Cycling in Vernon is a journey through landscapes that shift with every turn. The North Okanagan’s mix of routes—spanning parks, scenic loops, and challenging climbs—welcomes cyclists of every level to explore with a community that thrives on two wheels. Grab your bike, embrace the open air, and discover why Vernon has become a must-visit destination for anyone ready to explore the world from the seat of a bicycle.
Scenic Road Trails
Vernon’s road biking trails offer a range of routes that take cyclists through the best views and open stretches the North Okanagan has to offer. Here are some of the most popular routes that promise rewarding views and a smooth ride.
Adventure Bay
Adventure Bay is a top choice for road cyclists looking to explore. This route is known for winding roads that hug the lake, giving riders unobstructed water views and a chance to enjoy the crisp lake air. The elevation changes, challenging options to climb and the hilly, fast sections provide a challenge for an enjoyable ride for adventure seekers. The Rise Climb section is Vernon's second most popular climb (after SilverStar). The fast section and holding speed on the flat section are key to making it up the steep sections. Adventure Bay also offers multiple opportunities to stop along the way, making it a good choice for riders looking to blend sightseeing with a thrilling day.
Echo Lake
Echo Lake is a favourite for its laid-back vibe, perfect for riders who enjoy the art of cruising. The area offers forested mountainsides, minimal traffic, and a mix of paved and hard-packed gravel sections. It’s a relatively easy ride, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy a casual day on the bike, with plenty of spots to pause and take in the sights. The combination of fresh lake air and easy accessibility makes Echo Lake a staple among local riders and tourists.
Full Vernon Loop
For those wanting a complete experience of Vernon’s terrain, the Full Vernon Loop provides a sweeping view of the area’s road biking potential. This loop combines sections of forested roads with open landscapes, offering a diverse ride with a bit of everything Vernon has to offer. The Full Vernon Loop is popular among seasoned cyclists for a comprehensive road biking experience that covers varied ground and brings the region’s natural scenery to life with each turn.
North Okanagan Loop
Known for its accessibility and great scenic value, the North Okanagan Loop is designed for cyclists who want a challenging, visually rewarding ride. The loop stretches through several beautiful landscapes, surrounding the Okanagan Lake for 142 km in total with a 1600m elevation. It is accessible from Vernon, Kelowna, Lake Country, Armstrong or Lumby combining natural backdrops with stretches of open road, making it an inviting option for a day trip. The North Okanagan Loop provides the perfect setting for those looking to get a fuller view of the North Okanagan countryside with major climbs. It is difficult but there are a few bail-out options and many points of interest along the way.
SilverStar Road Climb
Cyclists looking for a rewarding uphill challenge often turn to the SilverStar Road Climb. This trail leads up to SilverStar Mountain, giving riders a long stretch of steady elevation gain. Known for its demanding ascent, the SilverStar Road Climb is a top choice for cyclists looking to test their stamina and endurance. While the climb is a workout with some sections at an 11-13% gradient, the road is paved, and the views from the top are worth every pedal stroke. This route attracts both seasoned cyclists training for climbs and those looking for a satisfying challenge paired with scenic rewards.
Predator Ridge
Predator Ridge, known for its well-maintained paths and gently winding roads, offers a mix of challenging stretches and less challenging segments. While the elevation gain isn’t as intense as SilverStar, Predator Ridge provides a balance of varied terrain and great views, making it a favourite for intermediate to advanced cyclists. The trail’s reputation for smooth roads and a natural landscape backdrop has made it a staple for Vernon’s cycling community. Predator Ridge is also a good spot to test out endurance skills without committing to a full-scale climb.
Park Trails for Cyclists
Vernon’s biking parks have become increasingly popular, offering options for road and mountain bikers alike. From gravel paths to paved circuits, the city’s parks provide a unique biking experience suited to all skill levels and interests. Here are some of the best parks in Vernon for bikers looking to hit trails that combine natural beauty with cycling-friendly pathways.
Okanagan Rail Trail
The Okanagan Rail Trail is a long-distance favourite, stretching 50 kilometres between Vernon and Kelowna. This multi-use trail, situated along an old railway bed, offers a scenic ride that’s accessible to riders of all levels. With its relatively flat terrain, the Okanagan Rail Trail is excellent for a longer, leisurely ride and has a reputation for being one of the best family-friendly trails in the area. Riders can enjoy lakeside views, open landscapes, and plenty of places to stop for a snack or photo.
Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park provides a change of pace with paved trails that follow the creek from Peirce Mill to the Lincoln Memorial. Ideal for a more casual ride, Rock Creek Park has smooth paths perfect for both new riders and experienced cyclists looking to relax. The trail follows a gentle route that passes through scenic creek views and shaded areas, offering a comfortable environment even on warmer days. Rock Creek Park’s paved paths make it accessible year-round, making it a consistent choice for Vernon’s biking community.
Becker Park
Becker Park caters to a range of cyclists with its paved pump track and dirt jump zones. The park’s layout allows for both leisurely rides and adrenaline-filled sessions, making it an appealing destination for riders looking to build skills or just have fun on the bike. Becker Park has become a popular spot for riders of all ages, including families and younger bikers honing their skills. The diverse options provide an engaging experience for anyone looking to mix up their routine.
Ellison Provincial Park
Ellison Provincial Park offers over six kilometres of multi-use trails suited for bikers of all levels. These trails are shared with hikers and runners, creating an inviting outdoor community vibe. The trails wind through forested areas and offer a natural escape that’s still close to town, making Ellison a top choice for local riders who appreciate a short but immersive trail experience. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to balance their ride with nature and enjoy Vernon’s provincial park system.
Finding Your Perfect Route
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist looking for a challenging climb or a casual rider seeking an easy day on the bike, Vernon’s trails and parks provide a diverse range of options. Trail information and updates are available through Trailforks, where cyclists can check conditions, recent grooming, and user-generated reports to pick the best trail for the day’s ride. Cyclists can also rent bikes and gear from Skyride, Kalavida, Predator Ridge or SilverStar Mountain Resort, making Vernon’s biking trails accessible for visitors as well.
The biking routes in Vernon, from road trails to park paths, ensure that every ride offers a memorable experience, capturing the best of the North Okanagan landscape. Exploring Vernon by bike brings a new appreciation for the region’s landscape, from lakeside views to mountain climbs.
