The Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail is one of the British Columbia’s most iconic adventures — a mix of breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and endless opportunities to stop and explore. The KVR Trail has its roots in the old Kettle Valley Railway, built by the Canadian Pacific Railway between 1910 and 1916. Back then, it was designed to connect BC’s mineral-rich interior with the coast, cutting through rugged mountains to move ore and lumber. The last train ran in 1989, and once the tracks were removed, the route was reborn as the KVR Trail—a scenic pathway now loved by hikers, bikers, and anyone looking to explore the beauty of the region.
While the full trail stretches for hundreds of kilometers, the section that runs through Penticton and the South Okanagan offers a perfect slice of what makes the KVR so special. Whether you’re cycling or enjoying a leisurely stroll, this route is dotted with can’t-miss landmarks, breathtaking views, wineries and beaches.
Start your journey in Penticton, BC. This charming city is home to a multitude of bike rental companies that are happy to get you geared up for a day full of exploring. Go at your own pace and choose your own adventure, or take part in a guided tour lead by a local pro.
TIP: To save time and energy and cover more distance, consider traveling by e-bike!
Head North: The Naramata Bench and Beyond
Going north from Penticton along the KVR trail will take you on an adventure through rolling vineyards, winery and brewery stops, historic rock tunnels, and epic views of Okanagan lake and the city of Penticton.
Although there are a few connections you can make throughout town to join the KVR Trail, the easiest access to the KVR going north towards the Naramata Bench is located at Vancouver Place. This is a residential street and parking is limited. Biking to reach this connection is recommended.
TIP: The Vancouver Place KVR connection is just a short ride from numerous downtown bike rental spots, so go fuel-free and don’t worry about loading up the bikes or finding parking!
Sights & Stops
1) McCulloch Trestle
Crossing the McCulloch Trestle on the KVR Trail is like pedaling through history. Named after Andrew McCulloch, the engineer who carved the railway through the Okanagan’s rugged terrain in the early 1900s, this towering wooden bridge once carried steam trains high above the valley floor. Today, it offers cyclists and hikers a chance to experience a piece of local history with some pretty amazing views! From Penticton, you can reach the trestle by bike in about 15 minutes.
2) Abandoned Rail Brewing
Not far from downtown Penticton, you’ll find a unique stop right along the trail — Abandoned Rail Brewing. With direct access from the KVR trail, this craft brewery is a perfect mid-ride refreshment break. Enjoy a crisp, small-batch beer on their patio, paired with a wood fired pizza if you’re hungry! For those non-beer drinkers, they also offer a variety of local wine, ciders, and some great non-alcoholic options including their famous apple slushies! From Penticton, you can reach the brewery by bike in about 20 minutes.
Fun Fact: Abandoned Rail Brewing is one of just a handful of farm breweries in BC. Their beers are made using their home grown barley – which you’ll find growing right on the property!
3) Naramata Bench Wineries
There are plenty of wineries in Naramata, some which are easily accessed from the KVR Trail itself. A quick pedal — and a little climb — up Evans Avenue takes you to Ruby Blues Winery and Red Rooster Winery, while those who don’t mind a steeper terrain can roll down Poplar Grove Road to Creek & Gully Cidery. You can’t miss Hillside Winery & Bistro, with its tall cedar tower rising right beside the trail, and it’s a great place to stop for an elevated wine country lunch. And if you’re up for one more climb (this is where an e-bike really shines!), head up Sutherland Road to discover the hidden gem of Terravista Vineyards. From Penticton, these winery and cidery stop are all within an approximately 35 minute bike ride.
4) Little Tunnel
Total Distance from Penticton: ~16 km (Round Trip = ~32km)
As you continue north along the trail past Naramata, you’ll reach one of the KVR’s most photographed spots — the Little Tunnel. Carved through solid rock in 1915, it offers a sweeping view over Okanagan Lake and the valley below. This is a must-stop for photos, especially during golden hour when the light glows over the lake. There are a few picnic tables here as well to stop and have a snack and a rest as you revel in the amazing views! From Penticton, you can reach the Little Tunnel by bike in approximately 1-1.5 hours.
♿ Note: For those with accessibility considerations, you can reach the Little Tunnel via a nearby parking lot. Drive north on Naramata Road, turn right onto Chute Lake Road (which becomes gravel), and follow it to the Glenfir parking area. From there, take the West KVR exit to the parking lot near the tunnel, where a short 300m paved path leads directly to the viewpoint.
⚠️ Note: There is currently ongoing construction on the KVR trail between Glenfir Parking Lot and Adra Tunnel. Due to this, this section of the trail which has previously been open to motor vehicles is restricted to bike and foot traffic only. There is a semi-permanent by-pass around the construction zone so recreationalists will experience little disruptions in their journey. Keep watch for construction vehicles between the site and Glenfir Parking lot.
5) Rock Ovens Regional Park
Rock Ovens Regional Park features a series of stone and rock ovens constructed between 1911 and 1915. Explore a network of short hiking trails that lead to more than 10 historic ovens, originally built by immigrant workers during the construction of the Kettle Valley Railway to bake bread and provide meals for the railway workers.
6) Adra Tunnel
Total Distance from Penticton: ~30km (Round Trip = ~60km)
A little further on (about 13 more km), you’ll encounter the Adra Tunnel, an impressive 487 metre long horseshoe shaped tunnel. This longer, darker tunnel feels like a journey back in time, and holds some fun surprises as you walk through. Take note that the air in this tunnel is notably cooler than the temperature outside – even on a hot day. Remove your sun glasses and put your sweater on before entering. From Penticton, you can reach the Adra Tunnel by bike in approximately 2-2.5 hours.
7) Chute Lake Lodge
Total Distance: ~40km (Round Trip = ~80km)
Your northern end point, Chute Lake Lodge, is a rustic and charming destination in its own right. Nestled in the mountains above Naramata, the lodge offers hearty meals, cozy cabins, and plenty of opportunities for paddling, fishing, or simply relaxing by the fire. It’s the perfect place to refuel before your return trip or to spend the night for a longer adventure. From Penticton, you can reach Chute Lake Lodge by bike in approximately 3-3.5 hours.
Beyond Chute Lake Lodge…
Should you continue to venture North along the KVR Trail, another 40km will lead you to Kelowna’s Myra Canyon, which is home to 18 historic wooden trestles and two tunnels. Please be aware that KVR Trail from Chute Lake to Kelowna is open to motor vehicles and as such it is prone to less favorable cycling conditions including rocky, sandy, and uneven ground, so please ride with care!
For those that want to experience the full 80km stretch, consider booking a shuttle service with Hoodoo Adventure Company, who will provide you and your bike (they do bike rentals too!) with a ride to Myra Canyon in Kelowna, so you can ride the trail one way back, and end your journey in Penticton.
Head South: Penticton to OK Falls
Total Distance from Penticton: ~13km (Round Trip = ~26km)
The South Spur of the KVR Trail begins at Wright’s Beach Camp. This portion of the trail follows the shores of Skaha Lake all the way to Okanagan Falls, and is mostly flat with a just a few small hills as you traverse through Kaleden. Prepare to be immersed in the natural dessert landscape of the South Okanagan, surrounded by native plants and unaltered landscapes. Some sections of the trail are narrow, so take care and be mindful and courteous to oncoming travelers. Penticton summer’s bring the heat and luckily this route offers multiple opportunities to cool off with a swim Skaha Lake. This round trip bike ride from Penticton can be completed in approximately 1.5-2 hours.
TIP: Public parking is located across the street at the end of the Penticton River Channel, but is limited. Depending on where you are staying, consider leaving the keys at home and biking to reach the trail head. The lake-to-lake bike route or channel pathway are both great arteries to reach the starting point.
Sights & Stops
1) Kaleden Hotel Park
Perched on the shores of Skaha Lake, the historic Kaleden Hotel is one of the South Okanagan’s most fascinating landmarks. Built in 1911, the hotel closed just a few years later during the First World War and never reopened. In the late 1930s, much of its interior and building materials were removed, leaving behind the striking stone shell that still stands today. Preserved as part of Kaleden Hotel Park since 1979, the site has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Its dramatic ruins, lakeside setting, and rich history make it a favourite backdrop for photographers and a memorable venue for special events. From Penticton, you can reach the Kaleden Hotel Park by bike in approximately 30 minutes.
2) Pioneer Park & Beach
Kaleden’s main community park is accessible right off the trail and makes for a perfect for a mid-cycle pit stop. Here you’ll find a sandy beach (take a quick swim if you need a cool-off!), shady picnic spots, a gazebo, a playground, and a public washroom.
3) Ok Falls Trestle Bridge
A popular spot for locals and visitors, you’ll find one of the remaining trestle bridges just before you reach the town of OK Falls. The bridge is a little piece of railway history and a perfect reminder of why the KVR is such a special way to explore the South Okanagan. From Penticton, you can reach the OK Fall Trestle Bridge by bike in approximately 40 minutes.
4) Kenyon Park & Beach
Kenyon Park is the go-to beach in OK Falls, sitting right on the south end of Skaha Lake. With a sandy shoreline, shady picnic spots, a playground, and even a splash pad, it’s the perfect place to cool off after a ride on the KVR Trail. Easygoing and family-friendly, it’s got that relaxed small-town beach vibe.
5) Tickleberry’s in OK Falls
A bike ride to Okanagan Falls is not complete without a visit to the infamous and original Tickleberry’s location which is just a few minutes ride into town. Pick from over 72 flavors of ice cream, including homemade creations, sugar free options, paired with fresh made waffle cones and bowls. This quirky and fun shop also carries a variety of novelty gifts, toys and accessories you won’t find anywhere else! From Penticton, you can reach Tickleberry’s by bike in approximately 45 minutes.
KVR TRAIL MAPS
Printable PDF
You can download the map here.
Digital/Interactive
Tips for Enjoying the Trail
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall offers the most comfortable weather and open winery patios.
- What to Bring: Water, snacks, a camera, and layers for changing weather — especially if you’re making the climb toward Chute Lake in the spring or fall.
- Trail Conditions: The path is mostly gravel and well-maintained, but a hybrid or mountain bike is recommended for longer stretches.
Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or just someone who loves a great view, the South Okanagan portion of the KVR Trail delivers it all. With tunnels, trestles, tasting rooms, and some of the best scenery in British Columbia, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the region.
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