Biking

Vernon has a variety of biking trails catering to all skill levels. The Okanagan Rail Trail offers a scenic, mostly flat route along Kalamalka Lake, perfect for casual rides. For mountain bikers, Ellison Provincial Park and Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park feature trails with diverse terrain and exciting views. Silver Star Mountain Resort is a favourite for downhill mountain biking with its lift-accessed trails and downhill courses.

Bike rentals in Vernon are available from shops like Skyride and Kalavida. Both offer mountain bikes, road bikes, and even e-bikes, catering to different riding styles and preferences. Silver Star Mountain Resort also has rentals for downhill mountain biking and fat biking in the winter.

Yes, Vernon has several family-friendly trails, including the Okanagan Rail Trail and the Polson Greenway. These trails are relatively flat, paved, or packed gravel, making them ideal for families with young kids. Becker Park also has a pump track that’s perfect for kids to practice biking skills.

Yes, Silver Star Mountain Resort requires a lift pass for access to its downhill mountain biking trails. Riders can purchase day passes, season passes, or discounted evening passes. The fees cover lift access and support the maintenance of the trails, making it an ideal spot for experienced downhill riders looking for well-maintained courses.

The type of bike depends on the trail you choose. For the Okanagan Rail Trail and Polson Greenway, a regular road bike, hybrid bike or e-bike is suitable. For more technical trails like those in Ellison and Kalamalka Lake Provincial Parks, a mountain bike is recommended. Downhill-specific mountain bikes are ideal for Silver Star’s lift-accessed trails.

Yes, Vernon hosts several organized group rides and events. The North Okanagan Cycling Society (NOCS) organizes weekly group rides for different skill levels during the summer. Silver Star Mountain Resort also hosts downhill racing events and mountain biking festivals that bring together riders from across the region.

Many accommodations in Vernon are bike-friendly, particularly those catering to outdoor enthusiasts. Some hotels offer secure bike storage, and Silver Star Mountain Resort has several lodging options with amenities for cyclists, including bike washes, storage, and even repair stations. It’s always a good idea to check with individual accommodations about bike storage options.

Yes, Vernon has embraced fat biking as a winter activity, especially at Silver Star Mountain Resort and in Ellison Provincial Park, where trails are groomed for fat biking during the winter months. The North Okanagan Cycling Society also helps groom some of the trails to make winter biking possible and enjoyable.

Trail maps and conditions for Vernon’s biking trails are available on apps like Trailforks and AllTrails, as well as on the North Okanagan Cycling Society website. Silver Star Mountain Resort and local bike shops also provide trail information, updates, and maps for biking routes, so you can stay informed about conditions and trail openings.