Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
About Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park lies on a picturesque rocky peninsula that extends out into the lake of the same name, Kalamalka, also known as “the lake of many colors”. It is situated about ten minutes outside of the city of Vernon, British Columbia, and is possibly the most popular and beautiful park in the region. The park features around 978 hectares (2,420 acres) of arid Okanagan Valley wilderness that boasts gorgeous coves and beaches, along with scenic hiking trails looking out over the blue waters of the lake. The park is not only famous for its spectacular views and great swimming but is also well-known for its cliff diving spots. There are three main parking lots for entry into the park, each with its own set of hiking trails and beach destinations.
Kalamalka Lake is what is called a “marl” lake, meaning that when the lake warms in the summer, limestone particles crystallize and reflect the sun, in turn, giving the lake an unbelievable blue color, which can be witnessed to the fullest extent while hiking the trails high above the water.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park YouTube Video
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
How to Get There
Map of Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
History
The park had long been occupied before the Europeans arrived and several stone circles have been discovered that can be attributed to First Nations peoples, who probably used the park as a hunting and fishing grounds. Later on, it was to become a part of the local Coldstream Ranch and was used for farming purposes. Eventually, it would be used for WW2 training and finally, in 1975 it was opened to the public for a day-use area.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
Wildlife
The park provides an excellent environment for some of the Okanagan Valley’s unique creatures including species of reptiles like rubber boas, western rattlesnakes, common and western garter snakes, yellow-bellied racer, gopher snakes, American alligator lizard, and painted turtles. You may also spot numerous species of mammals such as coyotes, deer, black bear, Columbian ground squirrels, yellow-ballied marmots, mink, bobcat, cougars, and red fox.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
Hiking Trails in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
There are many hiking trails in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park and they all have something to offer and are worth the time and energy.
Kalamalaka Lake Provincial Park Hiking Trails
Crest Trail
Cosens Bay Waterfall
Corral Trail
Comin Round the Mountain
The Parabola
The Wall
Lookout Trail
Loop Trail 1
Loop Trail 2
Sidewinder Trail
High Rim Trail
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
Beaches in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
There are four main beaches in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park as well as several small beach areas and coves for cliff diving and swimming. All of the beaches and swimming areas in the park require hiking with the shortest being Jade Bay Beach and the longest being Cosens Bay Beach.
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park Beaches
Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon, BC
Beaches in Vernon, BC
