The Similkameen Valley is brimming with wide-open spaces for you to explore.
Whatever your pleasure – a bare-bones backcountry trek, a leisurely wander in the woods, or a family-friendly space for everyone to stretch their legs and soak up some sunshine – we’ve got the parks and trails to fulfil your expectations.
You’ll find splash parks and dog parks, playgrounds and swimming holes all through the valley. You don’t have to drive into the mountains to find a scenic path to wander. There are countless trails accessible from town, whether you’re in Princeton, Hedley, Keremeos, Cawston…pick up trail maps at the local Visitor Centres. On bike or on foot, you’ll find family-friendly, accessible trails to wander.
From west to east here are the highlights…
Be sure to check out Coalmont Tulameen Area trails featuring Tulameen Falls, Hudsons Bay Company Heritage Trail (East & West), Grant Pond Trail, Vuich Historic Trail, and Rice Historic Trail.
Manning Park
E.C. Manning Park
Perhaps one of the most iconic parks in the country, E.C. Manning Park has been an outdoor playground for thrillseekers, wildlife enthusiasts and families alike for generations. It’s considered the gateway to the Similkameen Valley eastbound from Hope.
This beautiful and remote park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle…and with limited cell coverage, you’re guaranteed some quiet time! Disconnect from the noise and connect with nature.
ALLISON LAKE PARK
Allison Lake Provincial Park is off the beaten path, 28 km north of Princeton. Open June to September, there are 22 vehicle accessible campsites here. Enjoy canoeing, cycling, fishing, swimming, and water skiing.
OTTER LAKE PARK
Otter Lake Provincial Park is just 33 km northwest of Princeton near Coalmont and Tulameen. Enjoy the winding, scenic drive through along the Tulameen River and discover a calm oasis. You’ll find beaches for sunbathing and some of the best fishing in BC on this idylic lake. Slip a kayak or canoe in the water and paddle around the shoreline enjoying the peace and quiet.
PRINCETON Hike through history
Princeton is a meeting place of two rivers…and the meeting place for two historic trails. Visitors to the valley can walk through history on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail where it merges with the Trans Canada Trail. Or, take a stroll on the Hudson’s Bay Heritage Trail and walk in the footsteps of traders and First Nations who forged the passage in 1849. Due to flooding in 2021 some parts of the trail have been affected. Contact the Princeton Visitor Centre for more information on trails in and around the Princeton Area.
China Ridge
China Ridge
China Ridge, a quick drive from downtown Princeton, is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With over 60 kilometres of trails weaving through the forest and grasslands, this four season park attracts visitors of all ages and skill levels year-round.
Spring, summer and fall are for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Winter brings folks on snowshoes and skis looking for a quiet place to breathe the cool, crisp air and enjoy the blanket of white on the pine trees.
Bromley Rock
Bromley Rock
This iconic little park just outside Princeton boasts a big feature: the enormous rock bluff perched over a swimming hole. Bromley Rock is a popular spot for swimmers to leap into the clear waters of the Similkameen River. Tubing enthusiasts also love using this as the starting point for their journey downstream to Stemwinder Provincial Park in Hedley.
Pitch a tent at the provincial campground and use it as a home base for exploring the hiking and biking trails that surround the park.
Stemwinder Provincial Park is located just west of Hedly and is 4 hectares in size, and provides public access to the Similkameen River. This park offers 28 vehicle-accessible campsites, including one pull-through site.
KEREMEOS – 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.
Your little ones will love the waterpad at Memorial Park in Keremeos and the swings and slides in Kobau Park in Cawston. No kids in tow? Then do a little wine tasting before getting back on the path and weaving your way home.
Have a four-legged family member along? There’s an off-leash dog park steps off the trail in Keremeos where you can let your furbaby run free for a while.
Cathedral Lakes
Cathedral Lakes
If you’re looking for a more rugged experience we recommend you visit Cathedral Lakes Park just outside of Keremeos. Get yourself settled at base camp – Cathedral Lakes Lodge – lace up your hiking boots and trek through the 60 kilometres of alpine trails. You’ll experience breathtaking views of the valley at elevation, meet mountain goats, and have a chance to dangle your toes in glacier-fed lakes.
CAMPGROUNDS/RV SITES Prepare to be surprised
It won’t take much effort to find your own space to play by the water or in the mountains. Once you’re settled in the Similkameen Valley, you’re only a short drive, bike ride or walk from your next outdoor adventure.
Check out the trails by campgrounds/RV sites throughout the Similkameen Valley.
