Sure, Kelowna is best known for its award-winning wineries and sparkling Okanagan Lake, but it's also a top destination for outdoor adventure.
From paddling and hiking to skiing and cycling, there's no shortage of ways to explore the region's spectacular landscapes. Among the area's most memorable experiences is the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, a historic route that combines railway history with breathtaking mountain scenery.
If you're planning to ride (or walk) the KVR trail Kelowna visitors rave about, The Royal Kelowna makes an excellent home base. Located right downtown, the resort is just a short drive from the trailhead, so it's easy to spend a day exploring Myra Canyon before returning to relax lakeside.
What is the Kettle Valley Rail Trail?
The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is one of British Columbia's most iconic recreational trails. Originally part of the Kettle Valley Railway in the early 1900s, the decommissioned rail line now stretches approximately 660 kilometres (410 miles) from Hope to Castlegar, connecting communities, mountains, and vineyards.
Today, the trail is popular with cyclists, hikers, walkers, trail runners, and, in winter, snowshoers and fat bikers. The route largely follows the railway's original gentle grade, making it accessible for varying fitness levels. Expect a well-maintained combination of packed gravel and wooden trestles, plus scenic overlooks—lots of spots to take breaks!
The section most visitors explore from Kelowna is the Myra Canyon segment, within Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park Day Use Area about 24 kilometres (15 miles), or 40 minutes, southeast of downtown. This stretch is widely considered the highlight of the entire trail and is one of the most popular bike trails Kelowna has to offer. The route features 18 restored wooden trestle bridges, two tunnels, and panoramic canyon views throughout the ride. If you complete the full section, you'll travel 12.5 kilometres (7.8 miles) one way, or 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) round-trip.
What to Expect on the Trail
The Myra Canyon portion of the trail is famous for its scenery, but it's also super approachable. Because it follows the original railway, the grade is gentle with few steep climbs. It's suitable for families, casual cyclists, and experienced riders. While cycling is the most popular activity, you'll also see people walking, jogging, or simply admiring the views from trestle bridges and overlooks.
There are two main access points: Myra Station, the primary trailhead, and Ruth Station. You'll also find pit toilets at several locations, but there is no drinking water, so bring plenty of your own.
Bike Rentals Near the Trail
Don't have your own bike? Renting one is easy! Myra Canyon Bike Rentals is right at the trail entrance in the Myra Station parking lot, accessed via McCulloch Road and Myra Forest Service Road.
Rental options include traditional bicycles, e-bikes, tandem bikes, and child trailers. During the busy summer season and fall leaf-peeping weekends, rentals frequently sell out, so it's a good idea to reserve your bike ahead of time.
Note that reservations must be made by midnight the day before; same-day rentals are first-come, first-served only.
If you prefer to explore the trail with a group or guide, the company also offers a variety of half- and full-day tours.
Best Time to Visit
The Myra Canyon section of the trail is open year-round, with each season offering a remarkably different experience.
Summer is the busiest time to visit, thanks to warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal weather conditions. If you're visiting Kelowna for wine touring or a lakeside vacation, adding a morning or sunset ride on the trail makes for an easy day trip.
Autumn is another favourite season, as the surrounding forests come alive with vibrant fall colours. It's one of the most scenic times to experience the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, especially if you're hoping to enjoy British Columbia's spectacular annual leaf-peeping season.
Spring typically brings cooler temperatures, more unpredictable weather, and fewer crowds, while winter transforms the trail into a destination for snowshoeing and fat biking when snow blankets the historic trestles and surrounding forest.
What to Pack
Because Myra Canyon sits at a higher elevation than downtown Kelowna, temperatures are often about 3 to 4°C (5 to 7°F) cooler. Mountain weather also changes quickly, so it's smart to pack an extra layer, even on sunny days. A lightweight rain shell or windbreaker is a good choice throughout the year.
Bring plenty of water, ideally in a hydration pack or hydration vest, since there are no refill stations along the trail. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also essential, as the majority of the route is exposed to the sun.
If you're bringing your own bicycle, pack a basic repair kit and spare tube in case of a flat tire. If you're renting, ask the rental staff whether they provide emergency repair supplies or roadside assistance information before you head out (they likely do).
Ride the Rails, Then Relax by the Lake
After a day exploring one of BC's most memorable cycling routes, there's nothing better than returning to a comfortable place to unwind.
The Royal Kelowna is an ideal basecamp for discovering the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (and all the other Kelowna activities and attractions!), offering the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Located in the heart of downtown on the shores of Okanagan Lake, the all-suite resort features spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom accommodations with gourmet kitchens, private balconies, separate bedrooms, and even in-suite laundry—ideal for active travellers who appreciate a little extra room to spread out after a day outdoors. You can also unwind on the rooftop terrace, take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool overlooking the lake, or enjoy easy access to Kelowna's waterfront, restaurants, and shops.
Whether you're planning to cycle the KVR trail Kelowna is known for, explore local wineries, or simply soak up the beauty of the Okanagan, The Royal Kelowna puts you close to it all.
Book your stay today and discover why it's the perfect jumping-off point for your next Kelowna adventure.
