Pedal Paradise: Discovering Kelowna's Top 5 Bike Trails
Embark on a two-wheeled journey through Kelowna, a city where the trails tell stories, and every pedal brings a new adventure.
The Myra Canyon Trestles Trail
Riding along the Myra Canyon Trestles trail is like cycling through history. Once part of the Kettle Valley Railway, this 25-km trail boasts 18 wooden trestles and two tunnels. Ideal for all skill levels, its flat, wide path offers stunning canyon views. Accessible 24 km from downtown Kelowna, the trail's rich history is a tribute to the Canadian Pacific Railway's role in connecting BC. Restored after the 2003 forest fire, it stands as a symbol of resilience and community spirit.
Mission Creek Mountain Bike Skills Park
Located on Hollywood Road South, the Mission Creek Mountain Bike Skills Park caters to everyone from beginners to pros. With a pump track and four dirt jump lanes, it's a perfect spot to hone your biking skills. Watch or join in the excitement, as both novices and expert riders take to the jumps, contributing to the biking culture.
Gillard Trail Network
Gillard, south of Kelowna, is ideal for intermediate and advanced riders. This network, once a secret among local riders, now features 73 trails with varying difficulty levels. The trails offer fast single tracks, wood stunts, gap jumps, and more, demanding full-suspension bikes and full-face helmets. For those seeking adrenaline, Gillard's challenging terrains like Moose Knuckle, Kerplop, and Boss Hog, promise an exhilarating experience.
Knox Mountain Park
Knox Mountain Park provides a diverse range of trails, from beginner-friendly paths to advanced runs. The Apex Trail is a popular intermediate route, while Simpson Trail offers downhill excitement with jumps and table-tops. For those seeking a bit more thrill, Shale Trail features gap jumps and rock rolls. Balsamroot Bluff Loop, with its switchbacks, adds variety to this scenic biking spot.
Crawford Trails
Crawford Trails, part of Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park, weave through scenic cedar forests and rugged landscapes marked by the 2003 Okanagan Mountain Park Fire. With 113 trails, they cater to all levels, from green to black-rated paths. The Lost Lake Trail provides access many downhill routes. For beginners, Galloping and Fairlane offer moderate challenges, while advanced riders can take on Vapour for its technical features and stunning views.