Off the Beaten Path

Off the Beaten Path

We are fortunate in the Okanagan Valley to live within an hour or two of some amazing hikes that take one up into mountain ranges, alpine meadows, and off the beaten path of more popular hiking spots in the region.
 
Some amazing hikes are located along the Coquihalla highway. The highway snakes through the Cascade Mountain range, and alongside a portion of the Coquihalla River. Jim Kelly Peak begins on the Tulameen Forest Service Road, and grinds uphill to subalpine meadows. Loose shale, uphill scrambles, and way-finding are required to experience all that Jim Kelly Peak has to offer. This 17.4 km route is worth the cardio challenge for the breath-taking views of the alpine ponds, meadows, peaks, and ridges.

Also up off the Coquihalla Highway is Needle, offering hikers a challenging 9.6 km trek, which includes amazing views of the Cascades, Coast Mountains, and even Mount Baker in Washington State on a clear day. Due to the elevation of both of these hikes, it is best to tackle them between June and September. As always, be prepared for sudden weather changes while exploring mountainous regions. 

Located just outside of the town of Falkland, Estekwalan Mountain offers hikers with a challenging ascent to un-paralled views of the town and surrounding valley. Hikers can meander through alpine meadows, and along jagged rocky outcrops on this 8.22 km route. 

Further to the north, south of the city of Salmon Arm, is Mt. Ida. At 1564 meters above sea level, Mt. Ida provides hikers with challenging ascents, scrambles, and breath taking views of the Shuswap and beyond. The trail takes hikers through subalpine meadows, along marshes, ponds, and up rocky outcrops and cliffs. Split into short, West and East Peak hikes that are spectacular, the road to the trailhead can be a deterrent. The West Peak is 0.9 km, while the East Peak trail is 3 km one way, and includes steep drop offs and a challenging ascent. An option is to park lower and hike in along the rough 4x4 road. This would extend the hike by 3.5 km, but make for a much less strenuous trip for your vehicle.  Watch for overgrowth on the trail and blowdown debris. 

These are only a few of the more remote adventures hikers can have all within an hour or two of Kelowna. Spectacular views, breath-taking vistas, combined with an arduous cardiovascular workout!