Biking the Similkameen
The outdoors is best experienced on our trails. There is plenty with varying difficulty, there’s no excuse not to take advantage and explore our region. Go solo, grab a partner, bring the family, or even a furry companion!
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THE SIMILKAMEEN TRAIL
Check out the riverside Similkameen Trail that runs from the historic Red Bridge in Keremeos and leads you to Cawston. Walk or pedal your way along the river, and take time to visit one of the many parks and playgrounds along the route.
Want someone to guide you through the wineries and cideries on your ride? Book a tour and let the locals show you the very best the valley has to offer.
CHINA RIDGE
One of the most manageable cycling areas in the Similkameen is China Ridge. All levels of riders will find this area rewarding in the perfect natural setting. Just outside of Princeton, China Ridge is the perfect family cycling outing.
Kettle Valley Loop
Part of the famed Kettle Valley Rail Trail, the Kettle Valley Loop will take cyclists on a 40 km (25 mi) round trip excursion set in the lush Similkameen countryside. Begin your journey from downtown Princeton. Cyclists can expect pure bliss on this ride. Enjoy the biodiversity on the China Ridge Rail Trail and then get prepared to be ‘wow’-ed by the ivory shore of White Sands Beach along the Tulameen River.
There is more to get to along the trail but we suggest a stop here to put your toes in the sand and take an invigorating dip in the river. When you’re ready to continue on, a tranquil ride along the Tulameen River awaits you. Propel yourself back towards Princeton, through two man-made tunnels and over three bridges where the Kettle Valley Railway once connected our Valley to the rest of the country.
Note: due to flooding in 2021 some parts of the trail are no longer accessible. Check in with the Princeton Visitor Centre for the latest trail updates.
Overnight Rides
For an overnight trip, (52 km/32 mi return) take the same route and continue on past Coalmont to Tulameen. Tulameen was known as Otter Flats during the gold rush. North of Tulameen is Otter Lake Provincial Park with a lakeside campground.
Princeton east to Osprey Lake
At 4 km (2 mi) east of Princeton, you will pass by Princeton Castle Resort and the historic stone ruins of the Portland Cement Plant finished in 1908. The first 20 minutes of this trip is all uphill. Be sure to plan ahead and bring plenty of water. The Jura Loops part of the trail offers scenic views of the Hayes Creek Valley below. From there it’s another 25 km to the Chain Lake Campground. Stop here or ride the trail a few more minutes to Osprey Lake where you’ll bed down for the night in a rustic campground.
Get more great trail ride information at the Princeton Visitor Centre in the heart of downtown Princeton.
