4
Introductory to Moderate

Traveler Rating

 

Activities
  • 3 days self-guided cycling
Accommodation
  • 4 nights inns/b&b's

Price

5 daysfrom

$1460USD

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip code: KVR

Trip highlights

  • Ride over Myra Canyon's historic trestles and through its tunnels
  • Relax next to picturesque Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake
  • Visit the world-class wineries of Naramata Bench and Summerland's Bottleneck Drive
  • Sample the delights of BC's biggest fruit producing region

Cycle through one of Canada's sunniest regions on an awe-inspiring section of the Trans Canada Trail in the Okanagan, British Columbia. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) is a converted railway bed originally built in the early 1900s to facilitate mining in the area. Although surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, the route needed to be suitable for trains, so the rail trail's grade is never over 2.2%, making for a pleasant cycling route. Ride alongside beautiful lakes, over the dramatic Myra Canyon Trestles, through mountain tunnels, and into the heart of one of the biggest fruit and wine-producing areas in Canada. Enjoy views of vine-covered hillsides along Okanagan Lake and endless opportunities to sample the local wines and culinary delights of Naramata, Summerland and Kelowna.

Itinerary

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Make your way to our joining hotel in Kelowna. Set on the beautiful Okanagan Lake, the energic city is surrounded by wilderness, mountains, vineyards and orchards. Enjoy the vibrant cultural life of the largest city in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley.

Meals:  Nil

A morning shuttle will pick you up from your hotel in Kelowna for a transfer to the start of your cycling journey on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. The trail access point is near Idabel Lake, where your bikes will be fitted, and after a briefing, you are off to begin your KVR ride. Today you will encounter the immense and remote Hydraulic Lake, and you will ride high along the edge of a winding canyon with views down to the valley as you cycle towards the spectacular Myra Canyon trestle bridges. This is one of the most scenic sections on the Trans Canada Trail, with 18 wooden trestles and two tunnels built to enable traversing the canyon. After passing the final trestle, enjoy the downhill ride up to historic Chute Lake and railway museum, where you will stay for the night. Chute Lake Lodge features a Canadiana style restaurant and various activities, from relaxing in the sauna to kayaking on the tranquil lake amidst striking mountains. Most room types utilize shared bathrooms.

Meals:  B,L

After a hearty lodge breakfast, get back on your bike for a lovely ride toward the picturesque Naramata Bench. This section of the KVR leads you beneath giant Ponderosa pines before the view opens up to an expanse of hillside orchards and wineries along the shores of sparkling Okanagan Lake. The trail then heads south to Penticton along the renowned Naramata Bench, recognized for its high density of wineries along a touring route with breathtaking views and delicious dining options. It's a breezy coast downhill to Penticton through orchards and vineyards. Penticton is along the beautiful Okanagan lake, nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. We recommend grabbing lunch at the Hillside Winery or the Poplar Grove Winery as you near the city. Your accommodation for the night is within cycling distance of numerous recommended wineries, including the D'Angelo, Ruby Blues, Red Rooster, and Lock and Worth Wineries.

Meals:  Nil

A morning shuttle will pick you up from your accommodations in Penticton for a transfer to Summerland. After touring the southernmost wineries of Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive, an impressive cluster of sweeping vineyards and lush orchards, the Kettle Valley Rail trail begins where an active rail line ends. You will follow the trail to the south as it passes Okanagan Lake and begins to circumnavigate Skaha Lake from its western side on the way to the little community of Okanagan Falls, on the lake’s southern tip. The town is named after twin waterfalls, but they have since disappeared, so don't go chasing waterfalls. However, it's a nice stop for lunch at one of the small local restaurants, or you can grab some fresh food at the market for a picnic at the lovely Christie Memorial Park. From here, you will ride on a panoramic road on the eastern coastline of the lake back towards Penticton. The route is mostly flat unless you decide to make the detour to some nearby wineries up the hill.

Meals:  B

After breakfast - A transfer to the airport in Penticton can be arranged upon request prior to departure. This is where your incredible Okanagan wine and bike tour concludes, safe travels!

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch
  • 4 nights accommodations, most with en-suite facilities (double occupancy)
  • Transfers as indicated in the itinerary
  • Luggage transfers (1 piece per person 20 kg max)
  • Hybrid bike rental with rear rack, bottle cage, bike lock, repair kit, and helmet
  • Navigation APP inclusive of detailed route notes and points of interest (available offline while cycling)
  • Emergency hotline
  • C$50 per person donation to Trans Canada Trail

  • Optional E-bike upgrade
  • Travel to Kelowna/from Penticton
  • Guide (this is a self-guided tour)
  • Meals not listed in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
  • Wine tasting fees
  • Airfare, visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Applicable taxes

Accommodation

Cozy Lodging

Accommodation on this trip is in comfortable B&Bs and 1 night in glamping tent. Each has been chosen for its convenient location, local character, and quality. The trip price is based on 2 people per room. Please indicate if you prefer to share a bed, or have separate beds. A single supplement is available for those wishing to secure their own rooms, subject to availability.

Bike information

Hybrid Bike

Modern hybrids suitable for road and mild off-road use with eighteen to twenty-four gears. They are provided with a rear rack, helmet, lock, and basic tool kit.

E-bike

E-bike upgrades are possible upon request, subject to availability. Equipped with rear rack, helmet, lock, and basic tool kit. Great option for a boost or extra pedal-power!

Trail Surface

Nice to Rough Trail Surfaces

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail encompasses everything from hard packed surfaces to soft, sandy conditions and some rocky areas. You can expect to occasionally find standing water in some sections as well as potential detours. Please note that this is a multi-use trail and motorized vehicles (ATVs) are permitted. Be prepared for rougher sections including potholes in the higher traffic areas and other potential obstructions. Please note that the trail authority that maintains the trail does so sporadically throughout the season on an annual basis. Be prepared for rougher sections of trail undergoing maintenance during this process.

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Suitability

Introductory to Moderate

4

Introductory to moderate. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is primarily rolled stone dust and dirt, and never has more than a 2.2% grade. In wet weather, parts of the trail may be muddy and sections may be in need of minor repair. We've made your ride lighter by moving your extra luggage ahead where required. Most cyclists of average ability should be able to complete the route easily especially as the cycling days do not exceed 60 kilometres in distance. Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!). Cyclists will be expected to know how to fix a flat tire and make basic adjustments to their bicycles using the included repair kit. Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of if as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7-day service hotline in the event of any problems.

Departure dates

Every Sunday and Monday from June to mid September

Notes

Note:
Some accommodations may not have twin rooms. If you do not wish to share a bed with your travel companion you will have to pay a single supplement on those nights. Rooms with two beds may require an additional fee.

Want to organise a customised tour?

School groups, friends, family trips, corporate events or just tailoring a trip to suit your own needs - learn how you can tailor your own Customised Tour.

Priceper person from

$1460USD

* All prices subject to applicable taxes

Options & Supplements*
  • Discount for bringing own bicycleUSD$-169
  • Electric Bike Supplement (on request, limited availability)USD$180
  • Kelowna airport transfer supplementUSD$180
  • Single SupplementUSD$410
  • Solo traveller supplementUSD$1380
* Prices listed are per person. All prices subject to applicable taxes.

Trip reviews

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Our Expertise

Everyone who works with us, from our office staff, ground staff and guides is the ‘’real deal’’. Our team is comprised of actual hikers and cyclists who have explored or live in the region in which you will be traveling. Our entire network is highly-specialised in active travel.

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Quality services at the best price make our active trips great value for money. Having essential items included like National Park fees, accommodations, most meals, bikes for cycling trips, maps and support for peace of mind. Our inclusions allow you to better budget for your big adventure.

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Videos

Cycling the Kettle Valley Rail Trail with Great Canadian Trails