Osoyoos
Okanagan Valley, Osoyoos, British Colombia
The small town of Osoyoos, British Columbia, is big on adventure. If it’s outdoor activities you’re after, your options include canoeing, hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Art galleries appeal to culture lovers, while wine enthusiasts will find plenty of worthwhile varietals to taste.
The Basics
Roughly 5,000 people call Osoyoos, home. Osoyoos is located in Canada’s only desert, 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) north of the U.S. border. The town sits on the banks of Osoyoos Lake, which is cradled in a narrow valley. The climate here makes for excellent grape cultivation, and wineries are among the area’s main attractions. You can tour this part of the Okanagan wine country by electric bike or car, or as part of a group tour.
Visitors flock to Osoyoos Lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. If you’re interested in culture and history, check out the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre and Osoyoos Desert Centre for exhibits and trails through the desert. The town’s history is on display at the Osoyoos Museum, which houses native and pioneer artifacts. Other top activities here include stargazing, snowshoeing, and bird-watching.
Things to Know Before You Go
Osoyoos attracts every type of traveler, including active adults and families with children.
Osoyoos is a popular year-round attraction, but it’s busiest in summer.
Because it’s located in a desert, Osoyoos can be quite dry. Visitors should drink plenty of water and bring sunscreen.
How to Get There
Osoyoos is located 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) from the U.S. border, just north of Washington State. It is 14 miles from the Oliver Airport. The town is accessible by car off Highways 97 and 3.
When to Get There
The timing of your visit depends on your ultimate goal. If you’re after warm-weather activities, your best bet is to visit in late spring, summer, and early fall. If you’re hoping for a quieter visit, late fall, early spring, and winter will suit you. There are plenty of outdoor activities and cultural attractions to enjoy all year.
Things to Do on Osoyoos Lake
Osoyoos Lake is the town’s centerpiece. The lake stretches 11 miles long, crossing the border into Washington State. You can access the lake for swimming or picnicking via several beaches and parks, including Gyro Beach, Legion Beach, Haynes Point, and Goodman Park. Visitors can also rent paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, Jet Skis, or charter boats. Spring and fall are the best seasons for fishing.
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