Backwoods MamaHiking

Five Great Family Hikes in West Kelowna

Five Great Family Hikes in West Kelowna

Here's a round-up of five family friendly trails to explore in West Kelowna, BC. Many of these trails were recently added to the Okanagan Hike and Bike Trail Map. Did you notice them pop up? Keep watching the map for new trails in the months to come. Bear Creek...

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The Okanagan Trail Map is LIVE!

The Okanagan Trail Map is LIVE!

I am excited to announce that the Okanagan Trail Map is LIVE! This interactive map highlights trails throughout the Central and South Okanagan Valley that are family friendly. Our family of five has explored all the trails listed on the map, and have rated them for...

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Hiking to Crawford/Canyon Falls in the Winter

Hiking to Crawford/Canyon Falls in the Winter

Canyon Falls Park is a 9.85 hectare park located in South Kelowna. It's a popular spot for adventure seekers and photographers because of its close proximity and beautiful waterfalls. There are several ways to see the waterfalls, the quickest trail down into the...

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KLO Creek Trail

KLO Creek Trail

The KLO Creek Trail starts at the north end of KLO Creek Regional Park in East Kelowna. There is a small parking area at the hairpin turn on McCulloch Road, about 200 meters past Field Road. The single track trail that starts at the parking lot meanders along KLO...

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Mill Creek Regional Park

Mill Creek Regional Park

UPDATE! SPRING 2017: MILL CREEK REGIONAL PARK IS CLOSED. Due to extensive flooding damage to this park, it is closed. A recovery plan is being prepared but until repairs have been completed the trail will remain closed for the remainder of 2017 and well into 2018. ...

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Naramata Creek Park in the Winter

Naramata Creek Park in the Winter

Creek Park is one of our favourite places to hike in Naramata, BC. The trail is lovely year round, and worth visiting regularly to witness the changes that each season brings. We've explored this park in the spring, summer, fall and just recently in the winter. Even...

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9 Tips for Hiking Safely with Children

9 Tips for Hiking Safely with Children

Outdoor safety and survival skills are crucial for outdoor enthusiasts. But what about adventuring families? What safety and survival skills should parents and children know for exploring the great outdoors? The majority of our outdoor adventures are uneventful but we...

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Exploring Deep Cove and Quarry Rock Trail

Exploring Deep Cove and Quarry Rock Trail

Deep Cove wasn't on my list of places to visit but our neighbours encouraged us to go explore the area and I'm so glad they did. The quaint community of Deep Cove is nestled in a small bay on the eastern edge of North Vancouver. When we arrived in Deep Cove there were...

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Flowers and Snails

Flowers and Snails

We have had below average temperatures in the Okanagan for the first part of July. Usually at this time of year we spend our time on the beach and avoid hiking because it is sweltering hot. However, this cooler weather has been perfect for hiking adventures. We...

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Ellis Creek: Canyon View Trail

Ellis Creek: Canyon View Trail

Ellis Creek Canyon is located on the east side of Penticton, BC. The creek is named after Thomas Ellis who was the first European immigrant to arrive in the Penticton area in 1865. There are several trails along the canyon ridge and another trail along the canyon...

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Hiking Gear for Kids

Hiking Gear for Kids

  DayPacksThe CamelBak Kid's Mini Mule is what my kids use most often for day hikes. It carries 1.5L of water and has enough room for a couple snacks. The limited room prevents kids from packing unnecessary items which can be challenge with younger children. When...

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Hiking Munson Mountain

Hiking Munson Mountain

Munson Mountain is an extinct volcano located on the north-east end of Penticton, BC. It is well know for its giant PENTICTON sign, clearly visible from across Okanagan lake, and for the great panoramic views it offers of the South Okanagan valley. The access road to...

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Hiking at Mountain Springs Nature Retreat

Hiking at Mountain Springs Nature Retreat

Mountain Springs Nature Retreat is a bed and breakfast and nature centre located in the Marron Valley, just west of Kaleden and Skaha Lake. From Highway 97, turn onto Highway 3A going towards Keremeos and Vancouver. Drive 6.1 km along Highway 3A looking carefully for...

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My Top 10 Kid Friendly Hikes in the South Okanagan

My Top 10 Kid Friendly Hikes in the South Okanagan

1. Naramata Creek Park (Naramata) moderate This 2.4 km hike, round trip, takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete with children. It's an easy hike with interesting geological features and a gorgeous waterfall at the end. The hike is not stroller friendly and...

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