Vacation rentals in Vernon

The biggest city in the Okanagan region, Vernon promises a front-row seat to British Columbia’s great outdoors, with activities that range from skiing and snowshoeing in the winter to fishing and paddling in the summer. While here, you’ll likely find yourself spending time around one of the area's gorgeous freshwater lakes, be it Okanagan Lake, known for its trophy burbot and rainbow trout, or Kalamalka Lake with its striking greenish blue waters. Vernon’s handful of provincial parks keep you swimming in trail options for hiking and biking, while the downtown offers craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and the gleaming Vernon and District Performing Arts Center, which presents dance, theatre, and live music.

Summers in Vernon are mild and warm without being hot. Winters are snowy and cold, but perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. Fall is especially beautiful because of the crisp temperatures and changing foliage. The Great Vernon Pumpkin Classic in October involves participants paddling actual giant pumpkins. Autumn is also the time for salmon fishing. In winter, you can ski at a nearby mountain, go snowshoeing, or enjoy the Vernon Winter Carnival in February. Spring brings lush landscapes of budding trees and flowers and is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying a round of golf.

Okanagan Rail Trail

Constructed in 1925, the CN Rail Line used to bring produce and lumber from the Okanagan Valley to markets across the country. When it shut down in 2013, the community turned it into a 32-mile biking and walking path. The path winds through parks, lakefronts, and forest. You can also pack a picnic or stop at one of the restaurants along the way.

Kalamalka Lake

Just south of town, this freshwater lake looks like it was plucked from the pages of a Caribbean travel brochure. Its crystal blue-green waters are a result of large calcium carbonate deposits. As the water warms in summer, the lake turns even greener. Post up at Kalamalka Beach, known for its long strip of soft golden sand, volleyball courts, paddleboat rentals, and wooden pier. There are also a number of trails nearby, including the ​​Okanagan Rail Trail.

Silver Star Provincial Park

Silver Star Provincial Park is an alpine paradise in summer and a winter sport playground in the winter. About 45 minutes from downtown Vernon, the park is popular with cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobiling enthusiasts. Summer hikers will enjoy the Silver Star Mountain Trail, while winter snowshoers should set out on the Sovereign Lake Ridgeline Snow Loop.