I went to Vernon, BC knowing that I would hike a lot during my visit, especially because the city is known as the Trails Capital of BC. But what I didn’t expect was the variety of hikes that ran the gamut from easy lakeside walks and grassland hikes with big Okanagan views to moderate mountain climbs with big views and a short, difficult waterfall hike that made me feel like I was on Vancouver Island. I covered 60 kilometres of hiking over four days as described below – though SilverStar was from another visit.
One of the challenges of hiking around Vernon is understanding the lay of the land and where everything is. The trails are spread across Vernon, Coldstream, Predator Ridge and the surrounding hills, and some trail systems, especially the Grey Canal, have multiple access points throughout the area that I found a bit confusing. The Grey Canal follows the route of a historic irrigation channel that once supplied water to orchards and agricultural land throughout the valley, and today it offers a series of scenic hiking trails.
In this post I’ve included the best hikes I found, along with trailhead information, distances, elevation gain, difficulty, the best time to hike and what makes each one worth doing. Before you head out on any trail, I’d also suggest looking at the Greater Vernon Interactive Trails Map. You’ll get even more ideas for hikes in the area.
If you’re planning to explore more of the Okanagan while you’re here, also have a look at my guide to unique things to do in Kelowna for ideas beyond the hiking trails.
This post was done in partnership with Tourism Vernon. The post includes affiliate links. If you make a qualifying purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my website.
Vernon Hiking Trailhead Map
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Best Hikes in Vernon at a Glance
- Best hike for families: Okanagan Rail Trail or Cosens Bay
- Best hike for lake views: Lookout Trail or the Juniper Trail – Rattlesnake Point Combo
- Best hike for big views: Bella Vista – Davison Road (Grey Canal)
- Best hike for a workout: Coldstream Ranchlands Loop
- Best hike you’ve never heard of: Goose Lake Range Park trails
Hiking in Vernon and Coldstream
Middleton Mountain Loop
Distance: 3.8 km on the large loop
Elevation gain: Ranges from 90 m to 205 m depending on your route
Time needed: 1 – 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: East end of Mt Tanner Place or on Mt Ida Drive
Best time: Open year-round but very hot in summer as there is no shade. Early spring to mid-June is great for wildflowers and it’s not too hot. Fall is excellent for cooler days and clear skies.
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why I like it: Native grassland, glorious 360 degree views from the top of Kalamalka Lake, Coldstream Valley, Swan Lake, and the City of Vernon, birds, wildlife
This is a great first hike in Vernon because it orients you to the area. There’s nothing like a bird’s eye view to get a sense of a place. After a steep climb to the summit of Middleton Mountain from parking on Mt Tanner Place, I took advantage of one of the many well-placed benches and enjoyed views of Kalamalka Lake and beyond.
From the first viewpoint I climbed higher to the summit – a protected area of 90 acres called the Farnsworth Nature Reserve. Grasslands, cacti, wildflowers, as well as birds and wildlife have Roy Farnsworth to thank for donating the land.
Four trails wind around the mountain – and you can combine them to do loops of various lengths. Once you’ve done the initial climb, the rest of the hiking is easy – and the trails, no matter where you are on the mountain, are easy on the eyes.
Coldstream Ranchlands Loop
Distance: 6.7 km loop
Elevation gain: Approximately 321 m (1,053 feet)
Time needed: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: On Ravine Drive in Coldstream with parking for 6 cars
Best time: Year-round through spring and fall for generally good conditions
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Diverse landscape with grasslands, forests with old trees, a steep ravine, and lots of wildlife
To access the trail, hike up a road past a few houses to a gate. Continue up on a gravel road passing a signed turnoff to the Grey Canal to arrive at an intersection signed for the Coldstream Ranchlands Loop. I went right as I prefer climbing steeply over descending steeply.
Cross a hill to reach a trail that switchbacks up beside a steep ravine. The views of the repeating hills to the east are very beautiful – as are the magnificent old white pines in this area. After you’ve crested the hill, enjoy a few minutes of flat easy hiking. Take time to admire an old bench with a view out to the lakes.
On the descent the trail zigzags with some sections of it almost reaching the power lines. Look out for cows as they seem to be free-roaming. Complete the loop and descend back to your car.
BX Creek and Falls
Distance: Approximately 6.0 km return from Star Road or 600 m return from Tillicum Road
Elevation gain: ~+/-170 m from Star Road
Time needed: 1.75 – 2 hours if hiking from Star Road, 20 minutes from Tillicum Road
Difficulty: Hard from Star Road (slippery roots, bridges, muddy trails, steep ascent/descent on staircases)
Trailhead: Across from the Silver Star Foothills Ranch on Star Road or on Tillicum Road.
Best time: Spring for peak water flow but check trail conditions before you go
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the temperate rainforest of Vancouver Island.
The hike to BX Falls surprised me more than any other in the Vernon area. I really felt like I was on Vancouver Island – with all the lush growth, cedar trees, the giant leaves of the devil’s club, the slippery roots, and muddy paths. Throw in a gurgling creek, six bridge crossings, and two sets of steep stairs to navigate, and you have a hike that is completely unexpected, given its location in the Okanagan.
I did the longer version of the hike, which I very much enjoyed. But if you just want to see the falls – especially during the spring runoff, you could park on Tillicum Road and do the short out and back hike that won’t take you more than about 20 minutes. Note that the longer version can get closed – probably during peak flow – so look for trail updates online before heading out.
The hike is labeled as difficult because of the mud, roots, slippery sections – and even the steep stairs. Be very careful with foot placement, so you don’t fall. Around the falls themselves, it’s very slippery. Err on the side of safety over Instagram fame.
Grey Canal Trails
Bella Vista – Davison Road
Distance: 8 km return
Elevation gain: Minimal
Time needed: 2 – 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Off Sierra Road in this parking lot or off Davison Road
Best time: March through October
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Big views of orchards and the city
The Bella Vista – Davison Road combination is one of the most popular and beautiful sections of the Grey Canal. It’s an easy hike with little elevation gain, and the views over orchards, vineyards and the city of Vernon are compelling.
Fall is a particularly beautiful time to hike here, when the trees turn colour, apple trees are heavy with fruit, and pumpkins are ready to be picked.
There is the option to detour to Davison Orchards Country Village, following the sign from the trail. Stop at the café or pick up some fresh produce before retracing your steps to the trail.
Blue Jay Road – Turtle Mountain
Distance: 8.5 km return
Elevation gain: ~100 m
Time needed: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: End of Blue Jay Road in a large parking lot, the Haney Road parking lot (with a steep hike up to the trail) or the Rocky Ridge parking lot
Best time: March to October
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: A scenic ancient lava flow and a boardwalk
I started at the Blue Jay Road parking lot and enjoyed views of grasslands and hills as I made my way towards the Turtle Mountain section. There wasn’t much elevation gain or loss until l got close to Turtle Mountain, so the kilometres flew by.
On the approach to Turtle Mountain pass pieces of exposed steel pipe from a portion of the former Grey Canal’s Knight Siphon. Shortly after that, you curve around an ancient lava flow onto a boardwalk – enjoying views out to Swan Lake, Okanagan Lake, and Vernon’s downtown.
There is a final steep climb into the Turtle Mountain development and the Rocky Ridge parking area. If you parked here you could do a quick out and back hike to the lava flow in under 15 minutes – or you can head for the Davison section of the Grey Canal trail. Otherwise, simply retrace your steps, being careful with footing on the pebbly descent.
Cypress Drive to Galiano Road Trail
Distance: 2.6 km return
Elevation gain: Approximately 80 m
Time needed: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Trailhead: Parking on Cypress Drive in the Coldstream Valley Estates in a large lot
Best time: Spring (April to mid-June) and fall (September – October) for cooler temperatures, wildflowers and fall colours
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Views of the Coldstream Valley and distant lakes
If you’re looking for a short hike with big views over the Coldstream Valley, do the out and back hike high on Vernon Hill from Cypress Drive to Galiano Road where it joins up with the Main and Boss Creek trails.
The trail starts off flat near the Grey Canal sign. Hike through colourful birch trees before starting to climb. About a half kilometre into the hike you reach a bench with a view out over the valley to the lakes and beyond. Just after the bench, climb some stone stairs built into the hillside.
I continued from there enjoying the views until I reached an imposing private residence with a long driveway. That was my turn around point and I simply retraced my steps.
Hiking in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
Cosens Bay Trail
Distance: 6.0 km return
Elevation gain: +/- 174 m
Time needed: 2 hours + beach time
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Kalamalka Provincial Park Cosens Bay Parking Lot
Best time: March to October with prime time in summer for swimming and enjoying the beach. In winter the trail is open but bring microspikes as the trail can get icy.
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: A beach at the end of the trail
The wide trail from the Cosens Bay parking lot to the beach at Cosens Bay is easy to follow. It climbs gently at first to reach a bench with a view. After crossing Cosens Bay Road, the trail passes through an area filled with some big, beautiful pine trees. Another bench offers a lake view before the trail descends gradually to the beach.
The beach is not accessible by car – which helps to limit the number of visitors. The beach itself is a mix of sand and gravel. The water is crystal-clear and even in late September, it would be warm enough for a quick dip. You will find picnic tables and outhouses as well as a roped-off section for swimming.
The only downside to this hike is that you have to climb back up – and in summer it can get very hot. The beach can also be reached via the Corral Trail if you park at the Red Gate – and then it’s only about 2.3 km one way.
Juniper Trail and Rattlesnake Point
Distance: 3.6 km
Elevation gain: Approximately 90 m
Time needed: One hour
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Kalamalka Park main parking area
Best time: Accessible year-round with spring through fall the best time to visit
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Glorious, up-close views of Kalamalka Lake
The Juniper Trail – Rattlesnake Point hike was one of my favourites in the Vernon area. It’s easy and family-friendly, and it offers the chance to visit two beaches (Jade Bay Beach and Juniper Bay Beach). To top it off, the up-close Kalamalka Lake views are stunning.
I hiked the Juniper Trail on the way out to the first lookout with benches and returned to the parking lot via the Crest Trail. I was lucky to see only a few people on my early morning weekday hike in the fall, but if you visit in summer, expect crowds.
This is one hike you can easily knock off on a short trip to Vernon especially as the trailhead is only a 15-minute drive from the downtown area.
Lookout Trail via Parabola Trail
Distance: ~6.2 km loop
Elevation gain: About 249 m
Time needed: 2-2.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailhead: Parking at the Red Gate
Best time: March through October; in summer go early to beat the heat
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Phenomenal views down the length of Kalamalka Lake
While you could do an out and back hike on the Lookout Trail, it’s more interesting to do a clockwise loop hike starting with the Parabola Trail. It offers some views of Vernon and Kalamalka Lake, but it’s really a means to an end. Once you turn onto the Lookout Trail, the views begin – and they get better the further you hike on the trail.
It’s well worth doing the short side trail to the Cougar Corner Cairn. That’s where the picture (two down) was taken. It’s a magnificent spot as you can see from Cosens Bay all the way to the end of the Kalamalka Lake. This is one of Vernon’s top hikes, with a moderate effort for a high reward.
I should note that I saw very fresh bear scat on the connector section under the powerlines. I started making lots of noise – but would have been more comfortable carrying bear spray.
Cougar Canyon Trail
Distance: Approximately 2.6 km return
Elevation gain: +/- 86 m
Time needed: One hour
Difficulty: Moderate; beware of drop-offs by the cliffs
Trailhead: Cougar Canyon trailhead off Cosens Bay Road
Best time: March through October
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: If you time it right you could see rock climbers in action
Access to the Cougar Canyon parking lot is via the sometimes narrow Cosens Bay Road. There’s a big parking lot and good signage at the trailhead. Hike gradually up hill, enjoying some peek-a-boo views of Kalamalka Lake. There is one bench along the route.
When I got to a pretty rocky area with a sign saying “Do Not Throw Rocks” I turned back. The views from the clifftops are quite lovely – and it feels far more rugged here than on any other Vernon hike I did.
Goose Lake Range Park
Hiking the Trails at Goose Lake Range Park
Distance: 3.2 km of trails
Elevation gain: Minimal
Time needed: 45-90 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Take Mendenhall Road to Stepping Stones Road, and a 1 km dirt road to reach a parking lot
Best time: Spring and fall when temperatures are cooler
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: A new park featuring grasslands, wetlands, lots of birds
Goose Lake Range Park, which opened on November 19, 2025, sits on a high plateau between Swan Lake and Okanagan Lake – offering up beautiful lake views. It’s probably the best hike you’ve never heard of in the Vernon area.
The park features 3 km of multi-use gravel trails that can be combined to make a big loop. I loved the park for the sense of peacefulness along with the vegetation and bird life. If I lived in Vernon this would be one of my go-to places for a dog walk.
Hiking at Predator Ridge and Okanagan Lake
Okanagan Lake Lookout Loop
Distance: 3.2 km including side trips to picnic tables at scenic locations
Elevation gain: Approximately 80 m
Time needed: One hour
Difficulty: Hard
Trailhead: Located at Predator Ridge with parking off Birdie Lake Drive here
Best time: March to October – with spring and fall being the most comfortable for temperatures
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Excellent views of Okanagan Lake
The Okanagan Lake Lookout Trail is just one of many multi-use hiking and walking trails at Predator Ridge, a golf resort community, located about a 25-minute drive away from Vernon.
I’d rate this 3.2 km loop hike as difficult because of some steep sections with ball-bearing like scree. The first part of the hike, heading counterclockwise is easy. There are two quick side trips to picnic tables with a view (one of Okanagan Lake and the other of the golf course community) that I think are worth doing. After the turnoff to the second picnic table the difficulty of the hike goes up a notch or two.
The Okanagan Lake Lookout, as you can imagine, offers excellent views of the lake. From the high point I descended on the Granite Trail to return to the parking lot and close the loop. I saw a lot of mountain bikers towards the end of the hike – so be prepared to get out of the way in a hurry.
While I loved this hike, I also thoroughly enjoyed a glass of local chardonnay and a delicious crispy Korean chicken sandwich with a fantastic view at the Range Restaurant, Bar & Patio. I’d recommend that as an end of day pairing.
Okanagan Rail Trail
What to Expect on the Okanagan Rail Trail
Distance: Entirely up to you
Elevation gain: Negligible
Time needed: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: Park in the lot by Sun Country Cycle and then walk towards the trail on College Way
Best time: Year-round but lovely in spring and fall
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: To experience the close-up beauty of Kalamalka Lake
The Okanagan Rail Trail travels for 52 km between Coldstream and Kelowna. In theory, any part of the trail can be walked, but parking will influence where you start. I think some of the prettiest walking is near the beginning in Coldstream. From there, you can simply do an out and back walk, deciding if you want an easy day or an epic day. There are lots of opportunities to get down to the lake and see the incredible colours up-close.
With help planning your day check out this Google Map created by the Okanagan Rail Trail.
Hiking at SilverStar Mountain
SilverStar Hiking Trails
Distance: Approximately 10 km of hiking trails
Elevation gain: About 300 m
Time needed: 1.5 – 3 hours
Difficulty: Variable
Trailhead: Base of SilverStar Mountain
Best time: Late June to early September for wildflowers and fall colours
Dogs: Yes, on leash
Why hike it: Wildflowers and scenic views
At SilverStar, there are several ways to explore the mountain. You can hike up to the summit via Milky Way before reaching the Forest Fire Lookout. From the summit, the 1.5-km Attridge Scenic Loop is an easy option with mountain views, while Ridgewalk, Villageview, and Valleyview offer routes that continue down the mountain toward the Village. If you don’t want to hike uphill, you can take the gondola or Comet Express chairlift to the summit and begin your hike from there.
Most of these hikes take about 1.5–3 hours, with roughly 300 m of elevation gain if starting from the Village. The Prospector and Silver Queen trails also connect with multi-use trails, though mountain bikes are not permitted on the hiking trails described in my blog about SilverStar in summer.
Best Time to Hike in Vernon
You can hike year-round in Vernon, but spring and fall are usually the best seasons for hiking, because temperatures are cooler and trails are more comfortable. Spring brings wildflowers and, on trails like BX Creek and Falls, impressive water flow. Fall is especially good for clear skies, cooler temperatures and fall colour.
Summer can be very hot, particularly on exposed grassland and hilltop trails with little to no shade. If you’re hiking in July or August, start early, carry plenty of water and avoid the hottest part of the day. Some trails, especially those around Kalamalka Lake, are still appealing in summer if you’re combining a hike with time at the beach.
Winter is possible on some lower-elevation trails, but expect snow or ice on shaded sections. Carry microspikes in case you run into slippery sections. At SilverStar, thanks to its higher elevation, the main hiking season runs from late June into early September.
Vernon Hiking Tips
Trail conditions: Some of the Vernon trails are rocky, dusty and uneven, especially in the dry season. Wear good hiking shoes with decent traction even on relatively short trails.
Pack: Always carry the 10 hiking essentials.
Heat and Sun: Vernon gets hot and dry in summer, and many of the trails described have little shade. Start early, wear a hat, use sunscreen, and carry more water than you think you’ll need.
Water: Carry one to two litres of water depending on the season. On a hot day I’d recommend carrying water purification tablets or a squeezable water filter where you can dip and drink immediately.
Ticks: Check yourself and your dog especially after hiking in grassy and brushy areas.
Bears: I saw a lot of bear scat – some of it quite fresh. I think it’s a good idea to carry easy to access bear spray and know how to use it. I’d also suggest reading Tips for Staying Safe in Bear Country.
Rattlesnakes: There are warnings about rattlesnakes in Vernon, especially between April 1 and October 31. Use common sense and avoid walking through thick brush, tall grass, or over rock piles. Consider carrying a trekking pole to probe the area in front of you. Never blindly reach into rock crevasses, ledges, or under bushes. Keep your dogs on a leash. Always give a snake a clear path to escape.
Wildfire and smoke: Check for current wildfire conditions, smoke and trail closures before heading out, especially during the summer. Conditions can change quickly in the Okanagan.
Navigation: You may not always have cell service. Download your route or map before leaving, particularly on longer hikes.
Practice: Leave No Trace principles. Be sure to tell someone where you are going and when you’re due back.
Where to Stay in Vernon
There are two places I have personally stayed at in Vernon I would recommend. On my hiking trip to Vernon I stayed at the Prestige Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre. My room was very comfortable and quiet – even though it opened to a sitting area overlooking the pool, hot tub and organic garden. It was also just a few minutes’ drive from most restaurants.
And just a week earlier on the drive back to Alberta from hiking in Cathedral Provincial Park I had stayed at The Castle at Swan Lake. Our reasonably priced room came with a living room and kitchen, and a hot tub and swimming pool were available too. This hotel is on the way out of town as you’re heading to Sicamous, but it’s still no more than about a 10-minute drive to most restaurants in Vernon. And there is a restaurant onsite as well.
Where to Eat in Vernon
I spent four days in Vernon and fell into a routine with a daily coffee and breakfast at Ratio Coffee and Pastry – partly because they open early and parking was easy. Also, their food and muffins are really good and they are super friendly. Other suggestions from friends include Triumph Coffee, the Rail Trail Café & Market and Two Donkeys Bakery.
For dinner I highly recommend Masiero Pizzeria Napoletana in the downtown area, BNA Brewing, and the Range Restaurant, Bar + Patio at Predator Ridge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking in Vernon
Yes. In fact Greater Vernon is called the Trails Capital of BC. Look for over 500 km of paths and trails on over 50 mapped routes.
The Okanagan Rail Trail is the easiest hike in Vernon with the Bella Vista – Davison section a close second.
I think the best views in Vernon are on the Bella Vista Trail, the Lookout Trail, the Middleton Mountain Trails, and the Juniper Trail – Rattlesnake Lookout combo.
The Grey Canal Trail in Vernon follows BC’s longest irrigation channel that at one time sustained orchards and agriculture in the valley. The Grey Canal follows the alignment of the old canal – and is divided into easily walkable sections around the city.
Yes. It’s a flat, easy and very scenic multi-use trail with much of it along the shore of Kalamalka Lake.
Yes. Peak rattlesnake season is generally between April 1 – October 31. Avoid hiking through tall grass, heavy brush, or on loose rock piles where snakes hide.
Yes, on leash. And please pick up after them.
No – because some of the land is on private property or it’s very rough. You can explore the west side of Kalamalka Lake via the Okanagan Rail Trail.
The best hikes in Vernon are the Juniper Trail (plus Rattlesnake Lookout), the Lookout Trail, the Bella Vista – Davison Road combo, the Goose Range Park trails, and the Okanagan Lake Lookout Loop at Predator Ridge.
More Great Things to Do in the Okanagan
- 27 Things to Do in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia – Plan your trip with this guide to the best things to do in the Okanagan Valley, from wineries and beaches to hiking trails, bike rides, and charming small towns.
- A Guide to 3 Perfect Days in the South Okanagan – A relaxed summer itinerary highlighting wineries, lakes, small towns, and outdoor adventures across the South Okanagan.
- 5 of the Best Bike Rides in the South Okanagan – Five standout cycling routes in the South Okanagan, ranging from easy rail trails to scenic road rides.
- A Guide to SilverStar in Summer – An overview of summer activities at SilverStar Mountain Resort, including hiking, mountain biking, and family-friendly experiences.
- Bike Myra Canyon on the Amazing Kettle Valley Railway – Ride across historic trestle bridges and through tunnels on one of British Columbia’s most spectacular rail-trail rides.
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