About the Park
Kalamalka Provincial Park is one of the North Okanagan’s most popular parks. Sitting along the Coldstream Valley, the 3,200-hectare park is adorned with Douglas-fir groves and Ponderosa pine. The park’s natural setting is highlighted by a spectacular spring wildflower show, and the undeveloped nature attracts a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, and plants that inhabit the mosaic of grasslands. With over 432 varieties of vascular plants identified in the park, it is considered rare for such a small area. During your time here, you’ll experience a mixture of desert grassland, wetlands, canyons, thick pine forests, and of course incredible views. This peaceful park is a gem in the region – one that is ideal for studying and appreciating natural history year-round.
Activities
Kalamalka Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities at any time of year:
Hiking:
This park offers some of the best hiking trails in the North Okanagan. The trails vary in difficulty, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a heart-pumping hike, Kalamalka Provincial Park has something for everyone.
Mountain Biking:
Mountain biking is one of the more popular activities here, with trails suitable for all levels of riders. The park offers a mix of technical and flowy singletrack through diverse terrain, including grasslands, forests, and rocky outcroppings. With stunning views of Kalamalka Lake and the surrounding mountains, this is one of the best trail networks in the Okanagan. For more information on mountain biking in Kalamalka Provincial Park, click here!
Swimming:
Swim buoys are only visible in the three main bays of Kalamalka Park, whereas smaller pocket beaches, though some just as good of swimming spots, remain unmarked. It is important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty at any of the swimming areas.
Wildlife Viewing:
Kalamalka Park is a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, with many opportunities to see a variety of animals and birdlife. For the best vantage point, the viewing platform atop Rattlesnake Point offers breathtaking views of Kalamalka Lake and eight benches for comfortable seating.
Beaches:
There are three main beaches in the park. Jade Bay, Juniper Bay, and Cosens Bay. Each provides great access to swimming in Kalamalka Lake. Dogs are permitted at the east end of Cosens Bay, as well as between the boat launch and the Entrance Bay Day Use area of Jade Bay.
Parking
Park users have access to a variety of parking areas. Depending on where you’d like to go, you can park at Jade & Juniper Bay, Twin Bays, and Yellow Gate, all of which are accessible from the main park entrance off Kidston Road. Another parking area is the Red Gate on Kidston Road, but be mindful that you are not allowed to park on the road. Cosens Bay also has a parking area, which is located on Cosens Bay Road, south of Coldstream Creek Road. There is also a Climbers Lot available on Cosens Bay Road in the southeast portion of the park, where a trail leads to, well you guess it…. the climbing area!