McIntyre Bluff Pictographs
A spectacular hike in the south Okanagan
Hiking Moderate
- Distance
- 8.4 km
- Ascent
- 430 m
- Descent
- 430 m
- Duration
- 2-3 hrs
- Low Point
- 331 m
- High Point
- 583 m
- Gradient
- 13˚
Towering above the southern Okanagan Valley, near the town of Oliver, McIntyre Bluff is a striking landmark visible from miles away.
Description
One of the main attractions of McIntyre Bluff is the stunning panoramic views it offers of the surrounding landscape. From the top of the bluff, you can take in sweeping vistas of vineyards, orchards, and the shimmering waters of Vaseux Lake below. The line we've drawn here goes up and over the Bluff, but it can obviously be done as a return trip, or an out-and-back to the high point above them.
McIntyre Bluff holds cultural significance for the Syilx/Okanagan First Nations, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The bluff is considered a sacred site and plays an important role in the cultural heritage of the local Indigenous communities. The famous pictographs are evidence of this history, and are a fascinating insight into the history of the Sylix/Okanagan people.
Difficulty
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
Best time to visit
Features
- Wildlife
- Historical
- Picturesque
- Family friendly