Vernon Hiking
Family hiking at Silver Star, Silver Star Mountain Resort photo
Varied terrain makes for endlessly interesting hikes in and around Vernon. Within the city, trails lead into the cedar-lined riparian zone bordering BX Falls and follow the route of the historically important Grey Canal irrigation channel.
Hike the rolling grasslands of the Commonage, explore Ellison and Kalamalka Lake provincial parks, head through the forest to the high country lakes of the Aberdeen Plateau, or travel to Silver Star Mountain and the Monashee Range beyond. Popular eco-tours are available at Silver Star Mountain Resort.
Types of Trails
Trails lead to lookouts, waterfalls, abandoned homesteader's cabins and the deep forest. Most are designed for day hikes, although there are longer overnight routes, such as the High Rim Trail that stretches 50km/31mi from Kalamalka Provincial Park south to Kelowna.
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Trails in the city and provincial parks are frequently travelled and appropriate for self-guided hikes. There are also summer walking paths at Silver Star Mountain Resort that are wheelchair and stroller-friendly. However, trails into wilderness areas, especially in the Monashees, which is grizzly bear country, require backcountry knowledge and good equipment. Only experienced hikers should venture into these areas without a local guide.
The best time to hike in the mountains is late June through September, depending on snow conditions. Trails in the city and at the provincial parks are accessible year-round.
Highlight Hikes in Vernon
Hiking trails in Ellison Provincial Park connect with trails at Predator Ridge Golf Resort and continue out onto the grasslands of The Commonage. Expect to see coyotes on the ground and hawks in the air.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park is home to seven popular trails totalling 14km/9mi. Easy to moderate, they cross grasslands, follow Red Hawthorne Creek, slip through ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forest and skirt cliffs with views of Kalamalka Lake. Several lead to beaches at Cosens Bay, Jade Bay and Juniper Bay.
Eco tours led by naturalist Roseanne Van Ee of Outdoor Discoveries include mushroom safaris around Mabel Lake in the autumn. In summer, ride the chairlift up the mountain at Silver Star Mountain Resort and learn about wildflowers, bears and local history on the hike back down.
Practical Points
- When hiking in the dry grasslands, be aware that this is habitat for the western rattlesnake.
- Black bears are not uncommon at lower elevations and are definitely seen on the sub-alpine slopes where they feed in summer. The wilderness area of the Monashee Mountains is grizzly bear habitat.
- When hiking in bear country, carry bear spray, make enough noise to announce your presence, and be aware.
- The best time to hike in the mountains is late June through September, depending on snow conditions. Trails in the city and at the provincial parks are accessible year-round.
For information on hiking trails and guide services, visit the Vernon Visitor Centre on Highway 97 south. The Vernon Outdoor Club publishes a guide to trails in the region. The seventh edition includes colour maps and GPS references. It is available at local bookstores and online.
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Award-winning fun, adventurous and informative walking, hiking & snowshoeing tours on Silver Star Mountain, at Mabel Lake and other natural areas in and around Vernon.
Join naturalist, Roseanne Van Ee, on a guided tour into wildflower meadows, mushroom fields, snow-covered forests, spectacular mountain-top views, nature parks and more.
Prescheduled tours for individuals, couples, families and friends. Private, semi-private, custom-designed and group tours can be arranged.
Special event tours to celebrate memorable holidays and occasions too.
"A photo is worth a thousand words. Great experiences are worth thousands of photos." ~ Roseanne Van Ee.
Bring a camera!
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Other businesses with Hiking
8 Km South
Vernon, British Columbia
V1T 6T1
The largely undeveloped park has a natural setting. A sloping, paved trail wanders down to the beautiful private beaches with informative signs that talk about flora & fauna along the trails. In winter, cross-country skiers enjoy the wild beauty here also a great location for hiking.
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111 Km North Of Vernon
Vernon, British Columbia
V1T 6T1
This undeveloped mountain wilderness is a wonderful adventure for both experienced, backcountry hikers & willing beginners alike. Lush green forests grace the valley bottoms & in the spring, alpine meadows blossom with a colourful array of wildflowers. Great location for fishing & bird watching.
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123 Shortt St
Silver Star Mountain Resort, British Columbia
V1B 3M1
Silver Star is exploding with activities and fun things to do throughout the summer. Silver Star is one of the BC's best mountain bike parks and has bike runs for everyone. Trail difficulties range from green to double black. The Resort also offers horseback riding, spectacular hiking, scenic chairlift rides, wildflower, camping, nature and history tours, as well as a wine festival and music festival. For those looking for a unique and beautiful destination wedding Silver Star has it all. We have a gorgeous outdoor cedar gazebo with stunning back drop of the Monashee Mountain range for your ceremony.
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Book 2 get 3!
Stay and play mid-week for 3 days and only pay for 2 days & nights!
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