Suncruiser Okanagan

CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE IN THE TRI-LAKES

- By Steve Fennell

Few areas in Western Canada match the beauty of BC’s Okanagan Valley and its all-encompassi­ng communitie­s and lakes. From May to October, the Tri-Lake region bustles with activity, on and off the water. Whether you hit the water from the three main communitie­s of Kelowna, Vernon, or Penticton – and anywhere in between or beyond – excitement for 2018 awaits with many activities, events and new experience­s to enjoy.

Adventure here is at your doorstep. While there are many destinatio­ns and lakes to visit, Okanagan Lake – the largest in the region – is a great place to start. It stretches 134 km (84 mi) and is dotted with multiple marinas, yacht clubs, rental companies and several boating-friendly restaurant­s and resorts (see page 26). In other words, there’s always an opportunit­y to enhance your visit – day or night.

Yet, getting away from it all is the name of the game here. Navigate to the northeaste­rn shore of Okanagan Lake – near Vernon – and visit stunning Ellison Provincial Park, which encompasse­s 220 ha (543 ac) of forested bench lands set above rocky shorelines and sheltered coves. Or, head south from Kelowna

near Peachland and spend some “quiet time” in Commando Bay and Okanagan Mountain Park. More seclusion can be found at Reluctant Dragon Cove, which is within an earshot of Rattlesnak­e Island.

Further south is Penticton where you can visit popular Skaha Lake Park with its sandy beach and warm waters, which provide another great place to swim, enjoy watersport­s, or simply bask in the sun while drifting on a paddleboar­d. If you’re serious about a wetting a line, the Okanagan (as a whole) is known for its active whitefish, burbot, rainbow trout and large Kokanee salmon.

What’s more, you can also take a break from the water and enjoy the many popular events. With so many vibrant communitie­s, there are always a multitude of activities and adventures to check out. From music and public sporting events, to wine and beer festivals, the region’s culture is just as enjoyable as all the activity that’s found on the water. Safe Boating!

 ??  ??
 ??  ?? Setting the sails on Okanagan Lake.
Setting the sails on Okanagan Lake.
 ??  ?? Enjoying the water in Vernon.
Enjoying the water in Vernon.
 ??  ?? Wide open cruising can be enjoyed all season.
Wide open cruising can be enjoyed all season.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Canada