Open Air, Open Access: Discover Accessible Vernon
Are you looking for a holiday destination that's truly accessible? Vernon is well known as BC's destination for outdoor recreation (we're the Trails Capital of BC!) but did you know that many of our activities are designed to welcome everyone? Whether you're navigating the world with a mobility device, managing sensory sensitivities, travelling with young children, or simply prefer a more relaxed pace, Vernon has something for you. Come and experience luxurious hotel stays, sun-soaked beaches, adventurous trails, and welcoming patios — without barriers or snags.
Here's your guide to the best accessible fun in and around Vernon.
Where to stay: Accessible Accommodations
- Sparkling Hill Resort: Sparkling Hill is an adult-only wellness resort. Specially designed to accommodate guests who have specific needs, their accessible accommodation rooms feature beautiful views, crystal touches, daily complimentary à la carte breakfast, and room service from their in-resort restaurants PeakFine and Barrique & Java.
- Quality Inn & Suites: Vernon’s first solar powered hotel is accessible! They offer 2 accessible parking spots and an accessible room with a large washroom and additional grab bars and bench.
- Prestige Hotel Vernon: There are a number of accessible room types on offer, and it’s easy to reserve one online. They’re about a five minute drive from Swan Lake Nature Reserve, so this is the place to stay if you’re looking to take in some nature while enjoying bird-watching.
- Holiday Inn Express: A six minute ride from the downtown core, the Holiday Inn Express in Vernon offers a range of accessibility features in public spaces as well as on-demand, and in accessible rooms (click on the link for the full list of offerings!)
What to do
Inclusive paddle boarding: For an unforgettable day on the water, Vernon Adaptive offers paddling on Okanagan Lake with adaptive boards and volunteers. Join their inclusive paddling sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays. Friends, family and support people are welcome to join you on the water as well, just let them know in advance. They are also available for special group bookings and can travel to your desired location for a fee.
Beach access: Enjoy the best of both lakes - Kin Beach and Kal Beach both have mobi-mats in the summer months. Located on Kalamalka Lake, Kal Beach offers full wheelchair access to the beach. On Okanagan Lake, Kin Beach offers full access to the water along with a huge grassy area, making it the perfect destination for an afternoon with the kids. Nearby, Paddlewheel Park also offers lake access, accessible washrooms and a playground for littles.
Pro-Tip
For more accessible playground fun, head to Jumpstart Playground just 2 km from Paddlewheel Park by multi-use path at Marshall Fields.
At approximately 7,500 square feet, the state-of-the-art facility is thoughtfully designed to accommodate sensory, cognitive, and physical disabilities. Jumpstart playground is an imaginative and accessible space where kids of all abilities can experience the magic of play.
Accessible trail opportunities: Vernon is the Trails Capital of BC, and we’ve got plenty of accessible ones to choose from. Our top picks:
- Okanagan Rail Trail: offers both smooth packed gravel and paved pathways along its length. Note that this trail is not continuous - the Coldstream and Lake Country sections are surfaced with compact crushed aggregate, and the developed section in Kelowna is paved. This trail is an amazing way to visit Kalamaka Lake, and enjoy a day in nature. The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association has a great resource to see which trailhead has the accessibility features you need, and which mobility devices will pair best with the trail.
- Polson Park: has a nice paved pathway throughout and a short boardwalk through a wetland. If you’re travelling with kids, the playground can be accessed by wheelchair from the parking lot. Be sure to drop by on a Friday evening, when the Polson Artisan Market gets into full swing in the park. From 4 till 8 pm, you can enjoy amazing local artisan goods and tasty food.
- BX Ranch Dog Park: is a 1.27 km gravel trail looping around a dog park. If you’re bringing your pup, they’ll enjoy the wide grassy field and shady cedar forest at the back of the park to play. A little creek runs through this area, so be sure to check water levels before your pup goes for a swim. This is the perfect spot if you want to take your dog for a run or if you’d just like a quick visit in nature.
Food, drink and local experiences: Many cafés and restaurants in Vernon are accessible (check out our Hand-Picked Journeys for a DIY foodie tour!) but here are some standout experiences you won’t want to miss.
- RANGE Restaurant, bar + patio at Predator Ridge has an elevator up to their restaurant, and rewards you with an expansive patio and breathtaking views. Enjoy local Okanagan craft beers and ciders, and fresh seasonal menu options.
- Davison Orchards - Most outdoor areas including the market, Farmhouse Café, and Old Brick Press, are wheelchair friendly. Some of the Orchard Tour paths may be uneven, and staff can always assist if needed. Enjoy farm to table produce and bring your kids - their animal barn is sure to be a hit.
- Planet Bee Honeymoon Meadery is wheelchair accessible and open all year round. Every visit to Planet Bee includes a chance to witness honey bees up close, enjoy bee-friendly gardens, and taste honey & mead - all free of charge.
From the beaches at Okanagan Lake to the stretches of the Okanagan Rail Trail, there’s something in Vernon to appeal to every traveller. To get your next trip here started, check out our free visitor guide or sign up for our newsletter!
