up Knox Mountain, cycle historic railway trestles, or golf at championship courses like The Harvest.
- Okanagan Lake
- 135 km long
- Golf Season
- March to October
- Myra Canyon
- 18 Trestle Bridges
- Okanagan Rail Trail
- 50 km pathway
01LOCAL PICKS
Golf with a view
Championship courses between the vineyards and the lake.
Golf Courses
The Okanagan Golf Club - Bear and Quail
Kelowna
Golf Courses
Black Mountain Golf Club
Kelowna
Golf Courses
Shannon Lake Golf Course
West Kelowna
Golf Courses
Sunset Ranch Golf & Country Club
Kelowna
Golf Courses
Shadow Ridge Golf Club
Kelowna
Golf Courses
Kelowna Springs Golf Club
Kelowna
Golf Courses
Mission Creek Golf Club
Kelowna
Golf Courses
The Pinnacle Course at Gallagher's Canyon
Kelowna
Golf Courses
Two Eagles Golf Course & Academy
West Kelowna
Golf Courses
Kelowna Golf & Country Club
Kelowna
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•ALSO WORTH A LOOK
Wheels & winter
Bike rentals, e-bike tours, trail shops and the ski hill.
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•LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Four Seasons in the Okanagan
Sun-baked pine forests and deep freshwater lakes define the landscape here. The transition from summer heat to heavy winter snow dictates exactly how locals spend their weekends.
The short answer
Start by hiking the Apex Trail at Knox Mountain Park for an immediate view of the valley. Next, rent a bike to ride the 18 wooden trestle bridges at Myra Canyon, then cool off by paddleboarding the calm morning waters of Okanagan Lake.
01On Foot
Hiking Trails
The region's hiking paths wind from easy lakeside gravel to steep summits. A local favourite, Knox Mountain Park, rises directly from the north end of town, giving hikers clear views of the water from the Apex Trail. For a flat, accessible walk, the Mission Creek Greenway Regional Park follows the water and makes a great spot to watch salmon spawn in the fall.
Across the bridge, Rose Valley Regional Park has a network of dirt tracks overlooking the reservoir. Bear Creek Provincial Park has a popular loop climbing a canyon alongside a series of small waterfalls. For a more rugged hike, the paths at Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park (Myra Canyon) extend past the wooden trestles into deep forested terrain.
To walk along the water without a steep climb, head to Paul's Tomb at the base of Knox Mountain. Down the highway in Peachland, Hardy Falls Regional Park is a short, flat stroll ending at a waterfall. Higher elevations hold snow well into spring, so pack appropriately. Always carry water during the hot, dry summers.
Local tips
- Start early in July and August to beat the midday heat.
- Watch for trail signs indicating off-leash dog areas.
- Check for ticks from spring through fall in tall grass.
- Some parks, like Bear Creek Provincial Park, require a day-use pass in peak season.
02On Two Wheels
Rail Trails and Trestles
Two major cycling routes cut through the valley, suiting riders of all ages. The Okanagan Rail Trail is a 50-kilometre multi-use pathway connecting the downtown core to Vernon, tracing the shores of Wood and Kalamalka Lakes. The grade stays gentle along the former CN Rail line, making it an easy ride for families or those on e-bikes. You can access the path from several points, including right near Waterfront Park.
Up in the hills, the Kettle Valley Rail Trail at Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park (Myra Canyon) takes riders across 18 restored wooden trestle bridges and through two tunnels. The 24-kilometre round-trip is nearly flat and looks down over the canyon floor. You can bring your own bike or rent one at the Myra Station parking lot from May to October.
Both trails have hard-packed gravel surfaces suitable for hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes. The Okanagan Rail Trail stays open year-round for walking and fat biking, though snow covers some sections in winter. The Myra Canyon trail also welcomes winter visitors on snowshoes and fat bikes.
Local tips
- Book bike rentals for Myra Canyon in advance on summer weekends.
- Drive carefully on the gravel forest service road leading up to Myra Canyon.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen since shade is rare on both routes.
- E-bikes are allowed on both the Okanagan Rail Trail and at Myra Canyon.
03The Thrill
Mountain Biking
The surrounding hillsides hold hundreds of kilometres of singletrack. The Crawford trails in Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park have the most extensive network, mixing flowing cross-country routes with technical, rocky descents. Just minutes from downtown, Knox Mountain Park gives riders a chance for quick laps with challenging climbs and fast descents overlooking the water.
On the west side of the lake, the Smith Creek Trail System is a local favourite. It has fast, flowing downhill runs built mostly for intermediate and advanced riders. Nearby, Rose Valley Regional Park mixes cross-country trails winding through an arid, rocky landscape. Passionate local riders build and maintain these networks, so always ride within your limits and respect the terrain.
For a different ride, the trails near Crawford Falls lead through heavy timber to the top of a waterfall. The dirt season usually runs from April to October, depending on snowmelt. Local shops like Smith Creek Cycle can update you on current trail conditions. For lift-accessed downhill laps, Big White Ski Resort opens its bike park during the summer.
Local tips
- Check trail conditions on apps like Trailforks before riding after heavy rain.
- Keep an eye out for bears and other wildlife on remote tracks.
- Uphill and downhill riders share many paths, so yield appropriately.
- Support local trail builders by donating to MTBco (Mountain Bikers of the Central Okanagan).
04On the Water
Paddling and Boating
Summer life here revolves around the water. Okanagan Lake stretches 135 kilometres down the valley, acting as a massive playground for water sports. Calm mornings suit stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. You can launch your board from public beaches at Waterfront Park, Cedar Creek Park, and Bertram Creek Regional Park.
Boating, waterskiing, and wake-surfing take over in the afternoons. You can rent speedboats or pontoon boats from marinas up and down the shoreline. The Kelowna Downtown Marina and Kelowna Yacht Club act as central hubs for boating activity right downtown. Okanagan Lake Boat Rentals and Kelowna Boat Rentals have a wide range of vessels available.
Paddling keeps things quiet along the shoreline. The Kelowna Paddle Centre is a great resource for outrigger canoe and kayak enthusiasts. Many local businesses, like Lakefront Sports Centre Ltd, rent equipment by the hour right on the beach. The lake stays busy with activity from May through September.
Local tips
- The lake gets choppy in the afternoon wind, so check the forecast before paddling.
- You need a Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Card to drive any motorized boat.
- Reserve boat rentals months in advance for long weekends in July and August.
- Head to the quieter bays south of the bridge for less boat traffic.
05On the Green
Championship Golf Courses
With a long, dry season stretching from March to late October, the valley is a major golf destination. You will find dozens of courses ranging from challenging championship layouts to relaxed, scenic tracks. Many fairways cut directly into the hillsides, creating dramatic elevation changes and clear views of the lake.
The Harvest Golf Club sits right in the middle of a working apple orchard, giving players a distinct agricultural backdrop. The Okanagan Golf Club has two distinct 18-hole courses: the challenging, Nicklaus-designed Bear and the scenic Quail. Across the bridge, Shannon Lake Golf Course is known for its signature 8th hole, played directly alongside the water.
Gallagher's Canyon Golf & Country Club has a classic layout that plays along the edge of a deep, rocky canyon. The Black Mountain Golf Club has a signature island green that tests your accuracy. The variety and quality of the greens make this area a staple for multi-day golf trips.
Local tips
- Book tee times weeks in advance for summer weekends.
- Twilight rates often give the best value during peak season.
- Most clubhouses have large patios for a post-round meal.
- The fall season brings cooler temperatures and less crowded fairways.
06In the Snow
Skiing and Snowshoeing
When the snow hits, the outdoor scene shifts to the mountains. Just an hour's drive from downtown, Big White Ski Resort is known for its light, dry powder and family-friendly village. With an average annual snowfall of 7.5 metres, the mountain has consistent conditions for skiing and snowboarding all winter long.
You don't have to strap on skis to enjoy the snow. Snowshoeing is an easy way to walk through the quiet, frozen landscape. Many summer hiking areas turn into popular snowshoeing spots. Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park is a great winter destination, letting you walk across the historic trestle bridges covered in deep snow. The flat railway grade makes it an easy trek.
Closer to town, the Telemark Nordic Club has dedicated, groomed snowshoe trails. Many regional parks, such as Rose Valley Regional Park, also have trails that look completely different after a fresh snowfall. It is a peaceful way to get outside during the colder months.
Local tips
- Highway 33 to Big White requires winter tires by law from October 1 to April 30.
- Check the avalanche forecast if you plan to snowshoe in backcountry areas.
- Rent snowshoes from local sports shops before driving up the mountain.
- Dress in breathable layers to avoid sweating while snowshoeing.
Big White Ski ResortKnox Mountain ParkWaterfront ParkMission Creek Regional ParkBear Creek Provincial ParkKelowna Downtown MarinaMyra-Bellevue Provincial Park (Myra Canyon)Okanagan Lake Boat RentalsThe Harvest Golf ClubKaloya Regional ParkKelowna Yacht ClubBeasley ParkLakeside Eco-SportsMill Creek Regional ParkCedar Creek ParkThe Okanagan Golf Club - Bear and QuailBlack Mountain Golf ClubBertram Creek Regional ParkLakefront Sports Centre LtdKelowna Boat RentalsPritchard ParkShannon Lake Golf CourseCrawford FallsScenic Canyon Regional Park
•Insider Access
Let a local take you there.
Tours, rentals, shops and stays run by Kelowna locals, all bookable from their profiles.
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•THE FULL LIST
All 80 outdoor adventures.
Search by name, narrow by type or community, and sort by the most-reviewed or highest-rated. Every card opens a full profile.
See them on the map80 places
Ski ResortsBig White Ski ResortSki Resort in Kelowna.★ 4.7 (5,080) · KelownaHiking TrailsKnox Mountain ParkKelowna's largest natural area park, offering extensive hiking and biking trails with sweeping panoramic views of the city and Okanagan Lake.★ 4.7 (2,976) · KelownaOutdoor & RecreationWaterfront ParkWaterfront Park is Kelowna's vibrant downtown oasis, offering panoramic lake views, a scenic boardwalk, and a hub for recreation and events.★ 4.7 (2,683) · Kelowna
Hiking TrailsMission Creek Regional ParkA nature-filled urban oasis with winding trails, a Kokanee salmon spawning channel, and an environmental education centre for all ages.★ 4.7 (2,027) · Kelowna
Outdoor & RecreationBear Creek Provincial ParkBear Creek Provincial Park is a popular basecamp for lakeside camping, sandy beaches, and hiking trails on Okanagan Lake's west shore.★ 4.6 (1,294) · KelownaBoat Rentals & MarinasKelowna Downtown MarinaKelowna Downtown Marina is your central hub for boat and jet ski rentals, moorage, and lakeside amenities, ideal for exploring Okanagan Lake from the heart of the city.★ 4.4 (979) · Kelowna
Hiking TrailsMyra-Bellevue Provincial Park (Myra Canyon)Experience the historic Myra Canyon Trestles, a breathtaking section of the Kettle Valley Railway, perfect for cycling and hiking with stunning views.★ 4.8 (938) · Kelowna
Boat Rentals & MarinasOkanagan Lake Boat RentalsOkanagan Lake Boat Rentals, operating from the Hotel Eldorado Marina, offers a diverse fleet for watersports and cruising, perfect for memorable lake adventures.★ 4.8 (858) · KelownaGolf CoursesThe Harvest Golf ClubGolf Course in Kelowna.★ 4.7 (791) · Kelowna
Outdoor & RecreationKaloya Regional ParkPark in Lake Country.★ 4.7 (764) · Lake Country
Boat Rentals & MarinasKelowna Yacht ClubKelowna Yacht Club, Canada's largest freshwater marina, offers premier moorage, upscale dining, and rentals for members, providing a vibrant lakeside lifestyle in downtown Kelowna.★ 4.5 (700) · Kelowna
Outdoor & RecreationBeasley ParkPark in Lake Country.★ 4.5 (641) · Lake Country•STORIES
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•FAQ
Good to know
Summer is the prime season for lake activities, while fall brings ideal temperatures for hiking and cycling. Winter is strictly for skiing at Big White, and spring is a great time to golf while the orchards bloom.
