Hike andcycle on more than 60 miles (100 kilometres) of purpose-built paths atMyra-Bellevue Provincial Park. Discover historic remnants of the area’s formerrailway and view animals such as moose, elk and grizzly bears in their naturalhabitat.
Establishedin 2001, Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park covers more than 19,000 acres (7,700hectares) of forest, meadow and lake around the Okanagan Basin. The park was damagedby a major forest fire in 2003, but has largely recovered and continues toprovide a vital eco-system in British Columbia.
Jump on abike and explore the abandoned Kettle Valley Railway. Bring your own bike orfind a number of bike rental shops at the park. The former railway bed isnearly 400 miles (650 kilometres) long and offers stunning views of theOkanagan Valley. As you make your way along the path, you will notice woodentrestles used during the construction of the old railway. You may also find oldrock ovens where rail workers baked bread while they worked. Stop for a breakat 14 different wildlife viewpoints spread along the trail to see various birdsof prey as well as moose and elk in the fields.
Explorethe park’s four other scenic trails. If you don’t want to walk or cycle, youcan join a horse-riding tour of the valley, departing from the stables in MyraCanyon. In winter, explore the park with cross-country skis or snowshoes.
Howeveryou get there, the climb to the top of Little White Mountain is worth theeffort for the spectacular views over Okanagan Valley. On your way you’ll passthe idyllic Crawford Falls. Make your way to Angel Springs to see the unusualsink holes and caves formed into the rock.
Myra-BellevueProvincial Park is approximately a 30-minute drive southeast from Kelowna. Thereis a parking lot at the park’s entrance. Admission is free and the park is openall day throughout the year.