Shannon Lake Regional Park
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Shannon Lake Regional Park

4.6
·275 reviews·West Kelowna, Canada

A serene walk-in park with accessible trails, fishing, and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape in West Kelowna.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Shannon Lake Regional Park

Shannon Lake Regional Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene walk-in park with accessible trails, fishing, and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape in West Kelowna.

4.6
(275 reviews)

"A peaceful place to spend an afternoon, offering nostalgia and natural beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk-in Access Only

Remember, no vehicles are allowed inside the park. Plan to carry your gear to your desired spot.

🎣 Stocked for Fishing Fun

Shannon Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a great spot for anglers of all levels.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shannon Lake Loop Trail

Shannon Lake Loop Trail

Around Shannon Lake

Enjoy a scenic stroll with diverse terrain, offering beautiful lake views and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Painted Turtle Trail

Painted Turtle Trail

Lakeside

An accessible, paved path perfect for strollers and wheelchairs, leading to the fishing area.

Fishing Opportunities

Fishing Opportunities

Shannon Lake

Stocked with rainbow trout, this lake is a popular spot for beginner and experienced anglers alike.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

While Shannon Lake Regional Park offers year-round beauty, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light for photos and a more peaceful experience, especially during warmer months.

Park Access and Amenities

Shannon Lake Regional Park is a 'walk-in only' park, meaning no vehicles are allowed inside. Plan your visit accordingly, as you'll need to carry any gear. Restrooms are available, and some trails are paved for accessibility.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Ice skating and pond hockey
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

my heart hurts
@2loveableidiots
93.3K likes • 1.7M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk-in Access Only

Remember, no vehicles are allowed inside the park. Plan to carry your gear to your desired spot. Reddit

🎣 Stocked for Fishing Fun

Shannon Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a great spot for anglers of all levels. InstagramReddit

:3 #ogopogo #nhaaitk #kelowna #kelownabc #okanaganlake
@pincooshin
19.8K likes • 619.3K views
Shannon Lake Regional Park Tourism Kelowna #britishcolumbia #westkelowna
migsuy
1 likes • 83 views

♿ Accessible Trails Available

The Painted Turtle Trail is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering easy lake access. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a perfect spot for a dog walk with scenic views. Reddit

Amazing video from @gofishbc 🐟 🐠 Up, up, and away! These rainbow trout are on their way to Shannon Lake in Kelowna. This is an accessible and beginner-friendly spot, perfect for introducing the kids to some fun fall fishing from shore. Enjoy some fall fishing at Shannon Lake Regional Park this October! #rdcoparks
regionalparks
34 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk-in Access Only

Remember, no vehicles are allowed inside the park. Plan to carry your gear to your desired spot. Reddit

🎣 Stocked for Fishing Fun

Shannon Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a great spot for anglers of all levels. InstagramReddit

♿ Accessible Trails Available

The Painted Turtle Trail is paved and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, offering easy lake access. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a perfect spot for a dog walk with scenic views. Reddit

🛶 Canoeing & Kayaking

Enjoy paddling on the lake during warmer months for a different perspective of the park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(275 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Shannon Lake Regional Park is a beloved local spot offering a peaceful escape with accessible trails and good fishing opportunities. While the inability to complete a full lake loop is a minor drawback, visitors appreciate its well-maintained paths, natural beauty, and tranquil atmosphere, making it a great destination for families and casual outdoor enthusiasts.

"Nice short walk around half the lake. The painted turtle trail is entirely paved from the parking lot to the fishing area, so it’s accessible for people with wheelchairs or strollers. The eagle trail is not paved but it is a dirt trail. Doing the whole trail was maybe ~2km."

FB

"I'm a little bias because this is the lake I grew up around. First visited in 93' when I was in elementary and I'm so glad it hasn't changed much since. I've visited countless times and always get a sense of nostalgia when I walk through this park. Winter is great for skating, pond hockey and ice fishing. Other seasons are great for a short stroll, dog walk or canoeing. It really is an amazingly peaceful place to spend an afternoon."

Chris Chung (tamahome27)

"Nice park, well maintained, but it's very unfortunate that you can't make a full loop around the lake as the trail ends abruptly before the golf course"

Наталья Кошик

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Accessible trails
Good fishing

What People Dislike

Cannot complete full loop

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shannon Lake Regional Park is a walk-in only park. There is a parking lot available, but you will need to carry your belongings into the park. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot available, but it is for walk-in access only. Vehicles are not permitted inside the park itself. Reddit

No, Shannon Lake Regional Park is a walk-in only park. You will need to park your vehicle and walk to the lake. Reddit

Shannon Lake Regional Park is located in West Kelowna, British Columbia, close to the city of Kelowna. Instagram+1

Information on public transport routes to the park's vicinity can be found on local transit websites. It's advisable to check schedules in advance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Shannon Lake Regional Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty for free! Reddit

As a regional park, it is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Regional Parks website for any specific seasonal hours or closures. Reddit

Yes, a valid freshwater fishing license is required to fish in Shannon Lake, as it is stocked with rainbow trout. Instagram

While there are picnic areas, they are generally first-come, first-served. There are no reservations typically required or available for picnic spots. Reddit

For general visits, there are usually no strict restrictions. However, for larger organized events, it's best to contact the Regional Parks department in advance. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The park offers a mix of trails, including the paved Painted Turtle Trail (accessible for wheelchairs and strollers) and the unpaved Eagle Trail, providing about 2km of walking. Reddit

Unfortunately, you cannot complete a full loop around the lake as the trail ends before the golf course. The accessible loop covers about half the lake. Reddit

Visitors often spot painted turtles, various bird species, and potentially other local fauna. Keep an eye out during your walk! Reddit

Yes, the lake and surrounding natural habitat make it a good spot for birdwatching, with various waterfowl and other bird species present. Reddit

Yes, restrooms are available within Shannon Lake Regional Park for visitor convenience. Reddit

🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining

No, there are no restaurants or cafes within Shannon Lake Regional Park. It's a natural park setting, so it's best to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

Absolutely! There are picnic areas available, and it's a popular spot for a relaxed outdoor meal. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

Shannon Lake is stocked with rainbow trout. Some reviews also mention the possibility of bass and perch. InstagramReddit

While the lake is stocked, success can vary. Some visitors report good catches, while others suggest a boat might increase chances. It's a great spot for beginners to try. Reddit

You'll need to visit a bait and tackle shop in West Kelowna or Kelowna for fishing supplies. There are no shops directly within the park. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The lake itself offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The surrounding trees and trails provide lovely natural scenery. Instagram+1

Yes, the tranquil lake, surrounding greenery, and potential for wildlife sightings make it a picturesque location for landscape photography. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Instagram

Drone usage in regional parks is often restricted. It's crucial to check the specific bylaws and regulations of the Regional District of the Central Okanagan before flying a drone. Reddit

The viewpoints along the walking trails offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape are particularly popular for photos. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shannon Lake Regional Park is a fantastic spot for families. The Painted Turtle Trail is paved and accessible, making it perfect for strollers and little legs that tire easily. Reddit It's an ideal location for a gentle walk, spotting turtles, and enjoying the open space. The lake's stocking with rainbow trout also makes it a great place to introduce children to fishing in a low-pressure, beginner-friendly environment. InstagramReddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas, and let the kids explore the natural surroundings. The 'walk-in only' policy means fewer cars and a safer environment for children to roam within the park's boundaries. Reddit It’s a wonderful place for a relaxed family outing, offering a blend of gentle activity and natural discovery.

🎣 Anglers on a Budget

For budget-conscious anglers, Shannon Lake Regional Park is an excellent choice. The park itself is free to enter, and the primary cost will be your fishing license and bait. Reddit Since the lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, your chances of a successful catch are good, offering great value for your time and minimal expense. InstagramReddit

While you can fish from the shore, consider investing in a small, portable float tube or a very lightweight canoe if you want to maximize your fishing opportunities without the cost of a larger boat rental. Reddit It’s a perfect spot for a day of affordable recreation, combining the thrill of fishing with the beauty of a natural park setting.

🚶‍♀️ Casual Walkers & Dog Owners

Shannon Lake Regional Park is ideal for those seeking a leisurely walk or a pleasant outing with their canine companions. The paved Painted Turtle Trail offers a smooth, easy surface for a relaxed stroll, while the Eagle Trail provides a slightly more rugged, natural path. Reddit Both are perfect for enjoying the lake views and fresh air. Instagram

As a 'walk-in only' park, it offers a peaceful environment for dogs to enjoy on leash, away from the distractions of vehicle traffic. Reddit It’s a great place to get some light exercise, enjoy the scenery, and let your dog stretch its legs in a beautiful natural setting. Remember to always clean up after your pet.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Fishing at Shannon Lake

Shannon Lake Regional Park is a popular destination for anglers, particularly those looking for a beginner-friendly fishing experience. The lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout, making it a reliable spot for catching fish. Visitors can fish from the shore, especially along the accessible Painted Turtle Trail. InstagramReddit

While many enjoy the ease of shore fishing, some experienced anglers suggest that using a small boat or float tube might offer better access to deeper parts of the lake, potentially increasing catch rates. Reddit Remember to obtain a valid freshwater fishing license before casting your line, as it is a requirement for fishing in British Columbia. The park offers a peaceful environment to enjoy the sport, with the added bonus of beautiful natural surroundings. Instagram

Beyond rainbow trout, some reviews mention the possibility of catching bass and perch, adding to the variety of fishing opportunities. Whether you're introducing kids to fishing or seeking a relaxing afternoon by the water, Shannon Lake provides a welcoming setting. Reddit

Exploring the Trails

Shannon Lake Regional Park features a network of trails catering to different accessibility needs and fitness levels. The Painted Turtle Trail is a standout feature, being entirely paved and wheelchair/stroller accessible. This trail provides a smooth and easy path along the lake's edge, leading to the fishing areas and offering pleasant views. Reddit

For those seeking a bit more of a natural hiking experience, the Eagle Trail offers an unpaved, dirt path. While it's not as accessible as the paved trail, it provides a more rustic feel and allows for exploration of different parts of the park. The combined trail system offers a walk of approximately 2 kilometers, providing a good opportunity for a moderate stroll. Reddit

It's important to note that a full loop around the lake is not possible due to the park's layout and proximity to the golf course. However, the existing trails still offer ample scenic beauty and a chance to connect with nature. Reddit The 'walk-in only' policy ensures a more tranquil atmosphere, free from vehicle traffic within the park's core areas. Reddit

A Peaceful Urban Escape

Shannon Lake Regional Park is cherished by locals as a peaceful urban escape. Despite being close to residential areas and amenities, the park maintains a serene ambiance, making it a go-to spot for a relaxing afternoon. Reddit Visitors often describe a sense of nostalgia and tranquility, especially those who grew up visiting the park. Reddit

The park's 'walk-in only' access contributes significantly to its peaceful character, limiting the number of visitors and reducing noise pollution. Reddit Whether you're looking for a short stroll, a dog walk, or simply a quiet place to sit and enjoy nature, Shannon Lake delivers. Reddit Its well-maintained paths and natural beauty offer a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Reddit

During winter, the lake transforms into a frozen playground, offering opportunities for ice skating and pond hockey, adding another dimension to its year-round appeal. Reddit This versatility makes Shannon Lake Regional Park a valuable community asset, providing diverse recreational opportunities in a beautiful natural setting. Instagram

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