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Photo Credit: Robb Thompson
If you are new to riding, Ellison Provincial Park is the place to start. This short 3.2 km family friendly route climbs on green trails taking you right past the old truck and downhill on a blue level trail that allows newbies to show off their cornering skills.
In the summer, finish off your ride with a swim in Okanagan Lake. There's a nature trail that leads down to the campground and the beach.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park also has some mostly flat wide trails such as Comin Around the Mountain and Corral Trail. Enjoy epic views of Kalamalka Lake and the Coldstream Valley on these family friendly trails.
Remember your Trail Etiquette
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Ride Open Trails: Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required.
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Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you and the environment around you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don’t cut switchbacks. Don’t ride around standing water which results in widening the trail. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in. Consider improving the trail experience for those that follow by picking up and removing any litter.
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Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.
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Bicyclists traveling downhill yield to all users headed uphill.
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In general, strive to make each pass a safe, controlled and courteous one.
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Hikers, and animals have right of way.
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Plan Ahead - take water, tools, know your route.
Trails are colour coded like ski trails with green trails being the easiest, and double black being the hardest. While there are trail standards set up by IMBA that determine the trail colour, some areas are slightly different.
Trail Maps
There are some great maps available for you to find the trail that is just right for you and your family. The Trailforks website has great options to help you choose the trails that are right for your needs. Ribbons of Green has an interactive map with descriptors and photos to help choose the perfect trail for you and your family.
Learn to Ride by Taking a Bike Camp
New to biking? There are a number of outfits in Vernon offering bike skills training:
For more information on family friendly hiking and biking trails, email Tourism Vernon.