where to ride:

Gravel

The Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail is the longest rail-trail network in BC; an extensive recreational trail providing almost 650 km of connected pathways from Hope to Castlegar – BC Rail Trails

The Trans Canada Trail (TCT) enters Penticton from the north along the east bluffs of Okanagan Lake. Following the route of the former Kettle Valley Railway (KVR), along the trail, you will discover maps, interpretive signage, and the occasional artifact from this historical site.

This is a very popular trail with locals and tourists for biking, walking, jogging, and sightseeing. The trail passes through many local vineyards and orchards, and along creeks and Okanagan Lake – so there are many opportunities for ‘breaks’ along the way.

Discover Penticton at its finest!

Trail Highlights & Developments:

Your journey along the KVR in the Penticton area is a spectacular part of the Trans Canada Trail. Some highlights include:

 

  • Great trail conditions from Penticton to Naramata
  • Great trail conditions in sections between OK Falls and Penticton
  • McCulloch Trestle
  • Little Tunnel and views of Okanagan Lake
  • Rock Ovens Regional Park
  • Adra Tunnel (closed but under restoration)
  • Chute Lake Resort

KVR – Penticton West (Channel Corridor)

MAP
  • 6 km
  • 34 mins (avg time)
  • Float down the channel in summer

TKVR/TCT – Penticton to Chute Lake/Highlands 

MAP

KVR – Penticton to Summerland

MAP
  • 11 km
  • 468 M (high-point)
  • 48 mins (avg time)
  • Being returned to the Penticton Indian Band (this segment is not maintained or patrolled)

KVR – Penticton to OK Falls

MAP

  • In Summerland (20 mins of downtown Penticton)

  • 10 trails

  • 19 kms

  • Take the KVR on the West side of Lake Okanagan before entering Conkle

Penticton to Osoyoos

MAP

  • Within 10 mins of downtown Penticton

  • 40 trails

  • 51 kms

Doable only in sections (no bridge across the Okanagan River south of Vaseaux Lake). There are sections of rail bed that are under dispute by landowners, the section around Oliver is not usable as per the track but there is the nearby International Hike and Bike Trail that runs adjacent to the Okanagan River. Trails BC has a map that shows what is currently doable, which includes road and highway segments. (source: Trails BC Penticton to Osoyoos Bike Route)

The International Hike & Bike Trail follows the course of the Okanagan River channel from McAlpine Bridge on Highway 97 in the north to Osoyoos Lake in the south.

The total distance is 18.4km, of which nearly 10km is paved and there are many trailheads and parking areas that allow for easy access to this family-friendly ride.