.short.walks
If you have small children or limitied time, consider the following walking areas. Each is just a short distance, the walks are flat and they have hard surfaces - perfect for evening strolls.
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Pioneer Walkway & Cottonwood Park
The volunteer efforts of many groups went into the creation and maintenance of these two public lakeshore parks - the first along motel strip on main street, the second along the beach on the way to the Nk'Mip Desert Centre. Beautiful gardens change with the season. Easy, short strolls with benches, picnic tables, and public washrooms. Both Parks are designed to help those persons living with disabilities to enjoy them too.
- Lakeshore Drive Pathway
Running parallel to the roadway and next to the waterfront, this paved pathway starts at the public access beach where the road makes a sharp left turn, and is perfect as an easy family biking route for those staying in the numerous RV campgrounds along Lakeshore Drive.
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.nature.trails
The excitement of seeing wildlife (in all its forms), or being intrigued by new and different plant varieties, is a large part of the experience. During the third week of May, the Meadowlark Festival is a naturalist's dream event with workshops, trips, and guided events. Check out these trails, particularly during spring and fall:
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Irrigation Canal Walkway
A popular 5 km round trip trail can be reached on 62nd Avenue just north of Osoyoos Secondary School. There is parking as you turn the corner adjacent to the trail sign. The trail meanders along an abandoned section of the irrigation canal that was once the lifeline for Osoyoos and opened up the area for the fruit industry. You can see the impact of this canal as one side of the trail remains in a natural state with sage and antelope brush, while the other side reveals the effect water has had on the land. The trail passes under highway 97 and by the old wood bridge that once welcomed motorists to Osoyoos.
Haynes Point Wetlands Trail
Located within Haynes Point Provincial Park (itself a pleasant destination for an on-road stroll, year round) this easy 1.5km gravel trail is designed for birdwatchers and other nature lovers. Pathways, a spotting tower, boardwalks and interpretive signs will heighten your appreciation for this precious wetland area. |
.desert.wilderness
Explore some wide ranging territories throughout the valley and into the surrounding hillsides. Walking and hiking are perfect ways to explore the environment and experience nature's beauty and strength firsthand. For detailed maps and specific information on the following more remote trails, visit our Destination Osoyoos visitor centre at the junction of Highways 3 & 97.
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Strawberry Creek Trail
Park on 62nd Avenue, follow the Canal Trail to Hwy 3, take the left fork that parallels Hwy 3 to the industrial park, then walk on the Strawberry Creek road to the narrow trail that turns south. The trail skirts an old abandoned mine (do not trespass or enter any of the shafts as they are extremely dangerous). Options return to 62nd Avenue, or a longer route to the neighborhoods by the Osoyoos Golf Course.
International Bicycling and Hiking Trail
Located at the north end of Osoyoos Lake and running parallel to the Okanagan River Channel, this 18.4km trail is perfect for biking between the many wineries in the area. The parking lot is accessed on Road 22 off Hwy 97, eight kilometres north of Osoyoos.
Osoyoos Lake Oxbows
The oxbows at the north end of Osoyoos Lake are a perfect area for birdwatching. This area has been the focus of a recent restoration process to Access is the same as the International Bicycling and Hiking Trail, but you just walk south on the trail instead of north. Located next to, and as part of, the Haynes' Lease Ecological Reserve, you will be entering some of the best known haunts for migratory and resident feathered friends. Don't forget your binoculars.
Mount Kobau Trail Network
The 5 kilometre Testalinden Trail has outstanding views of the Similkameen and Okanagan valleys. Access is via Hwy 3 approximately 11 km west of Osoyoos, then 17 km along the gravel/dirt access road (not suitable for low clearance vehicles) that takes you within 1 km of Mt. Kobau's summit, location of Mt. Kobau star party. Follow the trail to the forestry lookout for a great view of the valleys and the mountains around you. |
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