Description

Sitting at the far end of the Okanagan's Mission Valley is a remarkably wild park which is home to bears, snakes and some fabulous hiking.

Okanagan Mountain Park is 110 kilometres and is stunning and wild in equal measure. There are a number of excellent hiking and biking trips in the park, but the return trip to Divide Lake is one of the best.

The trail itself isn't super interesting, being an abandoned jeep track, but the terrain through which it leads is wonderful.

The trail starts out in forests and gradually leads you up onto more open, almost alpine-esque ground, with huge views across to Little White and over the vast expanse of Okanagan Lake.

After a few hours of climbing you'll reach the plateau which is home to Divide Lake, and it's a fitting prize for your efforts.

The lake itself is small and nestled into a mini valley, making it an amazingly peaceful spot.

There's a campground at the lake, but it's basic, with a run down (but still waterproof) little hut, a single compost toilet and a bear hang.

There are several camping spots surrounding the hut and some have little fire rings, so if you're planning to overnight then pick a spot and enjoy the tranquility! The trip back down to civilisation from the lake is via the ascent route, but the views are far better as you're facing down towards the Okanagan valley rather than facing away from it as you were on the way up.

A few things to be aware of before heading into Okanagan Mountain Park are - * It's got a notoriously large rattlesnake population! Keep a close eye out for snakes and make every effort not to get close to one - they only attacked when provoked. * There are plenty of bears so carry a bear spray, use best practise when camping, and make noise when you're moving. * The Park is desert-like in its dryness, so only have a camp fire when there is no fire ban in place, and be incredibly careful about containing your fire, and putting it out before going to bed.