Explore Three Lakes in Three Days

Taking a boating trip to the BC interior? Plan accordingly to get the most out of the Tri-Lakes.

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Words by Steve Fennell

Planning for long weekends or even an extended vacation in the Okanagan takes some organizing to enjoy everything the region has to offer. What’s special about the Tri-Lakes area is the three main communities of Penticton, Kelowna and Vernon - and the surrounding bodies of water - are close to each other, providing the convenience to explore a variety of diverse destinations.

A good start is by visiting Skaha, Kalamalka, and Okanagan lakes and taking in the charm of their shoreside communities. Whether you plan to visit all three during your visit or just one, here’s a breakdown of how to best experience this scenic region of BC’s interior.

Day 1: Kelowna to Skaha Lake and Penticton

Arriving in Kelowna is a thrilling experience as you admire the rolling mountains, sparkling water and crisp fresh air. A great way to explore the area is to cruise or drive with a boat in tow to Penticton and Skaha Lake.

Penticton is only an hour from Kelowna (and about 90 minutes from Vernon) and driving along the west shore of Okanagan Lake on Hwy/BC-97 S to this summer retreat is almost as exciting as Penticton itself. You can also launch your boat in Kelowna and take the scenic route by water. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.

One community along the way is Peachland. It’s home to some of the most popular wineries in the area including Hainle Vineyards Estate, which is known as one of the first ice wine producers in North America, and Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards at Greata Ranch, which is about 15 minutes to the south. Come ready to sample some vintages as they are a producer of sparkling wines, rieslings, merlots and chardonnays, to name a few.

There are also several dining options in Peachland including Gausthas On The Lake Pub, where you can enjoy eclectic German cuisine, as well as The Blind Angler Grill, which has a casual atmosphere. The Blind Angler is also along the shores of Okanagan Lake and if you come by water, there are slips available for visiting boaters.

Hiking is another way to see more of the area and Hardy Falls, Pincushion Mountain Trail and Gladstone Trail all provide great views of the region.

The next southbound community before Penticton is Summerland. There are more wineries to further savour the fruits of the region and if you feel like exploring this part of Okanagan Lake, you’ll find a launch ramp along Lakeshore Dr., in Peak Orchard Beach Park and at Kickininee Provincial Park, just to the south.

When hunger strikes, there are a variety of restaurants along Hwy/BC-97 S or pull up to the dock at Shaugnessy’s Cove and enjoy a waterfront dining experience.

Once you arrive in Penticton, you’ll have a choice of cruising the south end of Okanagan Lake or the warmer waters of Skaha. Boat ramps are available in both locations.  Also, be sure to spend some time on the sand. Skaha Lake Park has been named one of the top beaches in Canada while 0 is another great choice to soak up the rays.

If you enjoy fishing or paddle boarding, plan a few hours (or more) to do both. The calm waters of Skaha are perfect to paddle effortlessly and the lake is also popular to fish for trout, kokanee, and smallmouth bass.

To round out the day, spend the night (or two) in the area. Accommodations range from popular chain hotels and beautiful resorts to full-service campgrounds - many with beaches/water access and boating amenities.

Day 2: Kelowna, the Waterfront and North Okanagan Lake

After the northbound return trip from Penticton to Kelowna along Hwy/BC-97 N and crossing the William B. Bennett Bridge (from West Kelowna), visit the city’s vibrant waterfront.  This largest city on Okanagan Lake and where you can find several services and a choice of marinas, including Downtown Marina Kelowna where you can launch your boat, park your tow vehicle and begin exploring the area.

While the waterways get busy during peak season, boat traffic may recede once you make your way north to more open water. A great place to anchor is near Traders Cove Regional Park, Coral Beach Park, or Fintry Provincial Park - the latter two have a boat launch and dock access.

Be sure to bring your SUP and fishing gear as these are ideal places to enjoy watersports or to downrig for kokanee, burbot or rainbow trout. Since species run deeper to cooler water in the summer, two to six-ounce weights are a good alternative over a downrigger.

While in the area, perhaps plan a night at the Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort or the Hotel Eldorado at Eldorado Resort. While both have boat access and a launch ramp, the Eldorado has a full-service marina and slips available for hotel guests, making it a great home base to enjoy the lake.

Dining is excellent at both locations with many more options downtown. Have lunch or dinner at Krafty Kitchen and Bar, which is about two minutes from Kelowna Downtown Marina or try the gourmet pizza at DunnEnzies. You can also quench your thirst with a frosty pint in the city’s growing brewery district. Located near the waterfront, local craft beers are king and there are several offerings at places like the Bad Tattoo - Kelowna, Rustic Reel Brewing Co., and Red Bird Brewing.

To see more of this area, stroll along Waterfront Park or take a drive along the expansive Westside Rd. with its magnificent views of Okanagan Lake. While scenic, take your time as the winding road is exposed in areas (and not recommended for those who experience serious vertigo). It also leads to a variety of parks, resorts, and campgrounds.

Day 3: Kalamalka Lake/Wood Lake

Running parallel along the east side of Okanagan Lake, just north of Kelowna and south of Vernon, Kalamalka (or just ‘Kal Lake’) is in Lake Country and accessed via Hwy/BC-97.

Popular among recreational boaters, Kalamalka is a marl lake, which means it has a large amount of calcium carbonate deposits that change the colour of the water to a stunning turquoise blue when the temperature rises. The lake spans approximately 16 km (10 mi) long, 3 km (2 mi) at its widest point and has a surface area of 25.7 sq km (10 sq mi), providing excellent boating opportunities and anchorages.

Access to the water is via the boat launches at Kalamalka’s north and south end, but perhaps stay the night at Kekuli Bay Provincial Park, which also has boat launches and a campground with four double lake-view sites. Set up camp, launch your runabout and then spend a day tubing and fishing. Anchoring in Jade or Juniper bays is recommended and Rattlesnake Point is another great moorage.

Should the weather become too hot (as temps soar peak summer) plan for an afternoon picnic in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park. It has designated day-use areas and even water access to cool off - you won’t regret it.

To enhance your visit here with a little more comfort, Turtle Bay Resort Hotel and Marina on neighbouring Wood Lake to the south is a safe bet. It has a full-service marina with guest moorage, fuel, a boat launch and comfortable accommodations. It’s easily accessible from Hwy/BC-97  and while services are available, more essential needs can be found in nearby Vernon.

It’s easy to find a perfect destination in the Tri-Lakes and the only difficult part of visiting the region is choosing what to experience. Nevertheless, the area is worthy of return trips season after season to enhance your summer every year.