What is the Trail of the Okanagans Society?

The Trail of the Okanagans Society is a volunteer advocacy group with a vision of a fully connected hiking and biking trail from Sicamous BC to Brewster Washington. Our advocacy focus is on a linear trail between the Bennett Bridge in Kelowna and the Canada / US Border. These efforts would connect at the north end to the work of the Okanagan Rail Trail and Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail. The Trail of the Okanagans Society is governed by a board of directors with representation from each community from West Kelowna to Osoyoos. We are a registered non-profit society.  

 Why is the group called the Trail of the Okanagans?

Our name and vision is founded on the historic Syilx First Nations trade route that followed the Okanagan River, valley and lake system. We are focused on building partnerships with the West Bank First Nation, the Penticton Indian Band, and the Osoyoos Indian Band. It is our hope that the Trail will be delivered with the collective guidance and vision of our First Nations partners as an act of meaningful reconciliation. We hope to build on the example and spirit of partnership to the north of us under the leadership of the Splatsin Band to deliver the Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail.

 How was the TotO route chosen?

We have mapped a preferred trail route between the Bennett Bridge and the International Border. Wherever possible, the route uses existing First Nation, Regional or Municipal active transportation plans. Our priority is for safe trails away from motorized traffic and for trail design that meets the BC Active Transportation Design Guidelines “All Ages and Abilities” standard. We work with all jurisdictions along the route, to include the Trail of the Okanagans within their official plans and to implement trail design standards that meet the BC Active Transportation Design Guidelines. We advocate for the Trail to be a priority for delivery within active transportation plans and projects.

 How much of the Trail is usable now?

Of the 125km from the Bennett Bridge, approximately 91km or 73% can be cycled now. Of this 24% is AAA or suitable for all ages and all abilities; 18% is rail bed; 5% is suitable only for hiking and 1% is private land.

 Where are the missing links?

There are 5 missing links or gaps in the Trail of the Okanagans route. To better understand where these are, you can explore our The Route web page.

Who is working to fill the missing links?

The vast majority of the trail route between the bridge and the border is within First Nation, Regional District, Municipal or Ministry of Transportation jurisdiction. As a result, the development, ownership and maintenance of the trail will fall within their respective authorities. In some cases, agreements are made between jurisdictions for the delivery and maintenance of the trail. The primary role of our Society is in advocacy for the development of the linear pathway.

What has the Trail of the Okanagans Society done so far to make this happen?

A great way to learn about what we’ve accomplished recently and where we’re headed is to check out our President’s message in our 2023 Annual Report. If you become a member you will be added to our newsletter distribution and will receive regular updates on the many projects we have undertaken from trail signage, fund raising for engineering studies, to outreach to local and First Nations governments.

Why should I become a member?

Without members and membership fees we could not operate. We are entirely a volunteer organization and have no paid staff. By becoming a member you are providing funds essential to our advocacy work through our web site, remote conferencing, and liability insurance.  Click here to go to our membership and donation page.

 How can I use some of the trail now?

The best means of seeing what’s usable now is to explore our web page: The Route!

Where can I get more information?

You can follow us on Facebook, and you don’t have to have a Facebook account to do it!