Vernon Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit in Vernon, British Columbia with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover natural attractions, local culture, exciting activities, and more.


Introduction to Vernon

Located in the Thompson-Okanagan region of British Columbia, Vernon is a beautiful and vibrant community with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This picturesque town is surrounded by sparkling lakes, verdant mountains, and lush vineyards, offering a wealth of outdoor activities, stunning vistas, and relaxed lifestyles. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Vernon has something to offer you. In this travel guide, we’ll show you the most exciting places to visit, things to do, and local experiences to indulge in Vernon. Let’s start!

List of Places to Visit in Vernon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

To immerse yourself in the rich local history and culture, Vernon offers several must-see attractions:

  • Greater Vernon Museum & Archives: This fascinating museum showcases the natural and human history of the Vernon area, including exhibits on indigenous art, colonial life, mining, and more. It also hosts special events and educational programs for all ages.

  • O’Keefe Ranch: This well-preserved ranch from the 19th century offers a glimpse into the pioneering life of early settlers in the region. You can explore the heritage buildings, take a horse-drawn wagon tour, or participate in hands-on activities such as butter churning, blacksmithing, and cowboy roping.

  • Allan Brooks Nature Centre: This nature center is dedicated to educating visitors about the local wildlife and ecology, with interactive exhibits, guided tours, and bird-watching opportunities. It also offers a stunning view of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Vernon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Vernon has plenty of natural wonders to discover, including:

  • Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park: This park is home to the famous “Lake of Many Colors,” a glittering jewel that changes hues from turquoise to emerald depending on the sunlight and the season. You can hike, bike, swim, or paddle on its pristine waters or explore its sandy beaches and rocky cliffs.

  • Silver Star Mountain Resort: This world-class ski resort offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, a vibrant village, and unparalleled slopeside activities. You can ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or fat bike in winter, or hike, bike, or play mini-golf in summer.

  • BX Falls: This hidden gem is a beautiful waterfall nestled in a kloof and surrounded by lush forest. It’s an easy hike to reach from the parking lot, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a photo op.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vernon

If you love to explore the great outdoors, Vernon has some of the best hiking and biking trails in British Columbia, such as:

  • Pincushion Mountain: This moderate hike offers stunning views of the Okanagan Valley, the Rocky Mountains, and the surrounding vineyards. It’s a 3.4 km loop with an elevation gain of 320 meters, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

  • Couples Mile/Turtle Mountain: This easy hike is a short but sweet stroll through a magical forest full of aspen and birch trees. It’s a 1.5 km loop with no significant elevation gain, making it perfect for families with young children or seniors.

  • Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park (Jade Bay Trail): This challenging hike takes you along the eastern side of the park, offering stunning views of the lake, the mountains, and the unique vegetation of the area. It’s a 11.5 km round-trip with an elevation gain of 400 meters, so be prepared for a good workout.

Best Things to Do in Vernon: Activities and Tours

Beyond hiking and biking, Vernon offers a wide range of activities and tours to satisfy any taste and budget, such as:

  • Okanagan Wine Tours: Discover the award-winning wineries of the Okanagan Valley with a guided tour that takes you through the vineyards, the cellars, and the tasting rooms. You can learn about the wine-making process, sample some of the best wines in the region, and enjoy a gourmet lunch or dinner.

  • Horseback Riding: Explore the backcountry of Vernon on horseback, with guided tours that take you through forests, meadows, and hills. You can choose from several options, such as sunset rides, cowboy cookouts, and multi-day expeditions.

  • Vernon Farmers Market: This lively market is a must-visit for foodies, offering a bounty of fresh produce, artisanal cheese, homemade jams, and baked goods. You can also find handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing from local artists and designers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vernon

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Vernon, here’s a sample itinerary that covers the best attractions and activities:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at the hotel. Relax and enjoy a sumptuous dinner at one of Vernon’s fine restaurants.

Day 2: Visit the Greater Vernon Museum & Archives in the morning, followed by a picnic at BX Falls in the afternoon.

Day 3: Go skiing or snowboarding at Silver Star Mountain Resort, or rent a fat bike and explore the winter wonderland.

Day 4: Take a guided wine tour of the Okanagan Valley, with stops at some of the best wineries in the region.

Day 5: Hike to the top of Pincushion Mountain and enjoy the panoramic views of Vernon and the surrounding area.

Day 6: Explore Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park by kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, and enjoy a picnic lunch on one of its sandy beaches.

Day 7: Departure day. Have breakfast at a local cafe before saying goodbye to Vernon and heading to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Vernon

Vernon has a vibrant food and drink scene, showcasing the best of local ingredients, flavors, and traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Okanagan Fruit: Taste the freshest and juiciest fruits of the valley, such as peaches, cherries, apples, and apricots, either fresh or in a pie, a jam, or a smoothie.

  • Salmon: Savor the succulent sockeye or chinook salmon from the nearby lakes or rivers, grilled, smoked, or baked to perfection.

  • Burger: Bite into a classic beef, bison, or veggie burger, topped with your favorite toppings and served with crispy fries or sweet potato wedges.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Sip on the award-winning wines of the Okanagan Valley, such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Icewine, paired with local cheeses, bread, and fruits.

  • Beer: Quench your thirst with a cold and hoppy craft beer from one of Vernon’s microbreweries, such as Marten Brewing Co., Okanagan Spring Brewery, or Naked Hops Brewing.

Where to Stay in Vernon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vernon offers a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets and styles, such as:

  • Vernon Lodge & Conference Centre: This full-service hotel is located in the heart of downtown Vernon, offering comfy rooms, a heated pool, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant.

  • Cowboy’s Guest Ranch: This charming guesthouse is a perfect blend of rustic and modern, with cozy rooms, a hot tub, a lounge, and a horse stable.

  • Hostelling International Vernon: This hostel is ideal for budget travelers, offering dorms and private rooms, a communal kitchen, a games room, and a garden.

What to Buy in Vernon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

To bring a piece of Vernon with you, here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to shop for:

  • Artworks: Discover the creative talents of Vernon’s local artists and artisans, such as paintings, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, and textiles.

  • Fresh Produce: Stock up on the freshest and ripest fruits and vegetables from the farmers’ markets, such as apples, peaches, tomatoes, corn, and strawberries.

  • Craft Beer and Wine: Take home a bottle or two of the Okanagan’s finest craft beer or wine, either from the brewery or winery itself or from a local liquor store.

Local Culture and Customs of Vernon

To respect the local culture and customs of Vernon, here are some tips and guidelines:

  • Respect the Land and the Wildlife: Vernon is home to many protected areas and endangered species, so always follow Leave No Trace principles and never disturb or harm the flora and fauna.

  • Be Courteous to the Locals: Vernon is a friendly and welcoming community, so always greet people with a smile and ask for permission before taking their photo or entering their property.

  • Be Prepared for All Seasons: Vernon has hot summers and cold winters, so always check the weather forecast and bring appropriate clothing and gear.

Best Time to Visit Vernon

The best time to visit Vernon depends on your interests and preferences:

  • Summer (June-September): This is the peak tourist season, with warm and sunny weather, plenty of outdoor activities, and vibrant festivals such as the Okanagan Wine Festival and the Vernon Folk Roots Festival.

  • Winter (December-March): This is the ski season, with excellent snow conditions and festive events such as the Silver Star Mountain Resort Christmas Market and the Winter Carnival.

  • Spring/Fall (April-May; October-November): These are the off-seasons, with fewer crowds, lower prices, and milder weather. You can enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, or wine tasting without the summer or winter rush.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vernon

To make the most of your trip and avoid any unpleasant surprises, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water.

  • Do wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

  • Do pack insect repellent and a first-aid kit for emergencies.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave your trash behind.

  • Don’t feed the wildlife or approach them too closely.

  • Don’t trespass or disregard private property signs.

Safety and Health

To ensure a safe and healthy trip to Vernon, here are some tips on safety and health:

Safety in Vernon

  • Always wear a life jacket when boating or kayaking on the lakes.

  • Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before hiking.

  • Always lock your car and keep your valuables out of sight.

Health in Vernon

  • Always wash your hands before eating or preparing food.

  • Always drink safe and clean water from taps, fountains, or bottled sources.

  • Always use insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent tick bites.

Getting to Vernon: Transportation Options and Logistics

To get to Vernon, you have several transportation options and logistics to consider:

  • Airports Near Vernon: The nearest airports to Vernon are Kelowna International Airport (YLW), which is about 45 km away, and Kamloops Airport (YKA), which is about 100 km away. You can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use a taxi or ride-sharing service to get to Vernon from the airport.

  • Bus Stations Near Vernon: Greyhound and Ebus have bus services that connect Vernon to other major cities in British Columbia and Alberta, such as Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton.

  • Other Options: You can also drive to Vernon from other destinations, such as Vancouver (about 450 km away), Seattle (about 550 km away), or Calgary (about 650 km away).

How to Get Around in Vernon

To get around Vernon, you have several options to choose from:

  • Car Rental: You can rent a car from several major car rental agencies, such as Enterprise and Budget, located in downtown Vernon or at the airports.

  • Bike Rental: You can rent a bike from various bike rental shops, such as Olympia Cycle and Ski and Skookum Cycle & Ski, located in downtown Vernon or at the Silver Star Mountain Resort.

  • Public Transport: Vernon Regional Transit System operates several bus routes that serve the main attractions and neighborhoods of Vernon.

Where to Go Next from Vernon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to explore beyond Vernon, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Kelowna: This vibrant city is only a short drive from Vernon and offers plenty of attractions, such as museums, galleries, beaches, vineyards, and parks.

  • Kamloops: This picturesque city is located in the heart of the Thompson River Valley and offers a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure, such as hiking, golfing, watersports, and wildlife watching.

  • Revelstoke: This scenic town is nestled in the Selkirk and Monashee Mountains and offers some of the best skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking opportunities in British Columbia.

Conclusion

Vernon is a hidden gem in British Columbia, offering a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, you’ll find plenty of things to do, places to visit, and memories to cherish in Vernon. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful town and explore all its wonders. Safe travels!

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