6 ways to escape the busy tourist season in Kelowna

Tourist season is in full swing in Kelowna, and while it is good for the local economy, the influx of people can be a headache for locals.

There are lots of activities to take in during the summer months in the city, but here are some tips for those looking for some peace and quiet from the hustle and bustle.

While there has been a lot of controversy recently about travellers snapping up provincial camping spots, there are plenty of family-run campgrounds in the area to take advantage of instead.

Pinaus Lake Resort is one of those locations worth checking out if you are looking for rustic camping. Located less than two hours from Kelowna just outside Falkland, the family-run resort offers cabins, campsites, fishing and boat rentals. With two lakes available at the resort, there should be plenty of room to enjoy a weekend away with the family.

Cabins start as just $55 per night and with only a handful of campgrounds available, Pinaus Lake Resort is perfect for a quick getaway with the family.

If you are looking for something more adventurous consider spending a weekend at Kumsheen Rafting Resort. White-water rafting along the Thompson and Fraser rivers will be an experience to remember. While it is not cheap — a half day adventure starts at $135 per adult — the mini-getaway should be worth it.

The resort features different types of accommodations such as cabins, RV sites, tent camping sites and Anishinabe--style Teepees.

Okanagan Lake is usually full of boaters in the summer, but just down the highway, locals can enjoy some water time by floating down the Shuswap River in Enderby. One of the most popular activities to enjoy in the area, tubing can be either a quick adventure or a long, leisurely afternoon. If you are new to tubing or the river in general, start with the slowest, safest and shortest route: Belvidere Park to Tuey Park. If you want to stop early, you can get out at the boat launch north of the Riverside RV Park. This float will take less than two hours. If you are looking for a longer float, there are several that will last more than five hours. Visit the Enderby Chamber website for more information.

If you are looking for fun and games, consider heading to Sun Peaks Resort for a try at the Mountain Cross Carts (MCC). The resort is home to the only, and first, MCC course in North America. Unlike traditional go-carts, these carts are capable of reaching speeds up to 35 km/h.

With a 512-metre long course that includes a 52-metre vertical descent and hairpin turns, the track will thrill and excite you. The carts do not have motors and are gravity fed and four laps will cost you $25. Runs are timed so you can compete with friends or family members for bragging rights. When you think adventure, an off-road Segway tour may not be top of mind, but it should be.

Also available at Sun Peaks Resort, the tours start can be one hour and just $60 per person. These babies travel up to 25 km/h and the guide will take you around the resort, on challenging terrain normally used for cross-country biking, hiking or skiing. The tour is both fun and filled with excitement, worth trying at least once in your life.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort recently launched the single-track Pipe Mountain Coaster. Enthusiasts from all over are heading to the resort to check out the 1.4 km of twists and turns which include a 279-metre vertical drop. Travelling up to 42 km/h, the coaster is sure to leave your palms sweaty and get your heart racing. A single ride costs just $19 and discounts are available for children and seniors.

If you are looking for a free summer adventure that is slightly challenging but ends with wine, consider biking the KVR Trail from Kelowna to Penticton. With a sturdy bike, a backpack of food and water, this adventure is free to do and available for all skill levels. While it will take several hours to complete (too long for many children), this is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. In a previous article by KelownaNow we highlight the ups and downs of the ride, but if properly planned it can be a fun, free afternoon. Plan to get dropped off by a family member or friend, and picked up in Naramata or Penticton by someone as well. The trail will take you straight to Naramata’s wine country which means lunch and wine can be your reward.