Explore Out-of-Doors

The unique environment of the Osoyoos area, known as a ‘pocket desert’ provides numerous opportunities for enjoyment for all fitness and age levels.

A leisurely stroll on the lakeshore, along the Irrigation Canal Walkway, or simply an amble along Pioneer Walkway are all wonderful ways to take in a bit of nature.

For the more adventurous longer and/or more challenging trails like those on Mount Kobau might be just the ticket.

A wide range of trails of varying difficulty cater to hiking, biking (including e-bikes), and trail running in and around Osoyoos.

Osoyoos makes a great base to explore the unique beauty and diversity of this desert environment. Experience the Okanagan River Valley, grasslands, highlands, and mountains surrounding Osoyoos Lake and Oliver to the north.

A refreshing glass of wine on one of the patios of the area’s many wineries at the end (or middle!) of your hike/bike/ run adventure, but just remember the temperature can get quite hot so drink plenty of water and don’t forget sun protection.

Photography by Backwoods Mama | www.backwoodsmama.com

Oxbows

With the trailhead on Road 22 by the single-lane bridge, the Oxbows at the northern end of Osoyoos Lake, is a wonderful wetland area that is popular for its easy river-side strolling, as well as bird watching. In fact the protected area supports 20 per cent of the B.C. population of Yellow-breasted Chats, a bird species that is listed as critically imperiled in B.C. and nationally threatened.

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Photography by Backwoods Mama www.backwoodsmama.com

Mount Kobau

Soaring 1,873 metres over the southern Okanagan river valley, Mount Kobau (part of the South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area) offers sweeping views from two short hiking trails – one 1.3 km round trip with a view overlooking Osoyoos, or a 3 km loop trail that leads in the opposite direction to the Chopaka Lookout with views over the Keremeos/Cawston Valley. There is also a small picnic area at the trailhead just off the parking lot but be forewarned it’s a bumpy gravel road up the mountain, and down again.

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Mount Kruger

Here’s an insider tip that even many locals don’t know about. Mount Kruger - part of the South Okanagan Grasslands Protected Area - is a gem sitting right on the doorstep of Osoyoos. The mountain boasts a network of multi-use trails used by hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners. A couple of the trails afford excellent views across the border into Washington State, others offer views of Osoyoos and the southern Okanagan Valley, while still others pass by the mountain lakes of Kilpoola and Blue. There’s even a 23 km loop on the mountain. Access the trails from one of three places - Strawberry Creek Road in the industrial park, Kruger Mountain Road in Kilpoola off of Hwy. 3, or from 2nd Ave. right next to the border.

Photography Courtesy of OOWA

International Hike & Bike Trail

This 20.1 km trail begins at the north end of Osoyoos Lake although it does connect with the Osoyoos portion of the KVR trail along Road 22 which continues into town. The flat, mostly paved pathway runs alongside the Okanagan River channel, past orchards and vineyards to the McAlpine Bridge in Oliver. Accessible to all ages both on foot and bicycle.

sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point)

sẁiẁs Provincial Park is a beautiful campsite and day-use park located within the traditional territory of the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) that is both archaeologically and culturally significant. The main loop trail is fully paved, and great for walking and biking. The park, managed and operated by the OIB, is also home to a wetland trail.

White Lake Grasslands Protected Area

White Lake Grasslands lies just northwest of Oliver and offers a variety of hikes of varying lengths. The area is popular with those seeking to view wildlife.

Photography by: Tucker Macor

Mount Baldy

Mount Baldy, primarily a winter skiing resort, has various summer hiking and mountain biking options. Baldy Summit to Gilly’s Cabin is a 11.3 km loop trail in a beautiful forest setting. At the top, your effort is rewarded with expansive views of the Southern valley areas from Osoyoos to Oliver. In mid to late summer the alpine wildflowers add a stunning visual component. Access from Oliver on the gravel McKinney Road or east from Osoyoos on Hwy 3 to Bridesville and then north on a gravel road.

Golden Mile Trail

If you fancy a hike through a vineyard try out the 4 km Golden Mile Trail which starts from the scenic Tinhorn Creek Estate winery. As you make your way through the vineyards, you will pass Fairview Townsite, a former Gold Rush town offering lovely views of Oliver and the surrounding hills. A longer 10 km loop leads uphill to the dilapidated ruins of the Stamp Mill. This flat 12 km trail travels along the now-abandoned waterway that once provided water to the orchards in the area. It’s great for walkers, cyclists, and those pushing strollers.

EXPLORE OUT-OF-DOORS