The 10 Best Okanagan Golf Courses, With Options For Families
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The Okanagan Valley is home to some of the most scenic and carefully manicured golf courses in Canada. Enthusiasts of the sport have been visiting the Okanagan’s executive and championship-style golf courses for years, enjoying the early start to the season, long daylight hours, late summer weather, and typically dry autumns.
From the centrally located Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre, golfers have the luxury of teeing off at one of 30 courses within a 2-hour drive. There are options for every skill level and courses of every variety in the Okanagan — links, park and mountain tracks, and desert-style.
We’ve put together this guide for visitors to the South Okanagan with information on the 10 Best Golf Courses near Penticton, including a few 9-hole options that are great for families and golfers who are new to the sport.
Penticton Golf & Country Club
4 minutes or 1.5km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, 18-Hole
Course Rating (from Silver Tees): M-67.3 / W-72.7
Located alongside the river channel in the heart of Penticton, this championship-sized golf course offers a challenge for those after it, or a relaxing day in the Okanagan sunshine for intermediate and casual golfers. A mix of ponderosa pines and weeping willows line the narrow fairways of this scenic course, which is designed with many technical features including protective green-side bunkers and water hazards on 12 of the 18 holes. Penticton Golf & Country Club perfectly mixes a rewarding golf experience with the natural beauty of the Okanagan region.
Pine Hills Golf Club
10 minutes or 5.8km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, Executive 9-Hole
Course Rating: N/A
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing round of golf with your family, or if you’re just testing out your swing, Pine Hills is a short and casual golf course with fantastic views of Okanagan Lake. Well-manicured grass and greens on this executive par-3 course makes a fun day for beginner golfers and a great short-game tune-up for more experienced players. This golf course also offers limited RV parking for families on road trips through the Okanagan Valley.
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Such a cool view of 6 Nicklaus. We can’t wait to have you back out enjoying our courses!
Skaha Meadows
12 minutes or 7.8km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, Executive 9-hole
Course Rating: N/A
The Skaha Meadows 9-hole gives golfers a quick taste of the Okanagan experience. This course is open year-round (weather permitting), and has a variety of par 3s and 4s, and a single par 5, making it a great place to warm up your swing before visiting a full-length championship golf club. With close access to the beautiful beaches next to Skaha Lake, many visitors to Penticton plan to split their day between golfing at Skaha Meadows, and then relaxing lakeside with their family.
Summerland Golf Course
21 minutes or 18.6km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Semi-Private, 18-Hole
Course Rating (from White Tees): M-69.9 / W-76.1
This semi-private golf course will challenge golfers of all abilities. The front nine of Summerland Golf Course plays as a hybrid links and park course, with wide, flat fairways and technical shots over green-side bunkers. The back nine quickly transitions into rolling hills and dramatic elevation changes, with some holes intimidatingly close to the massive Trout Creek Canyon. The 500+ yard 18th hole can make or break your round. An elevated tee box means long drivers have a chance to reach this green in two, but risk being punished for not shooting straight.
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The PGA Tour is back! Photo via Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images. . . . . #pga #pgatour #pgagolf
St. Andrews By The Lake
23 minutes or 21km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, Executive 9-Hole
Course Rating: 30.4
An executive 9-hole course with lakefront views and challenging pin positions, St. Andrews By The Lake is a great place to relax on the course and hone-in the short game. The signature 7th hole is a 166-yard par 3, featuring an island green that will test your accuracy off the tee box. Just south of Skaha Lake, this course offers one of the best twilight golf rates in the Okanagan Valley, making it a great choice for a sunset round of golf with friends and family.
Nk’mip Canyon Desert Golf Course
36 minutes or 39.8km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, 18-Hole
Course Rating (from White Tees): M-67.4 / W-74
Nk’mip (pronounced ‘Inkameep’) is a full-length championship desert-style golf course with a rich history in the Okanagan area. You’ll be driving golf balls off the tee beside lush vineyards and incredible views of Tuc-el-nuit Lake. Check out these aerial recordings to get a sense of just how stunning this course is. The Nk’mip Canyon Desert Golf Course offers visitors two unique Okanagan experiences in one: you can enjoy a round of golf, and follow it up with a glass of wine from the closely located Nk’mip Cellars winery, served at the clubhouse.
Two Eagles Golf Club & Academy
41 minutes or 50.8km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, 18-Hole
Course Rating (from White Tees): M-62.6 / W-65.8
A short drive passed Kelowna on Highway 97, Westbank’s Two Eagles Golf Club & Academy is an enjoyable course for golfers of all abilities. Take in amazing views of Okanagan Lake while you swing and putt your way through this premium Kelowna golf course. With an entire golf academy area, including a driving range, coaches, and private and group programs, golfers can take lessons on-site to improve their scores. More details on golf lessons are available on the Two Eagles Golf Club & Academy website.
Shannon Lake Golf Course
43 minutes or 52.6km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, 18-Hole
Course Rating (from White Tees): M-67.7 / W-73.0
If you’re planning to golf in Kelowna, Shannon Lake Golf Course is an exceptional choice for beginners to intermediate-experience golfers. Tree-lined fairways favour golfers that hit straight off the tee. This cleverly designed course also incorporates the scenic Shannon Lake as a water hazard on its signature 17th hole, adding a little extra challenge before you round the final turn toward the clubhouse. We recommend that more experienced golfers play this course from a slightly further tee position than usual, as the yardage comes in at just 5681 from the whites.
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Fairview Mountain Golf Club
44 minutes or 46.1km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, 18-Hole
Course Rating (from White Tees): M-67.7 / W-73.5
One of British Columbia’s premier golf destinations, Fairview Mountain Golf Club is a must-play for the most avid golfers visiting Oliver, B.C. and the Okanagan region. This golf club is routinely mentioned in top-100 lists for the best golf courses in Canada, and it’s tough to find an alternative option with the same pristine conditions for the same reasonable price. A cart-mandatory course, each round at Fairview Mountain is hallmarked by spectacular vistas of the Okanagan Valley and Lake, making for an unforgettable golfing experience (no matter what your score is).
Osoyoos Golf Club
60 minutes or 65.8km from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre
Type: Public, 18-Hole
Course Ratings (from Silver/White Tees):
Desert Gold: M-67.1 / W-73.2 Park Meadows: M-67.5 / W-74.5
With two 18-hole options at the Osoyoos Golf Club, you can challenge yourself on either a cart-mandatory desert-style golf course, or a walkable park course with rolling hills and lush scenery around every turn. Both tracks have tee-off locations suitable for novice to pro-level golfers, making this club an ideal choice for those brave enough to double-down on their South Okanagan golf trip.
Book Your Golf Trip in the Okanagan Today
With social distancing rules remaining in place for the foreseeable future, the popularity of golf in British Columbia has never been greater. Whether you’re honing your golf abilities or just starting to get into the activity, Okanagan is an oasis for every level of golfer.
Why not take that golf trip you’ve always talked about? There’s never been a better time to play a round in the Okanagan Valley. Especially when you can take advantage of reduced guestroom rates for group bookings of 6 or more at Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre. To book, contact Susan Selles at susan.selles@rpbhotels.com or call (250) 493-9757. Minimum of 6 guest rooms per night. Seasonal offer subject to availability.
Penticton’s Best Biking Trails For Every Skill Level
Offers mentioned herein are valid at the time of publication unless otherwise mentioned. For our most recent offers and promotions, please visit our latest available offers, please visit our Deals page.
Deciding what to do during your vacation to Penticton?
From easy day trips on bike paths that end up at tasty wineries or beautiful beaches, to mountain biking trails that deliver excitement and unbeatable scenery, Penticton and the surrounding Okanagan region is well known for being a top cycling destination in British Columbia.
Get to know the best cycling trails surrounding Penticton. We’ve put together this guide to help any level of cycler find bike paths, mountain trails, bike rental and gear shops, and general information about what to expect when you hit the streets of Penticton on a bike.
Select a category below to skip ahead to the information you want to see:
Road Biking
The city of Penticton has built a certified accessible route known as the Penticton Creek Pathway, which offers a 1.8km stretch of bike path that’s suitable for cyclists of any skill level. The city of Penticton put together a handy Google Map that marks this bike path along with attractions, dining, and restrooms en route. Save this map to your device and hit the road for a fun day of cycling with friends and family.
One of the most popular road biking paths in Penticton is the lake-to-lake route, from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake Park. This bike route takes approximately 25 minutes to complete, and riders can simply follow Main Street south the entire way, with the option of taking Skaha Lake Road southbound when it intersects with Main St.
Note that there will be some vehicle traffic along this local trail, however, the wide road makes for a safe and enjoyable bicycle ride through the city centre with a rewarding destination on either side. We recommend bringing your bathing suit and packing a picnic with fresh fruits and veggies from a Penticton farmer’s market!
Recreational Cycling
The most popular choice for recreational cycling is the famous Kettle Valley Railway Trail. This 650km stretch of railway track was once Western Canada’s longest rail network, connecting Hope to Castlegar. Now, cyclists can enjoy riding along dirt and gravel pathways for their preferred distance of the trail. There are a few steep hills to start on the Penticton section of this trail, but overall the trail is rated easy to moderate for recreational cyclists.
Penticton marks the start of the Carmi Subdivision of the Kettle Valley Railway Trail, which includes the notable Myra Canyon. The most well-known biking path on the KVR for visitors to Penticton is the Naramata Section, which you can easily get to by following the trail just outside of Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre toward signs for Naramata.
A 10km bike ride up to the Naramata Bench starts your day of cycling, where you can expect to see vineyards, patios, and stunning views of Okanagan Lake. Many recreational cyclers in Penticton will bike to the Naramata community, about 16km away from the KVR intersection in front of Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre (an approx. 1 ½ hour ride).
Once in Naramata, you can stop to visit boutique stores or have lunch at a café. Then, decide whether to continue biking along the KVR to attractions such as Little Tunnel or Chute Lake, or simply turn around and enjoy the scenic views en route back to Penticton.If you want to get off the beaten path, speak with our front desk staff at Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre for more information about recreational cycling trails in Penticton, or visit the Penticton Visitor Centre website for a look at updated bicycle trail maps in the region.
Mountain Biking
Okanagan mountain biking trails are some of the best in Canada. There are a number of trails suited for beginners to expert level mountain bikers, and all of them are within a 30 minute drive of Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre. Some of the best Mountain Biking Trails near Penticton are located in the Three Blind Mice biking area, including:
- Climb This Way — a Green-rated, .75km narrow trail that climbs up an old cow highway to challenge bikers with a rewarding view at the top.
- Tsweet Tsue “Sweet Sue” — a Blue-rated narrow dirt pathway which meanders through twists and turns into gully near Okanagan Lake.
- High Roller — a Black Diamond-rated trail with man-made boardwalks and rock rolls that expert mountain bikers visit for a thrilling ride.
For even more trails including pictures, trail types, maps, difficulty ratings, and all the information you need about the best mountain biking trails surrounding Penticton, we recommend viewing the Trailforks Penticton Region website.
Other popular Mountain Biking Destinations that you should put on your itinerary include the Campbell Mountain mountain biking region, Wiltse, and Skaha Bluffs, all kept up to date with the latest information by the Trailforks user community.
BMX Biking at Munson Mountain
Looking for a BMX biking park? Munson Mountain, located only a 6-minute drive from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre, has dirt tracks for BMX bikers, as well as hosts races and competitions which you can watch. Check out the Penticton BMX website for information on upcoming events and BMX park availability.
Bike Rental, Gear, and Tune-Up Shops
If you need to rent a bike, tighten a chain, fix your brakes or just inflate a tire, Penticton has a number of bicycle rental and repair shops located throughout the city. Our top choices for bicycle shops in Penticton and the surrounding region are linked below, including distances from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.
- Freedom Bike Shop (1.4km, ~10 mins walk from The Resort): offers maintenance and repairs, mountain and road bicycle rentals, trade-ins and bike purchases, parts and accessories. Staff are knowledgeable and friendly, a great resource for mountain biking trails and conditions in the Okanagan. Ask them about scheduling a biking tour in Penticton and the Okanagan Valley (*may have limited availability due to COVID-19).
- Penticton Bike Rentals (1.4km, ~10 mins walk from The Resort): offers road and mountain bicycle rentals. You can also rent two, four, or six-person bicycles with an overhead canopy for the unique experience of group biking with friends and family around the city of Penticton. Penticton Bike Rentals also provides scooter, paddle board, and kayak rentals for those days when your legs need a break!
- Sun n' Sup (in Naramata, 14.8km ~20 minutes drive from the Resort): offers bike rentals, kayak rentals, and stand up paddle board rentals. Sun n’ Sup rents bicycles that are ideal for easy biking trails such as the Kettle Valley Railway Trail, but does not offer single-track mountain bikes rentals at this time. Note that this vendor only takes debit and cash — no credit cards.
E-Bike Rentals In Penticton
The next era of biking has arrived in Penticton. E-Bike rentals are now available for cyclists who want a little assistance as they traverse the hills and pathways surrounding the region.
Pedego Electric Bikes opened its first Penticton Location on July 1, 2020, offering electric bike sales and rentals available by the hour, day, and week. Pedego is conveniently located at 37 Backstreet Boulevard, downtown Penticton, just two blocks away from Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.
Visit Pedego’s Penticton branch online to find the most up to date information on hours, rentals, and rates for e-bikes in Penticton.
Bicycles and Transit in The Okanagan
Penticton city busses are equipped with bike racks that can carry up to two bicycles at a time. If you’ve never used a city bus bike rack, just ask the bus driver to help you load your bicycle safely. Click here to see Penticton bus service times, schedules, and routes, or visit the BC Transit website to learn more about using bike racks on busses in the South Okanagan Similkameen region.
Courtesy Taxi and Klassic Kabs in Penticton can also accommodate bicycles in their vehicles. Contact them today to book a cab for you and your bike.
If you’re in the Naramata region, contact The Naramata Taxi Co.
What to Do After Your Bike Trip
Make sure to fuel up after a long day of biking in the Penticton sunshine! The Barking Parrot Bar is a popular bar and patio serving cool drinks and hot food right next to Okanagan Lake. For family dining, The Hooded Merganser has delicious food made with local organic Okanagan ingredients. Both establishments are conveniently located steps away from your room when you book directly with Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.
Booking a room at our top-rated Penticton resort also gives you access to exclusive amenities, including a private beach where you can relax and rest up your muscles before embarking on your next great Penticton biking adventure. Stay up to date with news and events by following Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre on Facebook and Instagram.
Discover Penticton, British Columbia: Seattle to Penticton in under 6 hours
Travelling to Penticton is convenient from nearly anywhere in Washington State, with a drive time of approximately five and half hours from Seattle, and daily flights that run under an hour and a half.
Can’t wait that long to get here? Take a flight directly from Seattle to the Kelowna airport, and enjoy a scenic 50-minute drive around Okanagan lake. Total travel time: 2 hours.
To help our continental companions discover the heart of the Okanagan, we’ve put together this handy itinerary describing an affordable and rewarding adventure that arrives at the luxurious accommodations of Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.
Driving to Penticton: The Scenic Route
Penticton is the destination but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy the journey. Our proposed itinerary is slightly longer than 6 hours (by 20 minutes) but it’s filled with scenic views and enjoyable stops along the way.
What to see on your drive from Seattle and Penticton
First stop: Leavenworth — Get a taste of European-design with buildings & food that will make you believe you’ve arrived at the Alps. Washington’s Bavarian-style village is nestled in the Cascade Mountains and sits on the often rapid Wenatchee River. Keep an eye out for eagles and osprey soaring above!
Next up: Brewster and Lake Pateros — Fed from the Columbia River, Lake Pateros is a perfect spot (just over half way) to stretch, grab a coffee, or take a quick dip in the cool waters.
Getting to the border: what to expect — From Brewster and Lake Pateros, you can drive up highway 97 through scenic farmlands and vineyards until arriving at the border of the USA and Canada. Have a friendly chat with the Canadian border agent as you pass through — the crossing is open 24-hours and rarely has a wait time over 15 minutes.
Penticton: one hour to go — Welcome to Canada! You only have a short distance to go. Drive passed South Okanagan grasslands, through the quaint town of Oliver, and alongside stunning Skaha Lake until arriving at the front doors of your luxurious accommodations, Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre.
No matter what your preferred method of travel is, Penticton is just a short trip away.
After arriving, it’s important that you know how to make the most of your time — even if it’s on a shoestring budget. Check out our next post covering Penticton’s best free activities to learn what to do. After, of course, you’ve unpacked your luggage and spent a few hours relaxing by the lake.
13 things you didn’t know about Penticton Lakeside Resort
We sat down with Penticton Lakeside Resort’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Barb Haynes, to get the scoop on all things Penticton. As a Penticton resident for the past 23 years, Barb knows a thing or two about this famous Okanagan town- and some of its best kept secrets too!
Read on to discover them all and how to make the most of your trip to the Okanagan:
How is the Penticton Lakeside Resort unique from other hotels in the Okanagan?
Barb: We’re located on the south shore of the Okanagan Lake and we’re the only accommodation in Penticton with a private beach for its guests! We’re full service and offer great dining options with weekly entertainment on our patio.
I think one of the most significant characteristics of the hotel is that it anchors the downtown core on its north end. You can walk to just about anything and the incredibly popular farmer’s market is right outside our front door.
What are some of the best features of the resort?
Our private beach for sure…it offers full service with drinks and food, towels, beach chairs and lots of sun! All our restaurants have patios that look out onto the lake.
I think one of the most unique features of our restaurant, the Hooded Merganser, is that it’s supplied with fresh produce, in season, from our very own Valley View Farm. Our general manager and his family live at the farm and our farm manager delivers food daily to the Hood. We also use all of our own herbs grown fresh here in the gardens at the hotel.
Speaking of food...what is your favourite dish at the Hooded Merganser restaurant?
The grilled lamb chops! The Hooded Merganser does an amazing job of them and sometimes when you order lamb at a restaurant it doesn’t live up to your expectations…at the Hooded Merganser it always does for me.
What’s something cool about Penticton that visitors may not know about?
Our community was established as an agricultural area providing fruits and produce to our province in the early years. Much was shipped via rail on the Kettle Valley train system. With the changes in access to food internationally and the train system disappearing, Penticton has seen a reduction in its orchards. Vineyards have been developed creating a burgeoning wine industry that is unique to our area. We feature the small to mid-sized wineries where you can enjoy a glass, meet the winemaker and tour a vineyard all in easy access. We have also developed an amazing farm-to-table industry, again highlighting the incredible growing season we experience here in the South Okanagan.
The Kettle Valley Rail system is being redeveloped into a major tourism attraction where folks can ride their bikes from Hope to Christina Lake, and from Rock Creek to Vernon. Penticton is a stop along the way and we’re looking forward to hosting our travellers…think west coast trail on bikes!
What is the best part of your position as Director of Sales & Marketing?
I would say working with the amazing team here at the resort and our external contractors. I love the team approach and the great pool of both skills and ideas that come to the table when you work together. I also really like to help create vision and then develop the path to get there.
What’s a typical day like for you?
Sometimes it can be crazy! We have such a diverse line of products, we are always working to stay ahead of the seasons. So, sometimes in the heat of summer we’re planning for the upcoming winter season and vice versa. My day is often filled with staying current on local news, keeping up to date on the daily hotel activities…who are we hosting, what’s happening…and dreaming of new ideas to sell our resort and its amenities!
What is your favourite part of the hotel?
I would say the patios because of the views, the weather, the buzz of activity…it feels like you’re away on vacation every day.
When do you recommend coming to visit Penticton Lakeside Resort, and why?
Just about anytime! In the summer, we see lots of families and folks participating in a variety of events. Spring, summer and fall bring groups of friends looking to explore our wine region and the winter season attracts snowbirds from the prairie provinces looking to escape the cold…our temperatures are much milder! We also have a robust convention season in our shoulder periods and we are already booking into 2017 for destination weddings.
What’s something exciting guests have to look forward to in the coming year at Penticton Lakeside Resort?
The new accommodation wing that we are currently constructing. It will add 70 rooms to our inventory where the majority of rooms will have a lakeview. All will be king bedrooms and suites with a very contemporary design and wood construction. It is a beautiful building. One of our local businesses, Structurlam, is a key partner in supplying their product to us. Their products have won several architectural design awards and are stunning! We are really looking forward to adding this new wing into our hotel.
What are the must sees of Penticton?
The lakes for sure. Penticton is one of the very few communities bordered by two lakes in the world! Our beaches are amazing! Our wine region…you can wander from winery to winery with views that will blow your mind and a quaintness that makes you feel instantly at home.
Our cycling routes…both road and off-road. We have put considerable resources into our routes to map and maintain them for cyclists. Our trail riding is excellent with wineries along the way for stops and our mountain biking is world-renowned.
In the summer, you gotta buy fruit…everyone does! And don’t forget to check our Skaha Bluffs, our climbing park. It, too, is really popular.
What do you consider the best beach in Penticton and the surrounding area?
Sudbury Beach on Skaha Lake was just recognized as one of the Top 10 Beaches in Canada. It’s a great swimming beach, warm water, lots of amenities and easy access to several of the campsites and motels. Okanagan Lake is famous for its restaurants and walkway…as well as its beach! Both shores are spectacular.
What made you decide to call Penticton home?
My husband and I wanted a complete lifestyle change! Our kids were young and we wanted a less crazy life for them. Both my husband and I grew up by the coast and the kids were born there. We made the change 23 years ago and have never looked back. Best decision ever!
Describe Penticton in 3 words:
Picturesque, laid-back, sumptuous – in its food, wine, beaches, land, views and water systems.
An American in Canada: Traveling to the Okanagan Valley (Part 2)
This is the 2nd part of our two part blog series, An American in Canada: Traveling in the Okanagan Valley.
The Okanagan Valley is the perfect vacation spot for Americans not wanting to waste precious time traveling to foreign destinations. What follows is the second part of my detailed look at what an American travelling the Okanagan Valley can expect, and why it’s the perfect choice for travelers from the USA.
What are some of the hidden gems of the Okanagan Valley? Here are a few that Americans will love most.
Hidden Okanagan Valley
Kettle Valley Railway and Myra Canyon trestles
The Kettle Valley Trail was once the region’s rail corridor, connecting industrial supplies and workers along with residents across the area. The railroad itself was in operation between 1915 and 1989, and the railroad was later transformed into a multi-use recreational trail.
This is a hidden gem in the valley because there is truly something for everyone along this unique landmark; the scenery and wildlife are unparalleled, the recreational options are fantastic, the historical and cultural significance equates to fascinating activities, and various amenities connected to local wineries are also within reach along this passageway.
Myra Canyon is a beautifully maintained portion of 18 giant trestle bridges and two tunnels along the former Kettle Valley Railway. Hiking (or biking) the 12 kilometer section with the trestles offers fantastic views over the lake. And if you’re a history buff, join a historical tour that describes the century of history surrounding these trestles and the railway, including the major fires in 2003 and the rebuilding that followed.
Penticton Farmer’s Market
The British Columbia Association of Farmers’ Markets named the Penticton Farmers’ Market 2015 Farmer’s Market of the Year in the medium-sized market category and it is the largest in the Okanagan Valley. This hidden treasure of the valley features hand-crafted goods from hundreds of vendors, so visit for antiques, clothing, collectables, food, furniture, jewelry and more, not to mention lots of great live entertainment for the whole family.
SS Sicamous
The SS Sicamous began its life in May of 1914 as a luxury passenger vessel serving isolated communities along the Okanagan Lake. By 1936 the SS Sicamous was retired to the Okanagan Landing Ship Yards where it sat in silence until 1951 when it was purchased for the princely sum of $1.00 by the City of Penticton.
In 1952 the Penticton Gyro Club, hoping to preserve the vessel for posterity, fitted the SS Sicamous with running water, electricity and restorations. Between the 1950s and the 1980s, the boat was home to all manner of businesses and organizations from restaurants to beauty salons, but by the late 80s it had fallen into disrepair.
The final restoration process began in earnest in 1988, and today the SS Sicamous is a stunning reminder of Canada’s cultural heritage. The vessel is home to a museum and a fun visit for visitors to the Okanagan Valley.
Canadian culture for Americans
You may think that Canadian culture is too similar to US culture to care about taking it in, but you couldn’t be further off the mark. The Okanagan Valley is filled with unique, fun cultural experiences Americans should try while in the area.
First nations
The Okanagan Valley is a multicultural region and is in fact named for some of its first nation citizens. As a visitor to the valley you will be able to experience the rich history of the indigenous peoples in the area through their clothing, food, jewelry, historical landmarks, medicine, traditional events and tools. Visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre near Osoyoos or the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park near Kamloops to take in evidence of the original peoples of the valley such as the circular pit houses or kekulis they inhabited.
European immigrants in the 1800s
Europeans arrived in British Columbia in the 1800s as Simon Fraser and others mapped and explored the area. Today’s Kamloops is the site of the North West Company’s original fur-trading post which was established in 1812; this was the first non-native settlement in the region. Once gold was discovered in the late 1850s, the population boom of the era began and immigrants arrived in huge waves. To experience the Okanagan Valley of the gold rush era, visit Historic Hat Creek Ranch for a taste of the old road house life.
Orchards and vineyards
Father Charles Pandosy was the first arrival in the Okanagan Valley to seize upon the idea of planting orchards and vineyards; he is responsible for planting the first in BC. He also founded the first school in the region and the first Roman Catholic mission in 1860; this mission near Kelowna has been beautifully restored and can be toured today.
The Doukhobor pacifist culture
Another cultural feature that is unique to the region is the Doukhobors. This pacifist sect originated in Russia but fled persecution in the early twentieth century. Settling near Grand Forks, the Doukhobors became a prominent cultural force in the Okanagan Valley between 1909 and 1913, a location perfect for farming and their goal of being self-sufficient. The cultural influence of the sect remains today, and as you travel locally you can visit the Doukhobor flour mill and the Hardy Mountain Douhkobor Village Historic Site—and stop for lunch in a local eatery and get some wonderful borscht and blintzes.
Ghost towns
After the gold rush, the railroad industry, and the coal mining towns of yesteryear all waned, various mining and industrial towns that dotted the Okanagan Valley dried up and turned into ghost towns. Take the Dewdney Trail beginning in Princeton to visit them, and don’t miss Blakeburn and Granite City.
The smallest city in Canada with a fascinating history
Greenwood, Canada is the smallest city in the country with only 625 citizens, and this alone makes it an interesting visit. But more than that, its historic importance should keep Greenwood on your list. Greenwood was the site of a World War II internment camp, and with approximately 1,000 internees flooding the tiny town during the war, the town changed significantly.
Many internees stayed in Greenwood permanently after the war, changing the face of the town forever and transforming it culturally in a totally unique way. The 1998 Oscar-nominated film Snow Falling on Cedars, which told the story of Japanese-American internees, was shot in Greenwood.
Napa 2.0: A new wine country experience for Americans
Napa Valley gets all of the press when it comes to wine country, but Okanagan Valley gives Napa a run for its money.
Okanagan Lake stretches through the valley for 70 miles between the Monashee and Cascade ranges. The valley’s walls rise around the lake, and they are almost completely covered with orchards and vineyards—the fruit basket of Canada. Visiting from spring, through summer and into the beginning of autumn, the air itself smells of fruit.
The entire Okanagan Valley is filled with small-batch wineries run by true aficionados who man the grounds and tasting rooms themselves—more than 200 of them. The wines in the region express the land and weather where they are produced.
Towards the northern end of Okanagan Valley the orchards are situated and the temperatures are cooler; these conditions produce fresh, crisp white wines. In the southern portion of the valley, where it is drier and warmer, more reds such as cabernet sauvignons and merlots are produced.
As has happened in California, Okanagan Valley growers have replaced native American vines with high-quality European varietals, further improving their wines. Local wineries such as Cedar Creek have even won multiple gold medals at prestigious American wine competitions like the Los Angeles County Fair Wines of the World.
One of the best ways to enjoy the wine and wineries of the Okanagan Valley is to take a cycle-to-winery tour. There are multiple versions of this kind of tour in the area, and all allow you to experience a huge range of products, take in breathtaking scenery, and finish with a gourmet meal in a stunning setting.
And the place where the Okanagan Valley clearly takes the lead over Napa Valley? Price and value. Okanagan Valley is a younger wine region and the prices reflect that. And with a current exchange rate of about 1 US dollar for every 1.26 Canadian, you’re saving a lot of money there, too.
Wineries to visit in the Okanagan Valley:
For a list of wineries: http://www.winebc.com/discover-bc/okanagan-valley
For some critics’ picks: http://www.winespectator.com/wct/region/rid/101
http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/canada/british-columbia/okanagan-wine-country
http://www.winesofcanada.com/featured_winery_visit2015.html
Nightlife, arts, and music to suit the American sense of taste and style
Arts and entertainment are widely expressed in the Okanagan Valley, and performing arts centres in the region share a common mission of artistic, creative, and cultural development. Locals, travelers, and artists from all over the world converge here for drumming and jam sessions, creative arts workshops; performances and Indigenous events.
Great events are showcased in the many fine Okanagan Valley theatres. A huge range of events come through the area, and between the South Okanagan Performing Arts Centre, Ballet Kelowna, the Many Hats Theatre, the Vernon Performing Arts Theatre, the Cleland Theatre, the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, the Sunshine Theatre Company and many other venues and troupes, there is almost always a range of nightlife and cultural options to suit almost anyone.
Penticton and Kelowna are the arts and nightlife hubs in the Okanagan Valley. The Soundstage Productions annual musical theatre show at the Penticton Lakeside Resort draws lots of excited crowds, as do the Penticton Art and Tumbleweed Galleries.
Downtown Penticton puts on the annual sunshine cabaret summer concert series in Gyro Park that includes the night market. The Barking Parrot Bar has a large patio just steps from Okanagan Lake and offers entertainment throughout the year including summer patio music. The Mule Night Club is open late for those wishing to hit the dance floor for most of the night.
The Kiwanis Music and Speech Arts Festival is an Okanagan Valley spring tradition for amateur performing artists. Each year in March and April participants compete in brass, dance, piano, speech arts, vocals, woodwinds, and other areas just before the Kelowna Kiwanis Music Festival.
The Pacific NW Elvis Festival, also called the Penticton Elvis Festival, is a three day long Elvis celebration—and what could be more American than that?! Elvis impersonators come from all over the world for this event, but there can be only one winner each year in Penticton on the shores of Okanagan Lake. And you can take in the Elvis mania on the same weekend as the Peach City Beach Cruise, right at the start of summer in early June.
Speaking of things uniquely American, you can attend some amazing jazz festivals in the Okanagan Valley. The annual BC Interior Jazz Festival is in Kelowna in April each year and has been in existence for more than 35 years.
The Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival is a summertime jazz offering, taking place in August of each year at the Salmon Arm BC Fair Grounds.
The Pentastic Hot Jazz Festival happens just after Labor Day each year in Penticton, and the Rare Earth Jazz and Blues Fest takes place in Vernon.
For more fun arts and culture that Americans can relate to, check out the Summerland Bluegrass Festival in June at the Summerland BC Rodeo Grounds. And if you like to play, bring your instrument and join in!
Or, if dancing is more your thing, wait until August and the Penticton Square Dance Festival during the Penticton Peach Festival; there you can square dance for four solid days with 800 other enthusiasts.
The Funtastic Sport and Music Festival in Vernon is home to Canada’s biggest slow pitch softball tournament. For the last 25 years the event has taken place in early July over the long Canada Day weekend, and Americans will love this four day long softball and music party.
Family time in the Okanagan Valley
The family vacation is an American tradition and the Okanagan Valley is the perfect place to carry on with it. Here are just a few of the awesome family-friendly things to do in the valley.
Ice skating and skateboarding
For your boarding buddies, Penticton is home to a huge skate park alongside Riverside Park. Admission is free, the park has lots of events during the summer months, and it is supervised. Bonus: Loco Landing Mini Golf Mini golf is right next door, and it also has bumper boats, bungee bouncing, go karts and rock wall climbing. During the winter months head over to Kelowna for outdoor ice skating at Stuart Park on Water Street. It’s a pretty, well-groomed rink near the lake and a fun place to hang out with some cocoa, too.
Penticton Speedway
If you have a need for speed, hit the Penticton Speedway for some family-friendly oval track auto racing. On the weekends there are both day and night races and lots of fun entertainment.
Osoyoos
Head south to the desert region of the Okanagan Valley and visit the Osoyoos Desert Center. There you can explore the unique desert ecosystem and its flora and fauna. This is also the perfect trip for a stop at the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory for a look into a massive radio telescope.
Kelowna
Kelowna isn’t a huge metropolis, but they’ve got the market cornered on parks. Visit the Hot Sands Beach and City Park for water sports rentals and beach fun as well as a boardwalk and playground with zipline and waterpark.
The Mission Creek Park has a great playground and rope pyramid as well as an indoor Environment Educational Center (EECO) where you can observe Kokanee salmon spawning right there in town from late September to early October.
Fruit orchards
There are lots of opportunities for picking your own fruit in the Okanagan Valley (as long as it’s not winter). It’s a wonderful experience for kids, and a tasty one!
Family-friendly wineries and distilleries
Believe it or not, there are lots of family-friendly wineries in the Okanagan Valley! Most offer interesting educational activities for kids as well as lots of fun. If you’ve been wondering how to get some wine time in with your kids in tow, you can do it here.
If distilled spirits are more your thing, visit the Okanagan Spirits Distillery. Your kids will be fascinated by the gigantic, bubbling copper distiller and it’s right near the park, the marina and ice cream.
Conclusion
Have you packed your bags yet? The Okanagan Valley is the perfect trip for an American on the go. There is literally something for everyone here, yet it’s only a quick, cheap flight away. You’ll love the experience of doing new, exciting things without breaking the bank or needing a translator, too!
An American in Canada: Traveling to the Okanagan Valley (Part 1)
This is the first of a two part blog series showcasing the best of what the Okanagan Valley has to offer.
When you first lay eyes on the warm-water Okanagan (pronounced oak-a-NOG-in) Valley lakes and the lush hills dotted with orchards and vines, you will understand why this is a favourite holiday spot among Canadians. You may not know what a perfect destination the area is for Americans, but since it’s just a one hour flight from Seattle or a five-hour drive east of Vancouver, it’s an easy, accessible getaway.
What Americans want and need from travel
Today Americans use less of their vacation time than they have in the last forty years—and many don’t get paid vacation at all. In 2013 American workers took only 16 vacation days total, and not always at the same time. Fewer than half of all Americans take all of the vacation time they earn, 32 percent take less than half, and 20 percent leave work for only a few days. The bottom line here is that vacation spots for Americans are more popular if they’re close to the US and don’t eat up time with jet lag and inconvenience—score one for Canada.
Various annual travel survey also reveals that cost is a major factor for Americans when we make our travel plans. Almost half of all Americans spend in between $1,000 and $1,600 on their annual summer vacation according to AAA, Visa, and Money Magazine. This is another argument in favour of Canada, and it seems apparent that Americans know it: of all international destinations Americans choose, Canada ranks second, behind only Mexico.
What many Americans might not know is how perfect Canada is for their vacation plans even without the time and financial constraints they face. What follows is my detailed look at what an American travelling the Okanagan Valley can expect, and why it’s the perfect choice for travelers from the USA.
Sport and recreation in the Okanagan Valley
Research indicates that almost all British Columbia residents enjoy outdoor recreation of some kind; in fact, around 85 percent of them say that their recreational hobbies are “very important.” Coupled with the beautiful setting and natural variety the Okanagan Valley offers, it’s no wonder that active fun in the great outdoors is a way of life here. For the huge number of Americans who love sports, recreation, and staying active while on vacation, this makes the Okanagan Valley a natural destination.
There is a wide range of sports and recreation activities and events offered throughout the year in Okanagan Valley. Visitors here get to enjoy the weather no matter what time of year they travel. In the Okanagan Valley, you get to fully experience four seasons. And with nearly 300 sunny days per year on average, the American fear about bad weather up north isn’t a real worry most of the time.
Golf
Okanagan Valley is surrounded by green, lush, rolling hills which overlook a stunning lake—it is a natural setting for picturesque golf courses and there are many here to choose from. Well-designed as they are beautiful, these courses are ideal for both beginners and longtime scratch golfers. One more reason to travel here to golf: one of the country’s driest and longest golf seasons.
Skiing and snowboarding
Renowned for being home to numerous ski resorts with every level of terrain, Okanagan Valley is perfect for families, friends, and solo skiers and snowboarders ready to enjoy the ultimate ski destination. As much as 7.5 meters of snow—yes, that’s about 25 feet, Americans—fall on the numbers slopes here each year.
There are four major resorts in the Valley: Apex Mountain Resort, Big White Ski Resort, Silver Star Mountain Resort, and Sun Peaks Resort. All have tremendously convenient ski-in ski-out facilities, and the Okanagan resorts have been recognized by Ski Canada Magazine as the “Best Choice for Lazybones who like to Ski Straight from their Doors” (and who doesn’t?!).
Located just west of Penticton, Apex Mountain Resort is a local favourite best known for its high quantities of pristine powder snow, resort activities for everyone in your family, and terrain for boarders and skiers at every skill level. You can also take to the cross-country and snowshoeing trails here and enjoy the scenery and peaceful setting. Apex also won the honour of “Best Weather” from Ski Canada Magazine.
Nickel Plate Provincial Park also offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during the winter months. And if you happen to visit during the warmer months, both Apex Mountain and Nickel Plate Provincial Park offer mountain biking—but stay tuned for more on cycling below!
Guest and spa ranches
There are few better ways to experience the breathtaking best of the Okanagan Valley than at one of its ranches, whether it’s a rustic dude ranch or an opulent spa ranch. These specialty destinations offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life along with a plethora of activities like canoeing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and even luxurious spa treatments. Or, if you’d rather enjoy the (North!) American tradition of cowboys and rodeos, take in the rodeos in Salmon Arm, Keremeos, and Armstrong or the Falkland Stampede.
Hunting and fishing
The Okanagan Valley is a hunter’s paradise. Most of British Columbia’s 65,000 white-tailed deer and almost 200,000 mule deer are in the Okanagan Valley and Kootenays region. There are numerous hunting guides in the area, and travelers need guides to hunt unless they’re hunting with a permitted local friend.
There are more than one thousand lakes in this region, and they are well-suited for fishing. Most have bait shops nearby as well as other amenities.
One highlight is the world’s largest sockeye salmon run which is in the Adams River; this offers not only great fishing but an amazing spectacle.
Another highlight in the region is the Okanagan Lake which is the 130 km (80 mile) long home to large rainbow trout in particular. The Okanagan Lake is perfect for trolling and there are excellent accommodations nearby.
As of 2011, 13.7 million Americans were hunters—that’s about 6 percent of us. American hunters spent about $2,484 each every year to hunt according to those 2011 numbers. And in that same year, more than 33 million Americans fished, spending about $1,262 each annually. With this kind of love for hunting and fishing, Okanagan Valley is an ideal spot for American travelers.
Cycling/biking
Following the many mountain biking and cycling trails in the Okanagan Valley allows you to experience sights as diverse as the region itself. Desert riding, craggy rock riding and jumping, well-forested trails, and ambling lanes along lakes are all available in the region.
Here are just some of the fun options in this area:
- The Kettle Valley Trail is 455km (283 miles) of all kinds of terrain from Brodie to Grand Forks running along and across trestles and tunnels of the old rail bed (read more about the Kettle Valley Trail below)
- Freeriding with lots of challenging terrain can be found in Merritt and Salmon Arm
- The International Biking and Hiking Trail winds for 18 km (11 miles) through south Okanagan with gentle inclines and picturesque views, from the Okanagan River down to Canada’s only desert
- Enjoy almost 150 wineries and some gorgeous countryside along the Okanagan Wine Route
- Mountain biking trails abound in Kamloops and Kelowna
- BMX and speed fans will love the downhill runs and BMX Olympic training course at the Kamloops Bike Ranch, Silver Star Resort, and Sun Peaks Resort
Would you rather attend an event or participate in a race? Don’t miss out on the mass cycling event in Penticton, the GranFondo Axel Merckx Okanagan.
Penticton also hosted the only complete Ironman event in Canada for 30 years; although the branded race has ended, triathletes and cyclists routinely visit the area.
Since an amazing 1.9 million Americans did triathlons in 2010, a number that was the result of a tremendous growth trend, they’re likely to be among this crowd. Now Challenge Penticton takes the place of the Ironman triathlon in the Okanagan Valley. Or check out Armstrong’s annual Okanagan Shuswap Century Ride which features three races in one day.
If you’re going to cycle, remember that helmets are mandatory in the Okanagan Valley (and in all of British Columbia). Also, ideal cycling weather typically happens from May to October.
Water sports
Americans love their beach vacations, and the Okanagan Valley is a perfect place for sandy beaches, sunny skies, warm waters, and water sports like boating, kayaking, kiteboarding, parasailing, sailing, stand-up paddling, wakeboarding, wind surfing, and waterskiing. There are lots of great rentals convenient to accommodations and other amenities like eateries; for example, you can book a parasail or other equipment through the Penticton Lakeside Resort’s on-site water sport rentals company, Castaways.
Hiking
Almost 30 million Americans went hiking or backpacking in 2015, so the many great hiking trips in the Okanagan Valley are a major attraction for American travelers. And the exciting diversity of natural beauty and geoclimatic conditions present along even shorter hiking trails in the Okanagan Valley makes this area even more appealing for hikers.
The wonderful array of vegetation in the various microclimates found here mean that you can see not only a range of stunning plant life, but also the variety of wildlife you’d expect to be eating this diversity of plants and flowers. Caribou, deer, moose, mountain goats, and other animals are possible sights along your hike, as are entire slopes and fields of wildflowers in summertime.
Where are some amazing places to hike in the Okanagan Valley?
Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park is more than 10,000 hectares of spruce-fir forests, mountain lakes, rustic campsites and grasslands, including a hike all the way to the top of Okanagan Mountain. Watch for coyote, elk, gopher snakes, marten, lynx, moose, mountain goats, northern alligator lizards, nuttall’s cottontails, rubber boas, spotted bats, western blue racers, western grebes, western harvest mice, western painted turtles, western rattlesnakes, western skinks, white-headed woodpeckers, white-tailed deer and yellow-bellied racers as you hike in the park.
Cathedral Provincial Park offers a breathtaking range of vegetation and rock formations and a comfortable middle ground between the more desert-like areas and wetter forests of the region. Try the park’s three well-maintained hiking routes or wander around Lake Quiniscoe at your own pace.
Mount Robson Provincial Park, designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, surrounds the stunning Mount Robson, an impressive 3,954 meter peak which towers over the park. Berg Lake Trail is the park’s most famous hiking trail for good reason; it features the advancing Berg Glacier and crosses three geoclimatic zones in the process. If you like a more challenging backcountry route, try navigating the Continental Divide and various waterways on the Moose River wilderness route over the space of a few days.
Wells Gray Provincial Park is a truly invigorating place for avid hikers, filled with waterways, lush greenery, natural swimming holes and even a volcanic cave for exploring. It is also home to various waterfalls, including the breathtaking Helmcken Falls, which is more than two times higher than Niagara Falls. Whether your interests lie in even-keel, relaxed hikes or in tough, sub-alpine treks, this is a wonderful spot.
Monashee Provincial Park is one of the best spots in Okanagan Valley for seasoned hikers, with alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers, old-growth forests, and striking rock formations which have stood in the region for eons. Don’t miss Rainbow Falls if you visit this park, and you’ll also want to take in one of the serenely beautiful lakes in the area. Alpine Routes demand advanced skills and to make the 1,000 meter Mount Fosthall climb, plan to bring additional equipment.
Hiking tips for Americans in the Okanagan Valley:
- Remember, Canada isn’t always cold! The Okanagan Valley is home to some of the country’s hottest summer temperatures, with days that reach into the 30s °C (that’s 86-102° F stateside). From time to time, a summer day might even reach above 40°C (104°F)! Plan accordingly with lots of water, good sun protection, and plenty of time to rest.
- Like in any other mountainous area, the weather can change fast. Be prepared for rain and changing temperatures.
- Treat the beautiful wilderness areas you visit with respect; carry out your garbage.
- There is a lot of wildlife in the Okanagan Valley! Do not chase or follow animals, get too close to them, or try to feed them. They are wild animals and should be observed carefully from safe distances.
Heli-hiking
If you’re a fan of hiking but love extreme sports and adventure, try heli-hiking! You can take part in this splurge sports activity in the Okanagan Valley and combine classic alpine adventure with luxury; you can even get a wine heli hiking tour. Most packages see participants flown via helicopter to spots that are stunning and rugged that they’d never reach any other way; once there, they get to hike with a guide.
Hockey
Is it a stereotype that Americans think of Canada when they think of hockey? Maybe, but in this case the stereotype rings true! Hockey is a big deal in the Okanagan Valley, just as it is throughout the nation. Here you can visit the world-famous Okanagan Hockey School, watch the Penticton Vees BCHL Team play, check out the BC Hockey Hall of Fame and time your visit to coincide with events like the Canucks Young Stars Tournament.
Elevator race
Wait, what?! Yes, this is a real thing—and it’s definitely a don’t miss event! The Penticton Ramada Elevator Race is a stages race in which participants road cycle, hike, mountain bike, paddle, run/snowshoe, Nordic ski and downhill ski/snowboard across the finish line (not in that order). This means it’s really exciting and fun to watch, and even more fun to participate in. Even if you can’t do each sport involved, you can join a team!
These are just a few of the wonderful options you have to choose from when it comes to staying active in Okanagan Valley no matter when you go.
Be sure to visit our blog next week for further details on what’s to discover in the Okanagan!
Best things to do this summer in the Okanagan Valley
The Okanagan Valley is always the perfect place to spend your summer. But what are the best things to do this summer in the Okanagan Valley? You’re going to love what’s going on in 2016:
June
Looking for some funky “new” stuff for your place? Check out the Okanagan Vintage Fair happening June 4 and 5 all day in Kelowna. If you love retro, kitsch, antiques, and just weird, interesting stuff, this is your event. Keeping to the spirit of everything old being new again, check out the Summerland Bluegrass Festival happening daily from June 10 through June 12. This fun festival features all kinds of bluegrass and other traditional acoustic music, and it’s fun for all ages.
Is doing something sporty more your speed? Check out Hockey Night in Canada’s Play On! presented by Choices Markets on June 18 and 19, 2016 from 8:00am to 6:00pm in Kelowna. This is an incredible outdoor hockey festival and street hockey tournament and a ton of fun for your whole family. Players of all ages 7 and up can compete, so put together a team and sign up on their website now.
Maybe you’d rather attend something akin to a tremendous city-wide party?
Penticton in June has you covered with the Peach City Beach Cruise. This amazing event is happening from June 24 through June 26 between 7:00am to 11:00pm each day, and you won’t believe how many events take place all day long. Some highlights of the weekend include the Friday Afternoon Wine Tour, the Friday evening Main Street Parade of Show Cars, and the outdoor concerts that will happen all weekend. Finally, speaking of concerts, the Penticton Elvis Festival also happens June 24 – 26, and if you’re a fan of The King or rock and roll, you’ll love this incredible weekend.
July
July is always a great month in the Okanagan Valley. Start it out right with the Canada Day celebration of your choice; Penticton, Kelowna, Vernon, Kamloops, and other towns in the region have excellent celebrations planned this year. Then, on July 2 head to Penticton for Slide the City, a ridiculously fun day when 1,000 feet of slick vinyl adorn the city streets, turning the place into a gigantic water slide.
If you’re a wine aficionado, don’t miss the 5th Annual Party in the Park on Friday, July 8 in Okanagan Falls. At this event 14 premier wineries join together to present a tasting festival and BBQ buffet dinner catered by Chef Jordan Ash. You’ll love picnicking on the shore of Skaha Lake, dancing, and listening to “My Kind of Karma,” a local band. Leave the kids home for this one, because it’s for ages 19 and older with ID.
If you’d rather challenge yourself physically, train for the Prospera Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan cycling race taking place on July 10 in Penticton. More than 2,800 cyclists rode the course in 2015, and there will be even more trying the three routes in 2016: the Cortofondo (55 km), Mediofondo (92 km), and Granfondo (160 km) offer varying levels for all different riders.
Finish out the month of July in Kamloops taking in the Kamloopa Pow Wow daily from July 29 to 31. This is the 37th Annual Kamloopa Powwow, and it is among the largest and most significant celebrations of First Nations’ heritage and culture in the nation. Come enjoy the stunning music, dance, storytelling, and culinary offerings.
August
As summer comes to a close, don’t miss the 5th Annual Ribfest happening daily from August 5 through 7 in Kamloops. This is a lot of fun, and of course great eating.
You’ll also love the rib cook-off which is seriously entertaining and the live entertainment and music throughout the event. And for more old western family fun, check out Canada’s Famous Cowboy Dinner Show Fridays from July 1 through August 26 in Vernon.
Now in its 7th season, this show gives you everything from a stagecoach robber to authentic cowboy steak with all the fixins’. You’ll be getting the real deal from author and historian Ken Mather as you learn to rope, ride a stagecoach, and otherwise master your cowboy skills around he campfire.
Summary
2016 is going to be a busy summer here in the Okanagan Valley. Are you ready for an amazing few months? We hope you enjoyed our lineup of the best things to do this summer in the Okanagan Valley, and we will see you there!
The best wines to complement your holiday meals
A Behind-The-Scenes Look at Valley View Farm
I was lucky enough to visit Valley View Farm in Penticton recently, where I got the chance to chat with the team that has made the organics farm such a hit at the Penticton Lakeside Resort: Resort Owner David Prystay, Valley View Farm’s General Manager Michelle Younie, and Penticton Lakeside Resort's Executive Chef, Chris Remington.
The Okanagan's Friendly Neighborhood Sea Monster: Is it Real?
Penticton: known for wine, lakes and... a sea monster?
Often considered the Loch Ness Monster’s Canadian sibling, Ogopogo is moving up in the ranks as one of the world’s most elusive sea monsters. With a seemingly permanent residency in the Okanagan Lake, Ogopogo has become a nearly century old mystery, filled with unclear sightings and international intrigue. With a name that means ‘lake demon’ in the Native Salish tongue, Ogopogo definitely has the allure and uneasiness required to become a world-renowned sea monster.