Naramata is an excellent base for mountain bikers.
The surrounding area offers scenic paths and country byways for easy rides, mountain trails for more extreme thrills and road courses tailor-made for triathletes in-training.
The KVR Trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trail, is the best-known bike touring area near Naramata. Gentle two per cent grades on the former Kettle Valley Railway make it an easy ride. Several access points put riders close to tunnels, rock ovens and panoramic vistas.
The section from Chute Lake to Penticton is extremely popular. It starts at Chute Lake Resort, renowned for camping, fishing, burgers and pie plus a stunningly eclectic assortment of antiques and collectibles. The ride is all downhill with terrific views of Okanagan Lake, orchards and the vineyards of the Naramata Bench wineries. Several companies offer tours along this stretch or shuttle service to Chute Lake for riders with their own bikes.
Fur Brigade Trail
Wildhorse Canyon Trail hugs the flank of Okanagan Mountain for 18.5km/11.5mi taking in one end of Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park from the south parking lot to the northern entrance near Kelowna.
Most of the trail follows the route of mid-19th Century Hudson's Bay fur brigades. Slated for development as a provincial highway, it was saved in 1973 when local activists were successful in having the park created. The trail is rated moderate.
Three Blind Mice Trails
Check out Three Blind Mice southeast of Naramata. The 121ha/300ac biking area hosts a double track network of 11 named trails on three main routes. With lots of sub-trail options, there's terrain for every skill level, but riders looking for some extreme action with steep climbs, straight down runs, jumps and stunts won't be disappointed.
Keep an eye on direction, with so many trails, it's easy to get turned around. Maps are available at Penticton bike shops.
Campbell Mountain
Cross-country riders head for Campbell Mountain southeast of Naramata. From the trailhead on Reservoir Road, climb to the two radio towers on the summit and pick from a variety of trails for the downhill run.
Road Race Training
Riders training for grand prix, triathlon and ironman races are a regular sight on Naramata Road and North Naramata Road. These two country thoroughfares that run above the shoreline of Okanagan Lake are ideal for working on speed and endurance - but the views can make it tough for riders to keep their minds on the road.
Country Rides
Easy riders head out from Naramata and follow the country roads. Every route promises memorable lake and mountain views. In spring, ride among blossoming orchards that transform the area into a fragrant flower garden and see the vineyards leafing out. In autumn, smell the earthy scent of ripe apples and stop to watch the careful hand harvesting of flavour-packed vinifera grapes.
The Discover Naramata Visitor's Guide contains a colour map of the Naramata section of the KVR Trail.
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