 Kalamalka Lake, Tourism BC/Don Weixl photo
Community Pride Many who have recently settled here first sampled Vernon on vacation. They liked what they saw and came to stay. Now they're among the biggest cheerleaders for the activities that drew them. Together with residents whose ancestors pioneered the community, they donate countless volunteer hours. Without them, attractions like the Science Centre, Vernon Museum and O'Keefe Ranch couldn't function. Drop into any coffee shop or boutique, stop a Vernonite passing on the street, they'll go out of their way to answer questions and help you enjoy their city.
Four-season Recreation The Okanagan People, who have lived in the area for thousands of years, knew how to take advantage of their natural surroundings. Early European settlers got the message too. Vernon is the oldest city in the Okanagan Valley, incorporated in 1892. Historic brick buildings and an imposing courthouse in the downtown core, and leafy residential streets lined with heritage homes attest to prosperous beginnings fuelled by agriculture and transportation. Today tourism plays a major role in the economy although the ranching and fruit growing that helped give Vernon its start continue and have even adapted to welcome visitors. Restaurants offer tremendous choice from steak to pasta and a world of ethnic flavours while the arts scene includes galleries, concerts by the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra and touring headliners at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre. Vernon Outdoor Adventures Nature remains Vernon's biggest asset. Famous champagne powder at Silver Star Mountain Resort, just 22km/13mi from downtown, attracts skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers and snowmobilers. In summer, myriad hiking and cycling trails explore every area from the historic Grey Canal within the city to the nearby provincial parks and the rugged Monashee Mountain Range. Mountain biking is also a big draw at Silver Star. Okanagan, Kalamalka and Swan lakes provide a backdrop for summer activities including camping, canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, scuba and fishing. And four area golf courses lay out a range of challenges with easy walks right through to the PGA championship tees of Predator Ridge. Where to Get Started Staff at the Vernon Visitor Centre on Highway 97 south will help with questions about accommodations and attractions and provide maps and brochures. Ask about the free downtown parking pass for visitors. Armed with the parking pass, head for the city centre, one of the best places to get oriented. Take a self-guided or conducted tour of its 26 historic murals for a good sense of what Vernon is all about. Shops are run by owners who gladly stop to talk and this is the area for maximum selection in dining.
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