Myra Canyon: What to Know Before You Go

Posted by Dave Kotler on Thursday, April 17th, 2025 at 11:20am.

What to Know About Myra Canyon

Myra Canyon is one of the best places to hike near Kelowna, BC—but it’s so much more. The Myra Canyon Trail, also known as the Myra Canyon Trestles for its distinctive trestle bridges, follows the path of the historic Kettle Valley Railway.

Though trains haven’t run on this line since the late 1980s, its transformation into one of British Columbia’s most popular outdoor attractions has made it more popular than ever. 

With amazing views and cool sights, Myra Canyon feels like stepping back in time. Dive in and prepare for your epic adventure on the Myra Canyon Trail!

Tips for Your Myra Canyon Adventure

  • Drive about 25 km southeast of Kelowna to reach Myra Canyon
  • Get there early—parking spots at Myra and Ruth Stations fill up fast
  • The trail is 25.1 km long—perfect for hiking and biking
  • Rent bikes right at the trailhead if you don't bring your own
  • Bring water and wear good shoes—the weather can change quickly
  • Check out the information signs along the trail to learn about the canyon's history
  • Wheelchair-accessible facilities are available at the parking area on Myra Forest Service Road

What Makes Myra Canyon Special?

Myra Canyon, located 25 kilometres southeast of Kelowna, is one of the most popular outdoor sites in the Okanagan Valley. It's the most famous stretch of the old Kettle Valley Railway, which has been repurposed into the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.

The Myra Canyon section has 18 wooden bridges built over 100 years ago in 1915, and two tunnels run along the trail. These features make it one of the most unique places to hike in the country!

People come from all over to hike and bike here.

Where Is Myra Canyon?

Myra Canyon is Southeast From Downtown Kelowna

Myra Canyon is about 24 km from Downtown Kelowna, BC. The trail has 18 wooden bridges and stunning mountain views.

In normal conditions, the drive from Kelowna takes about 40 minutes. You'll drive on Myra Forest Service Road, which is gravel. Be careful—the road is narrow with blind corners.

For hikers and bikers who fall in love with the trail (not uncommon!), Southeast Kelowna is less than 15 kilometres from the site. 

The Story Behind the Railway

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail is a 650-kilometre converted rail line that’s been completely repurposed for recreational use. The Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) was completed in 1915, and the last train ran on it back in 1989.

The trail runs from Hope, its westernmost point, to Castlegar, its easternmost. Along the way, it passes through some of British Columbia's most beautiful areas, including the Boundary region and the beautiful Okanagan Valley.

The Bellevue Trestle is one of the best parts. Workers fixed the trail and bridges to make them safe. You'll cross 18 wooden bridges and go through two tunnels.

A big fire in 2003 burned many bridges. Helpers rebuilt them, turning a bad event into something good.

Look for signs along the trail that tell the story of the railway and how it was fixed after the fire. This blend of history and nature makes for a great outdoor trip.

Plan Your Trip

When to Visit

The trail is open all year. Each season is different:

Summer (June to August): Hot weather and long days are the hallmarks of summer in Kelowna. This is the busiest time. Great for hiking and biking on dry trails.

Fall (September to October): Nice weather and pretty fall colours. Fewer people but still warm enough to enjoy.

Winter (November to April): Lots of snow for winter fun. Try snowshoeing or special snow bikes. It’s also a top option for cross-country skiing near Kelowna.

Spring (May to June): New plants and flowers bloom. Good weather for hiking and biking without summer crowds.

How to Get There

Getting to the trail is easy:

By Car: Most people drive. From Kelowna, take K.L.O. Road until it turns into McCulloch Road. Then, follow McCulloch Road past the golf course (one of Kelowna’s best courses). Keep going until you reach the Myra Station parking lot.

By Bike: Ride from Kelowna or rent a bike at Myra Station.

By Shuttle: Many tour companies offer rides from Kelowna if you don't have a car.

Things to Do at Myra Canyon

Activities at Myra Canyon

Myra Canyon offers great hiking and biking trails along the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail.

The new Myra Canyon Adventure Park adds even more fun activities for visitors.

Hiking and Biking

A round-trip hike takes about 6.5 hours, while a moderately-paced bike ride can take about 2.5 hours. One of the best biking trails near Kelowna, you don’t even need to have a bike: you can rent one at the trailhead and hit the trail right away.

Take breaks at the picnic areas along the way to enjoy the amazing views. Casual bike riders and walkers can learn about local history from the signs along the trail.

Myra Canyon Adventure Park

The Myra Canyon Adventure Park—one of the best kid-friendly activities in Kelowna—is located near the trail. 

It offers thrilling aerial obstacle courses and zipline courses, including a Kinder Course that’s suitable for ages 3 and up.

Fun for Everyone

Myra Canyon also offers fun activities for those less inclined to hike or bike:

  • Horseback Riding: Take guided horseback rides from nearby stables for a different way to see the canyon.
  • Picnicking: Stop at one of the many picnic areas along the trail and enjoy lunch with a view.

Stay Safe on the Trail

Myra Canyon Trail is fun for all ages, but safety comes first:

  • Drive carefully on the forest service road to the trailhead—it can be narrow and rough in places.
  • Stay in the middle of the path when crossing high bridges with steep drops.
  • Wear bug spray and proper clothing to protect against ticks.
  • Consider renting hybrid or electric bikes if you have physical limitations.
  • Carry bear spray for wildlife encounters and avoid using headphones so you can stay alert.
  • Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly.
  • Be extra careful if it has rained recently—trails can get slippery.

Canyon Facilities & Amenities

Myra and Ruth Stations both have good-sized parking lots, but they fill up quickly in summer mornings. Try to arrive early to get a spot.

At Myra Station, Canyon Bicycle Rental offers bikes with helmets so you can explore the trails safely.

Look for information signs along the way that tell you about the area's history and famous bridges. When you need a break, stop at picnic areas with mountain views.

Remember to take your trash with you to keep the area clean and beautiful.

Make the Most of Your Trip to Myra Canyon

The Myra Canyon Trail gets busy, especially in summer. Getting there early helps you find parking. The park is open year-round, but services run from mid-April to November 15.

Whether you bike through old railway tunnels or hike across the amazing wooden bridges, you'll love your time at Myra Canyon. Rent a bike at Myra Station if you need one, and take time to read the information signs to learn about the history and nature around you.

Whether you live near Myra Canyon or you're a tourist looking to connect with nature, this famous Canadian canyon welcomes you.

Dave Kotler

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