Expect the hot weather to continue in the Okanagan this week.
(JOHN MCDONALD / iNFOnews.ca)
June 04, 2019 - 6:30 PM
KELOWNA - Summer is a busy time in the Okanagan — Kelowna is known for its amazing beaches, and people come here from all around to enjoy them.
The problem is that some beaches are just a little… too well known. So well-known, that you can never find a spot to park, never mind put down your beach towel.
If this has ever happened to you, take a look at these four lesser-known Kelowna beach spots that are sure to float your boat.
Bertram Creek Park is a popular location in the summer, not only for beach goers, but for picnics, weddings and local photoshoots. It can get a little hectic, especially in July and August.
If you’re looking for a quieter, more private beach, turn right on Lakeshore Drive just before the Bertram Creek Park Entrance. When you’re coming up to the parking lot, you will see a large field on your right — that’s how you know you’re in the right place.
The field is an off-leash dog park with an amazing view of Okanagan Lake. There are trails leading down to the beach at each end of the field, and you can bring your dog! Picnic tables are scattered at several little swimming spots, with lots of trees for that much needed shade. Next time you and your pooch want a quiet beach day, this is exactly what you’re looking for.
Mill Creek Regional Park
Located near the Kelowna Airport, Mill Creek is newly updated and ready for you and your dog to walk the creek-side trails through the lush forest that makes us reminisce about the rainy West coast. The Waterfall is about five minutes into the moderate walk and has a very deep swimming hole. In fact, this is a popular spot for cliff jumping (for those who are confident in their aim, the swimming hole is only about five meters wide.) This isn’t a long walk, so it’s great for those whose primary aim is getting straight in the water. Outhouses available.
Fintry Provincial Park
There are several lesser-known spots to swim at Fintry. To find them, you need to know where to look, and be good on your feet.
The first place to go is at the foot of the hill near the old cabin, in the river at the bottom of the stairs (no climbing for this one). Instead of going up the stairs, walk straight left until you hit the river, and walk up against the current until you reach the swimming holes, just below the first waterfall. It’s a great view from below, deep enough to swim, with plenty of big rocks to climb and set a picnic on.
Use caution here, this one is definitely off the map. The other secret paradise is much harder to reach, as it is located past the end of the official trail where the stairs end. If you go beyond the last platform, there were wooden planks set up along the edge of the cliff face that lead to two more swimming holes and another couple waterfalls. The place is gorgeous, and few dare to venture over the arguably sketchy wooden bridge (and we don’t blame them. This is not selfie territory.) But for experienced hikers and climbers with proper gear, this is definitely a great spot to spend the summer. The hike up to the falls is moderately difficult, as there are around 400 steps, but fairly easy if you take it slow. Make sure to bring lots of water if you are bringing your dog, as the steep incline and be tough on any short-legged doggos out there.
Paul's Tomb
The beach at the end of Paul’s tomb is pretty well-known, but not many people venture down the steep DIY trails off the edge of the trail. There are small clusters of rocks and small beaches around the corner from the Pauls tomb cliffs that are very private and great for swimming.
Plus, when you’re driving to the Paul’s Tomb parking lot, there are several small beaches all along Poplar Point Drive. Looking for a challenging hike before your swim? Start at the bottom of Knox Mountain and hike the Apex trail, through the Crown lookout and up to the summit, then loop around the backside of the mountain, go down the Pavilion and Gordon trails to reach the beach at the end of Paul’s Tomb.
So, what are you wading for? Pack your trunks and get your splash-tastic summer started right!
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