Gemma’s Trans Canada Trail: Winter in Penticton
Written by Gemma Taylor
My hometown, Penticton, British Columbia, enjoys milder, less snowy winters than many people expect. When snow does fall at lake level, it usually doesn’t stick around long. Hiking throughout the winter is therefore pretty easy, especially since the Trans Canada Trail travels right through this small Okanagan Valley city.
In the Penticton area, the Trans Canada Trail largely follows the route of the historic Kettle Valley Railway (KVR), which was built in the early 1900s to transport fruit, ore, and passengers between Hope and Midway. Hikers, cyclists and horseback riders all appreciate the wide paths and easy railway grades (no more than 2 per cent%).
Okanagan Lake Waterfront, Penticton
The Trans Canada Trail runs along the Okanagan Lake waterfront promenade for almost 2 kilometres, showcasing beautiful views of the water, parks, artworks and landmarks that line the route. Incredibly popular with local residents and visitors alike, my partner and I walk it almost every day in winter.
Highlights include the SS Sicamous, a fully restored 100-year-old sternwheeler; the iconic giant peach concession; a 68-metre-long walking pier; and a railway trestle bridge topped with a Toriigate. The latter provides access to the Ikeda Japanese Garden, a worthy detour.
The Trans Canada Trail Pavilion in Okanagan Lake Park heralds the end of this waterfront stretch. Paved and completely flat, this Trail section is the most accessible in Penticton. There’s plenty of free parking along the entire route and the paths are usually promptly cleared by city staff after snowfall.
Photo credit: Off Track Travel
Okanagan Lake Waterfront to Vancouver Place via Penticton Creek, Penticton
Another paved section of the Trans Canada Trail leads south from the Trail Pavilion along Penticton Creek. Maintenance teams also try to keep this route free of snow.
After 1.3 kilometres, the Trans Canada Trail crosses a footbridge to Pickering Street and then ascends gently to a lookout above the city, forested mountains and Okanagan Lake. We always spot a lot of deer in this area, even during the winter months. Return along the same route for a 4.4-kilometre return trip.
Photo credit: Off Track Travel
Vancouver Place to the McCulloch Trestle, Penticton
This 5-kilometre out-and-back walk combines spectacular views and history. It’s my favourite section of the Trans Canada Trail in Penticton, and I love that it is just as enjoyable to explore in winter as it is during the warmer months.
Starting at Vancouver Place, the very wide, flat gravel path winds along the side of the Naramata Bench hillside, passing below the iconic Penticton sign. Panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the city of Penticton abound.
Around the 2-kilometre mark, the trail meanders through vineyards and up and down a couple of small hills until it reaches the McCulloch Trestle. Named for the Kettle Valley Railway’s Chief Engineer, this wooden railway bridge showcases even more wonderful vistas.
Photo credit: Off Track Travel
The Little Tunnel, Naramata
For a longer hike with a great payoff at the midpoint, head to the Little Tunnel section of the Trans Canada Trail. Located in the hills above Naramata, this 8.8 kilometre out-and-back trail starts on Smethurst Road and leads north to a rugged rock railway tunnel.
The wide path is slightly uphill all the way to the tunnel (downhill on the way back!), with sweeping views of local vineyards and Okanagan Lake as you go. Situated at 900 metres elevation, this TCT section usually receives more snow and retains it longer.
Fenwick Road to Conkle Mountain Gazebo, Summerland
The Trans Canada Trail wraps around the base of Mount Conkle in Summerland before continuing west towards Princeton. A lovely, easy hike starts at Fenwick Road and leads along a slightly uphill section of the trail to a gazebo (3 kilometres out-and-back).
The views from this little wooden structure are surprisingly impressive, considering the short walk to reach it. The gazebo looks out to Prairie Valley, an area of Summerland filled with orchards and vineyards. Okanagan Lake can be spotted just behind the rise of the land, behind Giant’s Head Mountain.
Photo credit: Off Track Travel
Winter walking tips
• City trails are well lit with overhead streetlights. For the others, I’d recommend bringing a headlamp, just in case. The days are short, and the light fades fast.
• Winter weather conditions vary a lot in this area. While the city trails can remain clear for weeks at a time, one snowfall is enough to cover them. In recent winters, snow doesn’t usually stay very long (up to a week during cold snaps) at lake level.
• Microspikes or ice cleats are helpful for navigating snowy or icy paths.
Gemma Taylor is an outdoor adventure travel blogger based in Penticton, British Columbia. Happiest on the trail or with a canoe paddle in her hand, Gemma simply loves to be outside, the further off the beaten path the better! Visit Off Track Travel for detailed adventure guides, road trip itineraries and to learn more about hiking in BC’s Okanagan Valley.
Getting outside is good for your inside! Turn your winter blahs to Ahhhs on the Trans Canada Trail.
At Trans Canada Trail, we advocate, steward and champion Canada’s nationwide trail system, providing leadership and guidance, funding and resources, outreach and engagement. We work to expand access to nature, improve visitor experience, and ensure people across Canada can safely enjoy outdoor spaces for generations to come.
Main photo credit: Off Track Travel
