Kelowna is more than just a great wine city—it's also the perfect gateway to some of the Okanagan Valley's most memorable day trips. There's certainly no shortage of fun, unique options for what to do in Kelowna any time of year, but it just so happens there are also dozens of nearby destinations within a short drive (or bike ride!). Nestled in the heart of downtown and the shores of Okanagan Lake, The Royal Kelowna serves as an ideal jumping-off point for exploring many of them. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, a family with little ones, or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, here are seven of the best day trips from Kelowna.
Okanagan Rail Trail
Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com
Distance from Kelowna: The start (or end) of the trail is right in downtown Kelowna
This 50-kilometer multi-use trail runs between Kelowna and Vernon, following the old railway line. It's consistently one of the most popular Kelowna attractions, showing off everything there is to love about the Okanagan Valley whether you walk, run, or cycle. Enjoy up-close views of vineyards, lakes, and mountains, regardless of which section you tackle. Plus, you can easily detour to grab a glass of wine or coffee along the way!
Insider tip: The Royal Kelowna guests can rent complimentary bicycles, part of our Stay® | Well amenities, and pick the trail up just a few blocks from the resort.
Myra Canyon Trestles
Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com
Distance from Kelowna: 24 km / 30 minutes
Year-round, one of the most popular Kelowna attractions is the Myra Canyon Trestles. Famous for its 18 historic trestle bridges and two tunnels, the trestles are part of the Kettle Valley Railway and today, have become a go-to destination for biking or taking a leisurely hike.
From May through October, Myra Canyon Bicycle Rentals and Tours offers guided tours, or you can take a shuttle from downtown Kelowna. The trestles are open in the winter, too, but you'll need a 4-wheel-drive vehicle with high clearance (and some snowshoes!).
Peachland
Distance from Kelowna: 25 km / 30 minutes
As its name suggests, the charming lakeside town of Peachland is celebrated for its sweet fruit wines and picture-perfect orchards. It's also one of the best day trips from Kelowna for families, home to Swim Bay, a top Okanagan Lake beach for little ones. You'll find ZipZone in Peachland, the highest ziplines in Canada, as well as several companies offering thrilling ATV tours. If you prefer something a little more laid-back, take the easy 2-kilometer 'hike' to beautiful Hardy Falls. In the fall, keep an eye out for spawning salmon.
Fintry Provincial Park
Distance from Kelowna: 38 km / 36 minutes
Located on the western shore of Okanagan Lake, Fintry Provincial Park is a gem with lots to explore. The park offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites, as it was once a hub for trappers and traders along the Hudson's Bay Company route. Wander the grounds of the Fintry Estate, including the Manor House, packing house, and century-old barns, to get a glimpse into the region's past. Better yet, take a self-guided tour (available Wednesday through Sunday).
The park also features a sandy beach with designated areas for swimming, fishing, and paddling, as well as a stunning waterfall and popular hike to reach it. Technically, there are three waterfalls in the gorge, but only one is accessible. With multiple tiers, Fintry Falls is quite dramatic, and the wooden staircase 'trail' with over 400 steps makes it even more so! The trail and falls alone attract many people on day trips from Kelowna.
Davison Orchards Country Village - Vernon
Distance from Kelowna: 56 km / 50 minutes
Head north to Vernon and spend a day at Davison Orchards Country Village, a delightful, wholesome destination for all ages. This family-owned farm (since 1933, by the way!) offers guided orchard tours on an old-fashioned train, a petting zoo, a huge one-acre children's play area, plus tons of fresh, locally grown produce, fresh-pressed 100% apple cider, made-from-scratch real fruit ice cream, and baked goodies like pies and muffins.
The orchards make one of the best day trips from Kelowna in just about any season, with u-pick pumpkins and apples in the fall, orchard blossoms in the spring, and the bountiful harvest season come summer.
Oliver and Baldy Mountain Resort
Distance from Kelowna: 102 km / 1.5 hours
Yes, Kelowna is a highly-regarded wine region, where winemaking started in British Columbia. But Oliver is actually "Canada's wine capital," making it one of the most worthwhile day trips from Kelowna. In addition to the 40-plus wineries, renowned for bold red varietals like syrah, a trip to Baldy Mountain Resort is a must.
Baldy is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding with fewer crowds than larger BC resorts. During the summer, the paths crisscrossing the mountain transform to hiking and mountain biking trails, and many people enjoy scenic lift rides, disc golf, and volleyball.
Osoyoos
Distance from Kelowna: 124 km / 1 hour 50 minutes
Just a bit further south from Oliver, Osoyoos is home to Canada's only desert. Seeing that unique landscape and climate alone is worth making Osoyoos one of your day trips from Kelowna! Stop by Nk’Mip Cellars (pronounced Inka-meep), the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America, to get a literal taste of both exceptional wines and local heritage.
TheNk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre is also worth a visit for its fascinating exhibits and guided tours. Take advantage of the unusually warm waters of Osoyoos Lake with a beach day, paddleboarding, or swimming, or get a birds'-eye view of this unique fertile desert region by heading up to Anarchist Mountain Lookout.
Before heading out, remember to take advantage of our Stay® | Well amenities. Grab a bike, some beach gear, umbrellas, or snowshoes to make your day trips from Kelowna even more enjoyable. Check out our current promotions and book your stay at The Royal Kelowna today!
