Be enticed by lakeside beaches, fertile orchard-lined valleys and a waterfall taller than Niagara in this region that overflows with dramatic scenery and history.
The landscape in the Thompson Okanagan is renowned for its diversity, containing the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, sun-ripened harvests and pristine lakes. Different seasons bring different appeal to the magnificent landscape, as the lakeside forests and wildflower-dotted meadows turn into exciting ski destinations.
Experience farm-to-table dining in the Okanagan ValleyOpens in a new window, which is home to exceptional vineyards and orchards. Sample delicious regional wines or play a round on one of the golf courses that pattern the valley’s landscape. Check out the charming city of KelownaOpens in a new window to experience fantastic dining in the region’s largest city. Check out Kelowna’s stretch of Lake Okanagan beaches to stretch out on the sand or go boating. In winter, head to Big White Ski ResortOpens in a new window for some of the Thompson Okanagan’s best skiing.
Trace the region’s lineage to its First Nations people at KamloopsOpens in a new window, where you can learn about local culture at the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park or attend the annual powwow. This region is renowned for its golden grasslands and cattle ranches. Travel into the Thompson Plateau’s high country to reach Kamloops’ playground for outdoor adventures. Hike or mountain bike through the rugged terrain or go paddling down whitewater rapids.
Spend long summer days by the lake in Shuswap, the Thompson Okanagan’s premier lake region. Go swimming, kayaking, canoeing or boating with the Monashee Mountains as your backdrop. In South Okanagan, you’ll find the dry landscapes of Canada’s only desert terrain. Explore this region to find sun-drenched vineyards, fascinating cacti groves and desert wildflowers. Check out the provincial parks of Wells Gray and Mount Robinson to experience the remote wilderness on a fishing trip or see the monumental cascades of 463-foot (141-meter) Helmcken Falls.
The Thompson Okanagan is situated in southeastern British Columbia. Reach the region via its international airport in Kelowna or domestic airports in Kamloops and PentictonOpens in a new window. Reach the region’s communities by bus and by ferry. Explore the region via its convenient and scenic highways or make a stopover in Kamloops when riding The Canadian and see the majestic Rockies from your cozy train carriage.
