Oliver Biking
Hike & Bike Trail, Oliver Tourism photo
Oliver provides tremendous opportunities for mountain bikers of every skill level and thrill quotient. Easy riders can warm up beside the Okanagan River, pedal country lanes among cherry and peach orchards or take on the moderate slopes of Black Sage Road for a tour of vineyards and wineries.
Thrill seekers, strap on the gear and check out the experts-only downhill plunge at TKO off the Golden Mile Trail. Landscapes include orchards and vineyards, dry grasslands dotted with antelope brush and sage, stands of ponderosa pine, granite cliffs and mountain lakes. Trails provide opportunities for viewing wildlife both common and rare.
Highlight Rides around Oliver
International Hike & Bike Trail
The easy-ride International Hike & Bike Trail follows the course of the Okanagan River channel from McAlpine Bridge on Highway 97 in the north to Osoyoos Lake in the south.
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The total distance is 18.4km/11.3mi, of which nearly 10km/6.2mi is paved. The path is broad and virtually flat. There are many access points, including at the Oliver Visitor Centre. Stop for a look at the interpretive sign describing the history of sockeye salmon in the river.
Fairview Trail Network
Intermediate level mountain bikers ride the Golden Mile Trail along the hillside west of Oliver for a close look at many of the area's diverse ecosystems. Take the full 10km/6.2mi loop starting at Tinhorn Creek Winery and stop at the Fairview Townsite, once a bustling gold mining town, now a wide-open ecological reserve, and read about its history at the info kiosk. Views from the trail take in Oliver, the valley and the mountains beyond. Near Tinhorn Creek Winery, a side trail leads to the stone ruins of a stamp mill that dates to gold mining days. For a serious adrenaline rush, expert riders can gear up for a run at TKO, an extremely steep single-track downhill that connects with the Golden Mile Trail above Tinhorn Creek Winery.
McIntyre Bluff Trail Network
Access to the McIntyre Bluff Trail Network is through the private property of Covert Farms. Call ahead or stop in to get permission to cross. The Rattlesnake Lake loop trail is rated intermediate with technical single-track to fast double-track conditions. Ride the trail in either direction. Only advanced riders should tackle the McIntyre Bluff out-and-back section, but the views from the top of the 250m/820ft cliff are outstanding.
Stop by Double O Bikes for rentals, maps and insider info on all the local trails. Maps are also available at the Oliver Visitor Centre (6431 Station St).
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