Similkameen Valley Road Trip
Get off the beaten path in the Similkameen Valley where rugged slopes and dramatic peaks surround BC’s second largest wine region.
From Route 97 in Osoyoos, take Highway 3 (Crowsnest Highway) 48 km (30 mi) west toward Keremeos. The towns of Cawston and Keremeos are agricultural hubs home to most of the Similkameen Valley’s wineries. Considered the “organic capital of Canada,” the area has the highest density of organic farming in the country. The fruit-stand lined highways will have you enjoying some of the best produce the province has to offer.
Follow the Similkameen River 66.5 km (41 mi) toward Princeton. On the way, explore the old mining town of Hedley or cool off in the waters of the Similkameen’s most popular swimming hole in Bromley Rock Provincial Park.
In Princeton, there are many ways to embrace the outdoors - hike or bike the China Ridge Trails or the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, fish in the Similkameen or Tulameen Rivers or bird watch at Swan Lake Bird Sanctuary.
Continue along Highway 3 approximately 66 km (41 mi) and you’ll find the momentous E.C. Manning Provincial Park at almost 84,000 hectares in size. Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, it’s home to five provincial campgrounds, a host of wilderness campsites and Manning Park Resort. Whether you’re in the mood to kayak, hike or ski in the winter, Manning has an abundance of outdoor activities and flora and fauna to enjoy.
Not to be Missed
Cathedral Provincial Park and Protected Area
is home to over 80,000 acres (33,000 hectares) of pristine wilderness and backcountry adventure. Its unique geological composition provides a backdrop of unique rock formations that contrast with turquoise lakes among granite.
The Cascade Lookout
is an easily accessible drive-up viewing area in E.C. Manning Provincial Park that offers arresting mountain views from both sides of the Canada-US border. Watch the sunset behind the Cascade Mountain Range and keep an eye out for local wildlife.
Spotted Lake (kłlilx’w)
is a protected cultural heritage site of the Syilx people. It’s an ecologically sensitive body of water so rich in minerals that when the water evaporates in the summer heat, spots form on the surface.
Key Annual Events
Heritage Harvest Dinner (The Grist Mill and Gardens, October)
Explore the Similkameen Valley
Where to Stay
Regional Information
