Myra Canyon Trestles Kelowna
Explore the historic Myra Canyon Trestles, a stunning 24km trail with 18 bridges and 2 tunnels offering panoramic Okanagan Valley views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Myra Canyon Trestles Kelowna
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Myra Canyon Trestles, a stunning 24km trail with 18 bridges and 2 tunnels offering panoramic Okanagan Valley views.
"The scenery is absolutely breathtaking — the views from the trestle bridges are something you really have to see in person. "
🚗 Drive Carefully Up
The gravel road to the trailhead can be rough with sharp turns. SUVs or trucks are recommended. :car:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
There's very little shade on the trail, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Trestle Bridges
Kettle Valley Railway Trail
Walk or bike across 18 historic wooden trestle bridges offering breathtaking canyon views.
The Tunnels
Kettle Valley Railway Trail
Experience two unique rock tunnels carved into the mountainside along the historic railway line.
Panoramic Okanagan Views
Along the trail
Soak in sweeping vistas of the Okanagan Valley from elevated viewpoints on the trestles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There & Trail Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Carefully Up
The gravel road to the trailhead can be rough with sharp turns. SUVs or trucks are recommended. :car:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
There's very little shade on the trail, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure, especially if you plan to go further along the trail. :water_wave:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes at the trailhead to cover more of the 24km round trip trail. :bike:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully Up
The gravel road to the trailhead can be rough with sharp turns. SUVs or trucks are recommended. :car:
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
There's very little shade on the trail, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your adventure, especially if you plan to go further along the trail. :water_wave:
🚲 Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes at the trailhead to cover more of the 24km round trip trail. :bike:
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Path
The wide, flat gravel path is perfect for strollers, kids, and pets. :child:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The scenery from the trestles is stunning and worth photographing. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Myra Canyon Trestles for their breathtaking scenery and unique historical significance. The well-maintained, flat trail is highly accessible for walking, biking, families, and pets. While the drive up can be a bit rough, the stunning views and the experience of crossing the trestles make it a must-do in Kelowna.
"Visiting Myra Canyon was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Kelowna! The scenery is absolutely breathtaking — the views of the Okanagan Valley from the trestle bridges are something you really have to see in person. Photos don’t do it justice.
I walked along part of the trail and was amazed at how well maintained it is. It’s wide, flat, and easy to navigate, so it’s perfect whether you’re biking or just taking a leisurely walk. The trestle bridges and tunnels are incredible to see up close, and there’s so much history behind them. I loved stopping to read the little info boards along the way — it gives you a sense of how much effort went into preserving this spot.
What I appreciated most is that you don’t need to be an extreme hiker to enjoy it. The trail is very family-friendly and you can go at your own pace, whether you want to do the full stretch or just a portion. The air feels so fresh up there, and it’s so peaceful — a nice escape from the busy city.
I’d recommend bringing some water, snacks, and of course your camera because you’ll want to capture those views. If you’re visiting Kelowna, this is definitely a must-do activity. It’s beautiful, relaxing, and has that perfect mix of nature and history. I’ll 100% be going back, maybe next time with a bike to cover more of the trail!"
Anurag Midha
"Great trail for walking or biking. We chose the walk. The trail itself is much longer and you can choose how far you want to walk/ride. It took us 16 km in less than 4 hours, including a stop for a snack. There are two toilets and two storm shelters along the route. The road goes through a gorge, bridges and through the forest. It is good to have sunscreen and a baseball cap on a sunny day.
Perfect flat trail for trip with children or pets"
Anna Cherniaieva
"Absolutely beautiful bike ride took us about 2 hours roundtrip. We parked at the Ruth station entrance to start at trestle 1. Lots of parking there since most people go to the other entrance however the drive up is quite something. Lots of sharp corners and gravel road not in the best condition but should be fine with most SUVs and pickups.
The trail is stunning and super easy on bikes since it's so flat. Right after trestle 18 you get a beautiful view of Kelowna."
Francis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Myra Canyon Trestles are located about a 30-minute drive from downtown Kelowna. The final stretch of the road is unpaved gravel and can be rough with sharp corners, so an SUV or truck is recommended. Parking is available at the trailhead.
No, the road leading to the Myra Canyon Trestles is primarily a gravel road, especially the final section. While some visitors have managed with regular cars, it's advisable to have a vehicle with higher clearance or 4WD for a smoother and safer journey.
The most common access point is via the Myra Forest Service Road. Many visitors start at the Myra Station trailhead. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for gravel roads before you set off.
Currently, there are no direct public transport options to the Myra Canyon Trestles. It is best to drive or arrange for a taxi or shuttle service if you do not have your own vehicle.
Given the gravel road, it's wise to have a spare tire and basic tools. Ensure your phone is charged for navigation, as cell service can be spotty.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Myra Canyon Trestles and the Kettle Valley Railway trail is completely free. You only pay if you choose to rent a bike.
The Myra Canyon Trestles are accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, the bike rental shop typically operates from May to October.
No advance booking is required as the trail is free to access. If you plan to rent bikes, it's a good idea to check with the rental company for their booking policies, especially during peak season.
The main restriction is related to fire bans during dry seasons. Always check local advisories before your visit. The trail is generally open to hikers and bikers.
While the trail is technically accessible in winter, it is often covered in snow and can be challenging to navigate without snowshoes or cross-country skis. The bike rental shop is closed during winter months.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Kettle Valley Railway trail through Myra Canyon is 24 km round trip. However, you can choose to walk or bike any portion of it, with many visitors turning back after reaching the first few trestles and tunnels.
Both are great options! Biking allows you to cover more ground and see more of the 18 trestles and 2 tunnels. Walking is more leisurely and allows for closer inspection of the historic structures and views. The trail is flat and wide, making it suitable for both.
Yes, there are restrooms and storm shelters located at intervals along the trail. Information boards detailing the history of the railway are also available.
Absolutely! The trail is wide, flat, and well-maintained, making it very family-friendly and suitable for strollers, young children, and pets.
You'll experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Okanagan Valley from the trestle bridges. The trail winds through a beautiful canyon, offering stunning natural scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Fall colors in September and October also provide stunning photographic opportunities, especially with the larches.
The trestle bridges themselves, especially with the canyon backdrop, are iconic. The tunnels also offer unique photographic perspectives. Look for viewpoints overlooking the Okanagan Valley.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty of Myra Canyon. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can capture more detail and dynamic range, especially in varying light conditions.
Experiment with different angles on the trestles. Capture the scale of the bridges against the vastness of the canyon. Consider wide-angle lenses to encompass the expansive views.
Fall is particularly popular for photography due to the vibrant larch colors and autumn foliage. Spring and summer offer lush greenery, while winter can provide a stark, snowy landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited services along the trail. Sun protection is also crucial, as there's not much shade. Consider renting bikes if your children are older and enjoy cycling, as it allows you to cover more ground and see more of the trestles.
🚴♀️ Cyclists
Be prepared for the drive up to the trailhead, as the gravel road can be challenging. The views from the trestles are spectacular, especially the panoramic vistas of the Okanagan Valley. Plan for at least a couple of hours to enjoy the ride and stop for photos.
🚶 Hikers
Bring sturdy walking shoes, water, and sun protection. The interpretive signs along the way add an educational element to your hike, detailing the construction and history of the railway. The fresh air and stunning canyon views make for a peaceful and invigorating outdoor activity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Kettle Valley Railway
The construction of the railway through the rugged Myra Canyon was a monumental task, involving extensive labor and innovative engineering for its time. The 18 trestle bridges and two tunnels stand as testaments to the challenges overcome. Today, the preserved section of the KVR trail offers a unique glimpse into this past, allowing visitors to experience the landscape as it was over a century ago.
Recent efforts have focused on preserving and maintaining these historic structures. For instance, the re-decking of the Myra Canyon Trestles was a significant project completed in 2023, ensuring their continued safety and accessibility for future generations. This dedication to preservation allows visitors to appreciate both the natural beauty and the historical significance of the site.
Biking vs. Walking the Trestles
Walking offers a more intimate experience, allowing you to pause frequently, read the interpretive signs, and truly soak in the breathtaking views of the Okanagan Valley. You can choose to walk just a portion of the trail, perhaps to the first few trestles and tunnels, making it a flexible option for all fitness levels. Many visitors find that walking a few kilometers out and back provides a fulfilling experience without requiring the full day commitment.
Regardless of your choice, the trail's wide, packed gravel surface is suitable for both activities. Consider your energy levels and how much of the expansive trail you wish to explore when making your decision. Both options provide an unforgettable journey through this historic and scenic landscape.
Experiencing Fall Colors at Myra Canyon
Visitors can witness a breathtaking panorama of yellows, oranges, and reds as the foliage changes. The contrast between the golden larches, the deep green of the evergreens, and the blue sky creates a visually stunning scene. This makes it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers seeking to capture the essence of autumn in the Okanagan.
To best enjoy the fall colors, plan your visit for September or early October. Remember that fall days can be crisp, so dress in layers. The drive up and the trail itself remain accessible, offering a unique way to experience the changing seasons.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit