The best gravel rides around Okanagan-Similkameen D

There are over a dozen gravel bike routes in the Okanagan-Similkameen D region documented on komoot, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars.

The region offers incredibly diverse terrain, from the historic, relatively flat sections of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail to challenging mountainous Forest Service Roads (FSRs) with significant elevation changes, switchbacks, and descents. You'll ride through semi-desert landscapes, lush orchards, vineyards, and dense forests, often with stunning views of Okanagan Lake and smaller highland lakes.

While many routes feature challenging climbs, there are moderate options available. For example, the View of Okanagan Lake – Little Tunnel loop from E Duncan at Church (EB) is a moderate 23.6-mile (38.1 km) route that offers beautiful views without extreme difficulty. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail also has sections suitable for less experienced riders.

For more advanced riders seeking significant climbs and longer distances, routes like the View of Okanagan Lake – Little Tunnel loop from Penticton, a 40.9-mile (65.7 km) difficult trail with nearly 1,000 meters of elevation gain, provide a good test. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail – Campsite With Valley View loop from Canyon View Terminus is another difficult option, covering 55.2 miles (88.9 km) with over 1,000 meters of climbing.

Many routes offer spectacular views of Okanagan Lake. You can also explore the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail with its iconic trestles and tunnels, such as the Adra Tunnel. Other highlights include the Giants Head Summit and scenic sections through the vineyards in the Okanagan.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Okanagan-Similkameen D are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Okanagan Lake – View of Okanagan Lake loop from Stevens at Stevens (SB), which is a difficult 34.2-mile (55.1 km) ride, and the moderate Kenyon Park and Beach – Pathway Along Okanagan Lake loop from E Duncan at Ridgedale (WB).

The Okanagan-Similkameen D region is generally best for gravel biking from spring through fall. Spring offers lush landscapes, while summer provides warm, sunny conditions ideal for combining rides with lake activities. Fall brings vibrant colors to the vineyards and forests, with cooler, pleasant temperatures. Winter riding can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially on higher elevation FSRs.

Absolutely. The region is defined by its lakes. Many routes offer views of Okanagan Lake, and some pass directly along its shores, such as the Kenyon Park and Beach – Pathway Along Okanagan Lake loop from E Duncan at Ridgedale (WB). You can also find smaller, pristine highland lakes accessible via gravel routes and FSRs, providing opportunities for a refreshing dip.

The extensive Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) is a prime candidate for long-distance and bikepacking adventures. While individual komoot routes might focus on sections, the KVR itself stretches for hundreds of kilometers, allowing for multi-day trips with varying terrain and opportunities to connect with other FSRs and explore remote areas and highland lakes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the region's diverse landscapes, from stunning lake views and picturesque vineyards to challenging mountainous terrain. The historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail with its unique trestles and tunnels is also a frequently highlighted favorite.

Yes, the Okanagan Valley is renowned for its vineyards and orchards. Many gravel routes, particularly in areas around Penticton, Summerland, and Oliver, traverse or offer views of these picturesque agricultural landscapes. The highlight Through the vineyards in the Okanagan specifically points to such scenic sections.