 Osoyoos Lake, Laurie Carter photo
Osoyoos LakeThe call of the outdoors is irresistible in Osoyoos. With Osoyoos Lake forming the heart of the town, beaches beckon swimmers and sun-soakers, thrill-seekers ride on or over the waves in every style from wakeboard to parasail and anglers ply the waters in search of lively bass.
Outdoor Activities Beyond the fertile agricultural lands of the valley floor and benches that border the town centre, the terrain rises steeply in dry grasslands and pine studded ridges with spectacular lookouts. Roads and trails like the International Hike & Bike Trail and the Testalinden Trails on Mount Kobau hold endless possibilities for hikers and cyclists while bird watchers add to their life lists at Haynes Point Provincial Park and the Osoyoos Oxbows. Winter brings on the champagne powder for downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing on Mount Baldy. Osoyoos FruitOne of the most important fruit-growing centres in Canada, Osoyoos produces irresistible soft fruits like peaches and cherries. Roadside stands, U-pick orchards and the Market on Main community market continue to be favourite stops for residents and visitors.
Wineries Restaurants make a point of buying local produce, including the award-winning reds, whites, fruit wines and Icewines of the burgeoning Okanagan wine industry. Over 20 wineries are located within a 20-minute drive of Osoyoos, in town, on the Black Sage Bench and the Golden Mile, with more wineries to the west in the Similkameen Valley.
Ecology and Aboriginal CultureBeing located in Canada's only true desert and one of the most highly endangered ecosystems in the country, Osoyoos is a natural draw for visitors interested in learning more about the environment at places like the Desert Centre Osoyoos. And the Nk'Mip Desert and Cultural Centre of the Osoyoos Indian Band is not only the premier aboriginal attraction in the Okanagan Valley, it is also an important environmental interpretive centre.
Where to StartStop by the British Columbia Visitor Centre @ Osoyoos, junction of Highways 3 and 97, where friendly staff can offer information on things to do in Osoyoos, accommodation and dining recommendations, maps and brochures. For a great overview, head to the pullout on Anarchist Mountain via Highway 3 east. This lookout provides the best panorama of town centre, lake, desert, orchards, vineyards, highlands and mountain peaks beyond.
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