Looking for some really great day hikes in the North Okanagan that are family-friendly? There are a handful within very close driving distance of Vernon. Here are a few of our favourites.

Rattlesnake point, Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park – This is a 3.9 km loop with 155 metre elevation gain. It takes you up to a viewpoint where you will find yourself admiring the lake. After this the trail takes you down to the beach to cool off before arriving back at the parking lot. This trail is the perfect length to get your heart rate up a bit and then stop off at the beach to relax.

BX Falls – This has two different access points. You can park at the upper parking lot to make the hike to the falls and back 1 km, or park at the bottom at hike up to the falls making it a 6.8 km hike there and back. It’s the perfect place to beat the summer heat, but can also be visited almost year round. The stairs do get a bit iced up and slick in the winter.

Bluenose mountain – This is a 4.5 km, 329 metre, loop that does have a bit of steep uphill, but you are rewarded at the south facing first lookout over the Aberdeen Plateau. Continuing on to the second main lookout you gaze upon beautiful views of the Monashee Mountain Range as well as the valley below can be seen from here. There is no water access on the trail so bring lots.

Aberdeen columns – This is a 1 km, 51 metre, out and back hike to some magnificent lichen coloured, pentagonal-shaped columns. The final push to the base of the columns is a bit of a scramble, but if taken slow very doable with kids.

Cougar Canyon – This 2.7 km, 137 metre, out and back trail gets you out to the base of some amazing cliffs where it’s a rock climbers haven. There is also option to hike up top to take in the views of Kalamalka Lake. It’s a pleasant morning hike as the summer temperatures get quite hot with minimal shade. We tend to do this one more shoulder season for this reason.

So if you find yourself in the North Okanagan and want to get a hike in then put these on your list of must dos. They all have their own rewarding views and uniqueness.

You will find most of these on the TrailCollectiv app. It’s an app full of family-friendly hikes, with all the trail details for families made by families, so you know you are getting the real information when hiking these trails with kids in tow.

Use our affiliate code RESTLESSCRUSADE to save 20% on both the yearly and/or monthly subscription. Download the app today and get out to see some of these beautiful places.