Parks, Natural Sites, Wildlife

The spectacular Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (pronounced in-ka-meep) is the Okanagan’s family tourism destination. Representing the Okanagan Nation and the Osoyoos Indian band the Centre is key in Aboriginal Tourism in BC.

Skaha Bluffs Park provides a variety of recreation opportunities including hiking, rockclimbing and wildlife viewing while also protecting habitat for a variety of species at risk. World-class climbing opportunities are found at Skaha Bluffs though it is important to note that climbing is prohibited in the southern area (the section of the park that encompasses Gillies Creek).

Great Horned Owl Eco Tours specializes in small groups led by friendly and informative guides. As you explore the rare ecosystems in and around Canada’s only desert, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of this region through the stories and knowledge shared by these local area experts. We provide outdoor enthusiasts of all ages a variety of unique educational excursions and exciting learning opportunities.

With years of international experience, Hoodoo Adventures has devised an array of guided trips and team events that are sure to enhance and improve your experiences both at work and at play. We specialize in delivering quality adventure activities such as kayaking, hiking, mountain biking and rappelling. Our aim is to provide Eco-Adventures throughout the Okanagan's unique environments for both individuals and groups. We are one of the premiere Adventure Tourism and Team Building providers in the Okanagan.

Lakawana Park is a recreation community park situated on the north end of Penticton. The park is a family destination with tennis courts, large grass lawns, playground, splash park and a concession area. Nearby is a skateboard park. The park is 4 acres in size and includes a paved walking path. Throughout the maintained park are some picnic tables and sitting benches. Some benches view the lake while others are under trees and near playgrounds. The highlights of the park the splash park, the tennis courts and the cool steam train in the playground near the change rooms.

Munson Mountain is a park located on the east side of Okanagan Lake. You will see Penticton's name in huge white lettering on the side of Munson Mountain. Access the Munson Mountain view point trail by making your way across town to Middle Bench Road then on to Munson Mountain Road.The paved parking lot is easily found, as is the groomed gravel trail to the top of this very old volcanic core. The main path to the first view point is perfect for people of all ages and hike/walking ability, including those with wheelchairs.

The site of Penticton's smallest village, the Safety village. On a quiet street, this park area offers a softball diamond as well as a playground.

The S.S. Sicamous was the last and the biggest ever passenger boat built by the CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway). It was launched in 1914. The paddle wheel boats were built to service the communities of the Okanagan Valley.The 228 foot passenger boat transported trappers, miners and forestry workers from lake community to lake community. During lake travel the rich would occupy one of the 40 staterooms on board the SS Sicamous. Today this passanger boat is a tourist attraction for all to remember, located on the sandy shore of Okanagan Lake.

A vacation should be relaxing, and the Penticton-Ikeda Japanese Garden provides a peaceful setting in which to take a deep breath and contemplate life; it was created in honour of a relationship between Penticton and the city of Ikeda, Japan. Rocks, trees, water, and plants foster a serene rest-stop for visitors who wish to unwind after an active day of wine touring, golfing or water-sport activities. The garden is located at the East end of the Lake Okanagan waterfront, not far from the Yacht Club and Art Gallery.