Biking in Lake Country
Lake Country, BC is a beautiful region known for its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Biking is one of the most popular activities in Lake Country, with over 200 kilometers of dedicated bike paths and trails to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenging ride or a casual rider just looking to enjoy the scenery, Lake Country has something for everyone.
Here are a few of our favorite biking trails:
Wood Lake and Kalamalka Lake Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Length: 50 kilometers (31 miles)
- Highlights:
- Breathtaking views of Kalamalka and Wood Lake.
- A relatively flat, well-maintained trail suitable for all levels.
- Multiple access points, picnic areas, and rest stops along the way.
- Opportunities for bird-watching and wildlife spotting.
- Connections to other nearby trails and parks.
Oyama
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Length: 20.1 kilometers
- Highlights:
- Oyama is nestled between Wood Lake and Kalamalka Lake, offering picturesque lakeside biking routes.
- This well-maintained trail is suitable for riders of all levels and offers panoramic lake vistas.
- Combine your biking adventure with visits to local vineyards along designated biking routes.
- A popular destination for biking enthusiasts.
Coldstream Cycle
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Length: 97 kilometers
- Highlights:
- This picturesque multi-use trail follows the shores of Kalamalka and Wood Lake, providing stunning lake views and an easy, well-maintained route suitable for cyclists of all levels.
- Combine biking and wine tasting by cycling through scenic vineyards and visiting local wineries along designated biking routes.
- Keep an eye out for local biking events and community rides. These provide opportunities to connect with fellow cyclists, explore new routes, and participate in fun, bike-themed activities.
Explore other biking trails in Lake Country
Discover more hiking trails with the assistance of maps, helping you find the ideal route for your enjoyment.
Have a glance at the map:
Biking Tips
Here are some tips for planning your biking trip to Lake Country:
Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Pack Essentials: Bring essentials like water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and proper hiking footwear. Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather.
Trail Etiquette: Respect the environment and fellow hikers. Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and be mindful of wildlife.
Safety First: Let someone know your hiking plans and estimated return time. Carry a fully charged cell phone and a trail map.
Trail Closures: Be aware of any trail closures or restrictions, especially during wildfire season.
Bike Rentals and Services
If you’re looking for a place to rent a bike, there are a number of shops in Lake Country that offer rentals. You can also find bike repair shops and other cycling-related businesses in the area.
Following are the biking rentals services in Lake Country:
- Lake Country Cycle: They offer a complete selection of parts and accessories, as well as a variety of bikes for rent, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and electric bikes.
- Pedego Electric Bikes Oyama: This store specializes in electric bike rentals and sales. They also offer a variety of accessories and riding apparel.
- Oyama E-Bike & Board: This shop offers a variety of electric bikes for rent, as well as stand-up paddleboards.
Biking Events and Races
Lake Country, BC, is not just a destination for scenic biking but also hosts a variety of exciting biking events and races throughout the year. These events attract cyclists from all skill levels and provide opportunities to challenge yourself, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and explore the stunning landscapes of the Okanagan Valley.
Here are some notable biking events and races in Lake Country, BC:
1. Kalamalka Classic: This annual event offers a mix of road and mountain bike races. Highlights include the challenging King of the Lake mountain bike race, road cycling routes through the picturesque Kal Lake area, and a festive atmosphere for riders and spectators.
2. Rail Trail Full Moon Ride: Experience the Okanagan Rail Trail in a unique way by joining the Rail Trail Full Moon Ride. Cyclists come together to enjoy an evening ride under the light of the full moon, creating a magical biking experience along the lakefront.
3. Community Bike Rides: Lake Country often hosts community bike rides that are open to all ages and skill levels. These rides promote cycling as a healthy and enjoyable activity while fostering a sense of community.
4. Fundraising Rides: Several charity and fundraising rides take place in the region, combining the love of biking with a good cause. These events support various local and national charities, providing a meaningful way to give back to the community.
5. Wine and Bike Tours: Lake Country’s wine-themed bike tours combine the joy of biking with wine tasting. These self-guided tours take you through vineyards, where you can sample local wines and cuisine.