Kelowna: Historical Trail to Penticton Self-Guided Tour

If you’re looking for a way to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of local history and some well-earned relaxation, this Kelowna to Penticton bike tour might be just what you need. Offered by Myra Canyon Bicycle Rental and Tours Inc, it guides you along 74 kilometers of paved, gently declining trail that follows the historic Kettle Valley Railway. The journey promises breathtaking views, historic insights, and a rewarding wine tasting at the end.

What makes this experience stand out are two particular features: First, the fully-equipped Giant Sedona comfort bikes make pedaling smooth and enjoyable, especially over such a long distance. Second, the panoramic vistas of the Okanagan Valley are genuinely stunning — especially from the many trestles and tunnels.

That said, a potential consideration is that this tour is not suited for very young children or those under 5’1″ (155 cm), because of the bike size requirements. It’s a full-day endeavor, so it’s best for active travelers who enjoy scenic cycling but don’t mind a bit of a challenge. If you appreciate historical sights, beautiful landscapes, and a leisurely pace with a tasty finish, this self-guided tour is likely to be a favorite.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery combined with local history makes this tour educational and visually stunning.
• The fully-equipped bikes and safety gear help make the ride comfortable and worry-free.
• The halfway stop at Chute Lake offers a perfect break for snacks or a picnic.
• 19 trestles and 3 tunnels create a unique experience, especially for railway enthusiasts.
• The wine tasting at D’Angelo Estate Winery offers a delightful end to the adventure.
• Flexible scheduling and self-guided format enable you to enjoy at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Details of the Experience

This self-guided bike tour starts with pickup in Kelowna, with the company handling your transportation to the starting point at Myra Station. From there, you are set free to explore the 74 km route along the historic Kettle Valley Railway trail at your own pace. The trail’s gentle decline makes it accessible for many, but keep in mind it’s not recommended for children under 5. The bikes are provided in various sizes, are serviced daily, and come with helmets, spare parts, tools, a first aid kit, and hydration, so you’re well equipped for the day.

The trail itself is a marvel. Over 19 trestles and through 3 tunnels, you’ll cross bridges that seem to float over the valley and pass through dark, cool tunnels that add an element of adventure. Along the way, informative panels provide context about the railway’s past and the region’s development, making it an educational stroll through history.

Most travelers find the scenic overlooks particularly memorable. We loved the way the trail offers panoramic views of the valley and distant mountains, especially from the trestles—those classic railway structures suspended high above the trees. The landscape is a patchwork of vineyards, lakes, and rolling hills, making every turn a postcard shot.

At Chute Lake, around the halfway mark, you can take a break, stretch your legs, or enjoy a packed lunch (not included) while soaking in the peaceful scenery. Continuing past the rock ovens and through the Adria Tunnel, the route offers a mix of natural beauty and engineering marvels. The tunnel, in particular, adds a sense of adventure—dark, cool, and surprisingly short.

The journey culminates at D’Angelo Estate Winery in Penticton, where you’ll enjoy a wine tasting. This final stop provides a relaxing way to savor local wines and reflect on your day’s journey. The tour includes two bottles of water and two snacks to keep you energized, plus transportation back to your accommodation.

How Good Is the Value?

At $188 per person, this experience might seem a bit steep at first glance, but when you consider what’s included—bike, helmet, safety gear, snacks, water, and transportation—it’s a fair deal. The main value lies in the access to an iconic railway trail, the convenience of a self-guided setup, and the memorable finale of wine tasting.

For active travelers or railway fans, the chance to ride such a historic route with minimal hassle can justify the price. Plus, the flexibility to set your own pace means you’re not rushed, and you can linger over your favorite views or take extra photos.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for those who enjoy biking, appreciate scenic landscapes, and are curious about local history. Because it’s self-guided, it suits travelers comfortable with independent navigation or those eager to explore at their own pace.

It’s particularly appealing to adults and older children due to the length and physical demand, especially since it’s not suitable for young kids under 5. If you’re a history buff or a railway enthusiast, the chance to cross trestles and tunnels while learning about the region’s transportation past adds extra interest.

The wine tasting finale makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a relaxed end to a day of outdoor activity, especially wine lovers eager to sample some local reds and whites.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a pickup in Kelowna between 8:00 am and 8:30 am, ensuring a smooth start. The ride from Myra Station is paved and gentle, designed for comfort rather than adrenaline. From the outset, you’ll notice the trail’s smooth surface, ideal for the comfort bikes provided.

As you pedal along, the highlights include the first trestle, where you’ll get your first taste of the impressive engineering that supports this trail. The panoramic views become more dramatic as you cross higher trestles, with the valley spreading below in all its glory. Several benches and viewing platforms invite you to pause and take it all in.

A key feature is the three tunnels, each dark and cool, offering a change of scenery and a fun challenge for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. The rock ovens, remnants of the mining days, provide a tangible link to the region’s past industries.

The halfway point at Chute Lake is perfect for a rest. Here, you can choose to enjoy a packed lunch (not provided), dip your toes in the lake, or simply relax and soak up the serenity.

Continuing past Adria Tunnel and the rock ovens, the trail gradually descends toward Penticton. The final stretch offers views of vineyards and orchards as you approach your destination.

Once at D’Angelo Estate Winery, you’ll indulge in a curated wine tasting, often cited as a delightful way to unwind after your pedaling adventure. The winery’s setting provides a lovely environment to reflect on the day’s journey.

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Authenticity and Practical Tips

This tour’s self-guided format offers genuine flexibility, allowing you to decide when to start, where to stop, and how long to linger at each view. The included transportation to and from your accommodation simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in Kelowna.

Reviewers mention the well-maintained bikes and thoughtful safety gear, which make the experience worry-free. Meanwhile, the informative panels along the route enrich your understanding of the railway’s history without overwhelming you.

A practical tip—bring layers, as tunnels can be cooler, and be prepared for a full day of activity. The duration is around 8 hours from pickup to return, so plan for a leisurely pace, plenty of water, and maybe a camera.

The Sum Up

This Kelowna to Penticton self-guided bike tour offers a rewarding blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and a wine tasting finale. It’s perfect for those who enjoy outdoor physical activity but also want a relaxed, scenic experience without the hassle of planning every detail. The included safety gear and transportation make it accessible and comfortable, while the stunning views and historic trestles promise memorable moments.

If you’re an active traveler seeking a unique way to see the Okanagan Valley, this tour delivers on both adventure and authenticity. It’s especially suited for adults or older children who can handle the length and physicality of the ride, and for anyone keen to combine cycling with a taste of regional history and wine.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, as the bike sizes and overall physical demand might not be appropriate for very young kids.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes about 8 hours, including transportation, riding, stops, and the wine tasting.

What is included in the price?
You get a fully-equipped bicycle, helmet, pannier with spare parts, tools, a first aid kit, two bottles of water, two snacks, and transportation to your accommodation.

Can I do this tour at my own pace?
Yes, since it’s self-guided, you can start when you like and decide how long to spend at each stop.

Are the bikes comfortable?
Yes, the Giant Sedona comfort bikes are serviced daily and come in various sizes for a comfortable ride.

What are the main sights along the trail?
Expect to cross over 19 trestles, go through 3 tunnels, and see remnants like rock ovens—all with panoramic views of the valley.

What should I bring?
Layers for changing weather, personal snacks, extra water if needed, and a camera for the views.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation.

How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable cycling 74 km on a paved trail. The trail’s gentle decline makes it accessible for many, but it’s still a full-day activity.

What is the ending experience?
The tour concludes with a wine tasting at D’Angelo Estate Winery, a relaxing way to celebrate your day.

This self-guided tour presents a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and history, wrapped up in a comfortable package with a delicious finish. Perfect for active travelers wanting a true taste of the Okanagan Valley’s natural and cultural riches.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby