For a spectacular waterfall in the South Okanagan, Naramata Falls is a must visit destination. There are so many different forces of water flowing and trickling down the falls that you’ll be constantly mesmerized.
While travelling towards Penticton, drive north on the east of Okanagan Lake towards Naramata. The entrance to Naramata Creek Park is roughly 9 kms from where Reservoir Road intersects with North Naramata Road.
Take the gravel road, turning right where it intersects with the Trans Canada Trail. You will see a parking lot on the right for the Kettle Valley Railway where you can follow the trail according to the sign.
Your hike from the parking lot to the falls is roughly 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how fast you go!
Hike Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult
Be prepared as heading down the road bed was quite steep with loose rock. Once you get to the falls, the trail is nice and flat.
When at the falls, you will see water actually flowing under the trail on your right. Just below is a rock bed to follow, which is probably the easiest way to get down.
As you're walking, you will see and hear the amazing waterfalls streaming down the valley. There will be a few places to stop and have a snack along the way. I recommend taking a seat at the top of the falls, just below the rock bed. You’ll be able to watch the water plummet down below.
Attire needed:
Hiking shoes/runners
Backpack with water/snack
Whistle/bear spray/bear bell (I always have my bear bell on my pack just as a precaution)
Note:
These falls are approximately 1.5 hours from downtown Kelowna. It took us about two hours to complete the trail to Naramata Falls when you include stopping for lunch and taking photos and videos of the falls.
Due to the distance of the falls from Downtown Kelowna, I recommend going to Naramata Falls for a full day and even heading down the Trans Canada Trail to enjoy the views of Okanagan Lake.
I hope that you enjoy the falls and have a day full of sunshine as opposed to my cloudy day!
- Carlee Kish (Nature Jane)
Carlee Kish is a 23-year-old hiking enthusiast who has lived in Kelowna for two years now. Originally from Regina, Saskatchewan, Kish fell in love with the mountains and hiking during a family trip as a youngster. She has a passion for the wilderness and capturing it along the way with beautiful photos. Kish lives for the outdoors and you can follow her adventures as she relishes in moss during her captivating hikes and boundless adventures. Be sure to follow Carlee's adventures on Instagram @CarleeKish.
