Guide to Travel Vernon, British Columbia
About Vernon, Okanagan Valley, Canada
The city of Vernon, British Columbia is a picturesque and charming place nestled in the Okanagan Valley. It's home to an array of lakeside and mountain views that make it perfect for outdoor activities like skiing/snowboarding in winter and hiking/biking/swimming in summer. The bustling city center is home to a population of over 40,000 people, but it’s more like 60,000 if you include the metro area. It offers an abundance of culture and arts and friendly locals who take pride in their community. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or seeking adventure, Vernon has something to offer.
The area boasts stunning landscapes filled with pine forests, crystal clear waters, and snow-capped peaks – it truly is a sight to behold! Visitors can explore the unique ecosystem by visiting one of the many parks throughout the region; Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park offers breathtaking vistas of turquoise blue waters while Ellison Provincial Park provides ample opportunities for swimming, hiking, and more. And don’t forget about the nearby wineries – enjoy sampling local wines from award-winning vineyards that produce some of Canada’s finest varieties.
Vernon truly has something for everyone; whether you’re looking to relax or be adventurous there are plenty of activities available at your fingertips! From its vibrant cultural scene to gorgeous scenery, this destination promises visitors a memorable experience they won't soon forget – so come visit us today!
Our website is supported by our users. We sometimes earn a commission when you click through the affiliate links on our website. This is at no extra cost to our users
Exploratory Glory YouTube Channel
What is the Weather Like in Vernon
The weather in Vernon, British Columbia is usually hot, dry, and sunny during the summer months with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). Winters are typically cool and wet, with temperatures averaging around -2°C (28°F) and snowfall occurring throughout the season. Spring brings milder temperatures and rain while fall days tend to be dry with cool nights.
History of Vernon
The current area of Vernon has been inhabited for thousands of years and was once called Nintle-Moos-Chin by the indigenous Syeelhwh people, which directly translates to “jumping over creek”. The European history of Vernon dates back to the early-1800s when colonizers began settling in the area. The city was eventually named after a prominent member of the region Forbes George Vernon and was officially incorporated in 1892. It quickly developed into a bustling agricultural hub known for its fruits, vegetables, and other products. Since then it has grown to become a major center for tourism due to its great weather and its proximity to Okanagan Lake, Kalamalka Lake, and the Monashee Mountains. Over the years Vernon has attracted visitors from all over Canada and beyond with its natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and wide range of activities – making it a truly unique destination!
How to Get to Vernon
Vernon can be reached by air or car. The nearest major airport is the Kelowna International Airport which has direct flights from around Canada and the United States. From there you can rent a car to drive to Vernon – this should take approximately one hour depending on traffic. Alternatively, you could also take a bus from downtown Kelowna to Vernon if driving is not an option for you!
What to do in Vernon
Vernon has plenty to do for visitors! The city is home to great wineries, museums, galleries, and a vibrant cultural scene. There are also many outdoor activities available including skiing/snowboarding in winter or swimming/hiking/biking in summer. Other popular attractions include an exciting festival called the Sunshine Festival which takes place every year in the summer and alternatively the Winter Carnival in the winter. There are also numerous shopping opportunities at the nearby outlet mall and of course beautiful parks where you can relax and take in the scenery.
Top 10 attractions in Vernon
Vernon is one of British Columbia’s most beautiful cities and visitors from around the world come to explore its many sights and sounds. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, indoor family entertainment, or luxurious spa escapes – there truly is something for everyone here. To help plan your visit here are our picks for the top ten attractions in Vernon:
1. Davison Orchards Country Village is worth a visit if you find yourself in Vernon as it offers farm-fresh produce along with seasonal events such as U-Pick days when guests can pick their own fruits! This exciting spot also features a petting zoo, and even an onsite cafe selling homemade food items throughout the summer months making it an ideal place to spend an afternoon with friends or family alike.
2. The Rise Golf Course located nearby provides golfers of all ages plenty of challenge while taking in breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake during each round played at this lushly landscaped club featuring multiple tee boxes perfect for both beginners as well as pros.
3. Silver Star Mountain Resort has been thrilling skiers since 1953 thanks to its abundance of powdery trails winding down some of Canada’s best trails, but that isn't all. This resort also features snow tubing lanes, boarder cross courses, and night skiing opportunities so make sure not to miss out on these unique experiences too during your stay here.
4. Predator Ridge Golf Resort should be the next stop on the bucket list because golf courses don't get much better than those found here which include two championship 18-hole courses plus a driving range. The resort features stunning natural surroundings which will provide ample distraction between shots. Even if you’re not a golfer you can enjoy one of the many hiking trails that lead to awe inspiring views of Okanagan Lake.
5. Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa is one not be missed, thanks to its collection of decadent treatments inspired by European healing therapies combined with breathtaking views over Lake Okanagan offered from every room booked at this incredible property. To top it off l this resort is located just minutes away from the downtown Vernon area which is full of shops, restaurants and bars.
6. The Okanagan Science Centre is an interactive learning center based around fun kid-friendly science experiments. The center offers a variety of activities for all ages including hands-on experiments and engaging multimedia exhibits that explore various scientific topics. From astronomy to zoology, there's enough to the kiddos occupied with fun and learning!
7. Planet Bee Honey Farm and Meadery is a unique farm that specializes in producing delicious honey made from over 100 different types of flowers along with high-quality meads and ciders. Visitors to Planet Bee can take part in fascinating beekeeping tours where they’ll get to learn about the amazing world of bees while getting an up-close look at their hives. There are also plenty of activities for kids such as hands-on honey harvesting, taste testing various kinds of honey, and learning how to identify different flowers responsible for making each one. As well as its lovely location, visitors can enjoy strolling through the property’s organic gardens or relaxing under trees during the summer months.
8. Historic O’Keefe Ranch is a must-see attraction that was established during the 18th-century gold rush era and has been preserved with great care ever since. Visitors to Historic O’Keefe Ranch can explore old buildings which are full of artifacts that tell stories about its past. There are also plenty of activities for those looking to enjoy nature such as horseback riding along scenic trails. Popular yearly events include rodeos, concerts, and the famous Haunted Corn Maze, a hit during Halloween.
9. Allan Brooks Nature Centre is a family-friendly attraction with plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. Visitors can explore miles of grassland trails and observe a wide variety of plant and animal life native to the area. The center also offers educational programs such as birding classes or workshops on identifying wildflowers providing an excellent way for kids to learn more about nature in a fun setting.
10. Splashdown Vernon Family Waterpark is a great place for families to have some fun and cool off in the hot summer months. Located just outside of town, this water park features a wide variety of slides and pools that are suitable for all ages. Highlights include the River Riot which provides an adrenaline rush as you cruise down the slide. Kids can also enjoy the Interactive Playground where they can climb, jump and slide through various obstacles. With plenty of food options such as fries and ice cream bars, Splashdown Vernon Family Waterpark is sure to provide hours of fun for everyone during their visit!
Middleton Mountain
Hiking in Vernon
Vernon is a great location for hikers! The city offers an abundance of trails suitable for all skill levels and preferences. Popular hiking spots include the Kalamalka Lake Provincial which takes you to stunning viewpoints with panoramic views of the lake, as well as Ellison Provincial Park which features numerous trails and beautiful red sand beaches. If you’re looking for something more challenging, the High Rim Trail is another great option boasting nearly 55 km of trails leading through the deep Okanagan wilderness. No matter what route you choose, there are plenty of hiking opportunities here – so don't miss out on exploring this beautiful area!
1. The BX Creek and Falls Trail is a popular hiking destination with tourists and locals alike. Situated just outside the city of Vernon, this moderately challenging trail offers stunning canyon landscapes with lush vegetation and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
The trail begins at the base of SilverStar Mountain and reaching BX Falls is an easy 5-minute climb down and many people stop here. The trail then continues on and it winds its way through a lush canyon toward Dixon Dam at the end where you can take a dip in the deep pools at certain times of the year. Along the hike, hikers will be treated to breathtaking scenes of vibrant green forest and small waterfalls of crystal clear water where you can take a dip and cool off from the summer heat.
While more experienced hikers can complete this 7.4 km loop in 3 hours, those who want to take their time are encouraged to do so; this trail has plenty of interesting sights to explore. There are entrances to the trail at both the north and south ends, so you may see the falls right away or hike the entire trail from the south before you see them. Once you reach the falls themselves – which stand tall at 34 meters high – you'll be met with incredible force especially in the spring during runoff and the mist from the falls is sure to provide a refreshing break from your trek.
2. The Grey Canal Trail is an easy trail offering stunning views of the city of Vernon and Okanagan Lake, as well as providing plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A former canal for transporting water around to the local orchards, the now defunct waterways serves perfectly as a local attraction and makes the perfect hiking trail. The trail has several sections around town and makes its way through breathtaking vistas of rolling hills dotted with wildflowers as you look out over Okanagan Lake and beyond. During the hike, you'll be met with tranquil scenery that's sure to provide a refreshing break from the bustling city.
Rattlesnake Point, Kalamalaka Lake Provincial Park
3. Cosens Bay Trail, located in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, is a stunning and diverse hiking trail perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This picturesque trail offers amazing lake views, abundant wildlife, and plenty of opportunities to explore the pristine beauty of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley.
Cosens Bay Trail features a variety of terrains and ecosystems including gorgeous grasslands, patches of forests, idyllic white sand beaches bordered by rocky cliffs, shallow ponds fed by natural springs from the surrounding hillsides, and wide open meadows that are perfect for admiring spectacular sunsets over Kalamalka Lake. The trail itself is well-marked with signs at every major junction so it's easy to stay on track no matter where you are in the park.
Along this 7-kilometer round trip route there are several lookouts where visitors can soak up breathtaking views across Kalamalka Lake towards Predator Ridge Golf Course. Bird lovers will be delighted as they spot bald eagles soaring overhead while deer roam through nearby meadows munching on wildflowers. You may even see bears and cougars off in the distance, hopefully!
4. Ellison Provincial Park is a stunning outdoor paradise located 15 minutes out of town. This beautiful park offers an abundance of hiking trails with amazing scenic views, making it perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
The main attraction at Ellison Provincial Park is its six main hiking trails which offer everything from easy walks to challenging climbs. Other attractions of the park is its 4 beautiful red sand beaches that lie on the shores of breathtaking Okanagan Lake.
In addition to its beautiful hiking trails, Ellison Provincial Park also has an abundance of campsites where visitors can relish their time outdoors even more by setting up camp under starlit skies or enjoy some fishing in the lovely Okanagan sun. Other activities include mountain biking on designated routes through the forest, some of which lead up to Predator Ridge via the Ellison Connector.
5. Predator Ridge offers numerous trails with breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for adventure.
The popular Predator Ridge Trail System boasts over 30 kilometers of scenic pathways winding their way through pine forests, meadows full of wildflowers, and ravines where you can explore the unique Okanagan ecosystem - all while enjoying majestic mountain views that are sure to take your breath away. Along these amazing trails, such as the Longspoon Loop visitors will find several lookout points which offer perfect spots for rest stops or simply admiring the scenery around them. Yoga enthusiasts will be happy to learn that there are two yoga platforms on Predator Ridge that anybody is free to hike up and enjoy.
6. Cougar Canyon is an amazing place to explore nature through hiking and rock climbing. .
The popular Cougar Canyon Trail System boasts kilometers of scenic pathways winding their way through forests, open meadows, and ravines where you can look down onto Kalamlaka Lake - all while enjoying majestic mountain views. Along these amazing trails, visitors will find several lookout points which offer perfect spots for rest stops or simply admiring the scenery around them. Those willing to put in the effort and trek deep into the canyon will find 6 small lakes to explore.
In addition to its incredible hiking trails, Cougar Canyon also has other activities available such as rock climbing on designated routes.
7. Middleton Mountain is a popular park within the city that offers scenic pathways winding their way through fields of colorful wildflowers, and spectacular viewpoints that look out over Kalamalka Lake and Swan Lake. This particular trail system is great for those first timers to Vernon as it provides the perfect glimpse into how beautiful the area truly is.
8. Rim Rocks Trail is a moderately difficult route with some very difficult sections. It is located in the nearby community of Coldstream just outside of Vernon. It is situated in the mountain area known as King Edward or “King Eddy” locally. The trail leads hikers through dense forests abundant in vibrant green moss. After stopping at a few incredible lookouts the trail will lead down into an volcano where you’ll be able to explore the ancient geology and stare in wonder at the unique rock spires that litter the lava field.
9. Okanagan Rail Trail is a multi-use recreation trail that extends for over 50 km along from Vernon to Kelowna passing by Kalamalka Lake, Wood Lake, and Ellison Lake on the way. It's popular with hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders looking to explore the region's natural beauty. One popular activity that shouldn’t be overlooked is to visit the Kalavida Board Shop and rent an E-bike to ride along the Okanagan Rail Trail.
10. SilverStar Mountain The popular SilverStar Mountain Trail System boasts over twenty-five kilometers of scenic pathways like the Ridgewalk Trail winding their way through lush forests, meadows full of wildflowers, and ravines where you can look down over the valley. Visitors can ride the chairlift up the mountain enjoying insane views on the way. Once up top they can hike down one of the many trails leadingl back to the village.
In addition to its incredible hiking trails, SilverStar also has many activities available such as downhill mountain biking on designated routes and tracks.
Kekuli Bay Provincial Park
Beaches in Vernon
Vernon has plenty of beaches to explore! It is home to several stunning lakefronts such as the most popular spots Kal Beach, Kin Beach, and Ellison Provincial Park. For something more low-key you can visit Kekuli Bay Provincial Park which boasts breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear turquoise water. No matter what type of beach experience you’re after, Vernon will have something that fits the bill!
Jade Bay Beach is located within Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park and is easily accessible by a short 5-minute hike through the woods. It boasts picnic tables, an outhouse, and plenty of room to throw down a beach towel and enjoy the mountain views of the lovely Okanagan Valley.
Juniper Bay Beach is also situated within Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park’s borders. It is the ideal locale for a family picnic, providing access to a sandy beach, public toilets, a large grassy field, and some of the bluest water you’ll ever lay your eyes on. On your visit keep your eyes peeled for various wildlife species including deer, cougars, bears, rattlesnakes, and much more.
Kin Beach offers additional waterfront fun such as stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking but also plenty of family-friendly opportunities like the large playground and swing sets that the kids are sure to love. The park also features public fire pits for barbecues, picnic tables, and a large gazebo for family celebrations.
Cosens Bay Beach is a stunning stretch of golden-hued sand backed by the stunning scenery of grasslands and rocky outcroppings. It's one of the most popular beaches in the area due to its picturesque scenery, crystal-clear waters, and warm temperatures. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, or other water sports in the calm waters here, as well as fishing around the sheltered cove for various species of fish. This beach is also part of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park and can only be reached by hiking or boating in
Hurlburt Park is a small but charming park on Okanagan Lake that features a dock and plenty of picnic tables to relax or enjoy the scenery. The park is a popular spot for locals who come here to walk their dogs or take part in other outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, kayaking and more.
These are just some of the more popular options for beaches in Vernon. If you desire a more quiet beach day, then here is a more comprehensive guide to the Beaches of Vernon.
Restaurants in Vernon
Vernon is home to a wide range of unique restaurants that are sure to please any palate. From cozy pubs and casual eateries serving up local specialties like BC salmon and dishes made with Okanagan fruits to fine dining establishments featuring the best in local ingredients prepared with care. There are menu options that feature locally-sourced produce as well as dishes inspired by other cultures.
Here are some of the best restaurants in Vernon
Range Lounge and Grill
Cuisine: International, Bar, Grill
Rating: 4.5/5
Bamboo Beach Fusion Grill
Cuisine: Japanese, Asian, Canadian
Rating: 4.5/5
Intermezzo Restaurant
Cuisine: Italian, Canadian
Rating: 4.5/5
Lynn’s Vietnamese Restaurant
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Rating: 4.5/5
Station BBQ Smokehouse
Cuisine: American, Southwestern, BBQ
Rating: 4.5/5
Suda Restaurant
Cuisine: Korean
Rating: 4.5/5
The Phoenix Steakhouse
Cuisine: Steakhouse, International, Canadian
Rating: 4.5/5
Hotels in Vernon
Vernon is home to some of the most stunning scenery and unique attractions in Canada. As such, it’s no surprise that this picturesque Canadian city is also home to an array of incredible hotels and resorts for visitors to choose from. From luxurious five-star resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts nestled amongst rolling vineyards and orchards – there really is something for everyone here.
Here are some of the best hotels in Vernon
Sparkling Hill Resort and Spa
Amenities: Pool, Free Breakfast, Shuttle Service, Free WIFI, Fitness Center, Room Service, Spa
Rating: 4/5 (Luxury)Riviera Plaza and Conference Centre
Amenities: Fitness Center, Free WIFI
Rating: 4/5 (Budget-Friendly)Prestige Hotel Vernon
Amenities: Pool, Bar and Lounge, Fitness Center, Shuttle Service, Car Rentals
Rating: 4/5 (Mid-Range)The Castle at Swan Lake
Amenities: Pool, Games Room, Free WIFI
Rating: 4.5/5 (Luxury)Fairfield Inn and Suites
Amenities: Pool, Free Breakfast, Fitness Centre, Bicycle Rental, Free WIFI
Rating: 4/5 (Mid-Range)
More Travel Articles
