Description

Despite its proximity to the suburbs and box stores of West Kelowna, Rose Valley Lake feels remote, and once you're by its shore you won't be able to see any signs that the modern world exists.

Rose Valley Regional Park is easily accessed from several points but backs onto some truly wild terrain and we humans have to share the area with bears and other wildlife.

Carry a bear spray with you on this hike and be "bear aware", especially if hiking with dogs (which are allowed on all Rose Valley trails provided they are kept on leash). The loop shown here can be done by parking either by Rose Valley Elementary School (as drawn here) or at the parking lot next to the junction of Rosealee Lane and Rosewood Drive.

Both options provide ample parking and have information boards. From Rose Valley Elementary School take one of the many paths with lead north-west up onto the blunt ridge which separates Rose Valley Lake from the main Okanagan valley.

There is very little signposting between the parking lot and the ridge, but just follow our line (or just keep drifting upwards - you won't go too far wrong).

The trails up to the ridge climb gently and are never overly strenuous, although you do most of the height gain for the whole hike on the way to the ridge.

The vista from the ridge is utterly spectacular, with Rose Valley Lake beckoning you below you, and Okanagan Lake filling the view to the east.

Drop down some steep zig zags to reach the lake shore, at which point the signposting really improves.

Stroll around the lake enjoying the peaceful ambience and beautiful views before - sadly - waving goodbye to the wilderness and dropping down into the suburbs of West Kelowna.

Follow roads and then a short trail back to the parking lot.