Spring in the Similkameen Valley bursts with life. Orchards blossom, rivers rush with snowmelt (always use caution near rivers), and wildlife emerges across open landscapes. Located a short scenic drive from Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, the Okanagan, and the Thompson region, the Similkameen Valley is an easy day trip or weekend getaway.
Top 10 SPRING EXPERIENCES
From scenic drives and outdoor adventures to local flavours and spring festivals, check out our Top 10 list for travel inspiration.
1. See the Blossoms in Full Bloom
Orchards from Keremeos to Cawston come alive in spring, painting the valley in shades of pink and white. Perfect for scenic drives, photography, and peaceful strolls among blooming fruit trees.
Where to Go
Keremeos & Cawston – Fruit Stand Capital of Canada and Organic Farming Capital of Canada
2. Spot Wildlife on Open Hillsides
Before the trees fully leaf out, it’s easier to see black bears, mountain goats, and California Big Horn Sheep. Keep binoculars handy for migratory birds stopping to refuel along rivers and grasslands.
Where to Go
Princeton’s Swan Lake Nature Reserve offers visitors 15 km of self-guided nature trails and two bird blinds.
Check out our Wildlife Viewing blog
3. Take a Scenic Spring Drive
From Manning Park Resort and Princeton to historic towns like Hedley, Coalmont, Tulameen, and onward to orchard & vineyards in Keremeos and Cawston, find us from any direction. Be sure to stop at pullouts to capture river views, blossoms, and wildlife. Our curvy roads are great for motorcycle touring.
Find your Road Trip Route to the Similkameen Valley from any direction.
4. Capture Spring Through Your Lens
Spring’s light and colour make it a photographer’s dream. From sunrise over orchards to sunsets on rolling hills and riversides, every angle is picture-perfect.
Check out our photo gallery for inspiration, then create your own memories.
Check out our Top 5 Lookouts for scenic views worth exploring.
5. Hike or Bike at China Ridge & Manning Park
From alpine vistas to wide-open meadows, spring hiking and biking in Manning Park and China Ridge are spectacular. Trails range from gentle valley routes to challenging mountain paths, offering panoramic views and blooming landscapes.
Explore Manning Park Resort & Provincial Park with Spring activities and events.
Discover the trails at China Ridge, near Princeton, many of which are pet-friendly, and family fun can be had at the disc golf course too!
6. Join Spring Events & Festivals
Spring is the start of the festival and events season in the valley! Event highlights bring the valley’s culture, flavours, and people together for unforgettable spring experiences.
Check out all our events, and here are a few Spring Highlights:
- Manning Park Resort: Patrol Like a Girl March 21, and Snowshoes and S’mores runs until March 28.
- Rodeo Season: Spring is rodeo season in the Similkameen. Kicking things off in April is the Chopaka Rodeo, (dates to follow), then the Elk’s Rodeo in May (dates to follow) in Keremeos and June 13 & 14th Princeton’s Stan Thompson Memorial Rodeo. From heart-pounding bronc riding to family-friendly festivities, these authentic, small-town rodeos are more than just competitions—they celebrate tradition, community, and the Western spirit.
- Meadowlark Festival May 14-18, 2026. Since 1998, the annual Meadowlark Nature Festival has presented interactive, multi-disciplinary events that explore and celebrate the spectacular natural environment of the Okanagan Similkameen.
7. Cycle Through Orchards, Vineyards and Countryside
Spring’s mild weather and blooming landscapes make cycling a relaxing, scenic adventure. Pedal along quiet country roads and between orchards and vineyards, bring your own bikes or, by appointment, rent from Similkameen Sip & Cycle.
8. Taste the Season’s Freshest Flavours, Wine & Spirits
Spring means the start of farm-fresh produce and the reopening of tasting rooms. Stop at farm stands in Keremeos and Cawston, enjoy farm-to-table meals at Klippers Organic Acres (Farm, Restaurant, Suites, Cidery), Tree-To Me Organics (Farm Market, Bistro & Suites), and the Crowsnest Vineyards (Guesthouse, Restaurant, Winery, Bakery), and sip local wines, ciders, and fruit sodas from over 15 options, also check out our Foodie Options.
9. Explore Historic Towns & Local Culture
Princeton, the Bronze Sculpture Capital of Canada, offers a self-guided walking tour of over 20 sculptures. Keremeos, Cawston, and Hedley showcase heritage buildings, local art, museums and small-town charm.
The Similkameen River is the heart of our valley, and our communities are the spirit. You’ll find the people who live in our eclectic small towns are friendly and hospitable.
10. Take Time to Relax & Connect with Nature
Whether you’re hiking, cycling, driving, or attending an event, spring in the Similkameen Valley encourages you to slow down. Enjoy quiet moments among blossoms, rivers, and wide-open skies, soaking in the season’s energy
Spring in the Similkameen Valley combines natural beauty, outdoor adventure, local flavours, and seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re chasing blossoms, photographing wildlife, or tasting fresh local produce, the valley offers experiences that stay with you long after the season ends.
