The Okanagan Rail Trail close to full completion

Another important step has been taken towards a fully completed world class cycle trail connecting over 50 kilometres between Kelowna and Coldstream, near Vernon.

The new 3.2 km section of the Okanagan Rail Trail through City-owned land between Old Vernon Road near Kelowna International Airport , and the Lake Country boundary was celebrated Wednesday.

That leaves just one unfinished section, the 2.6 km length on the east side of Ellison Lake which is slowly moving through a federal government process with CN Rail and Okanagan Indian Band.

The incomplete section has clear signage and users are advised to use caution should they continue in these areas. In the District of Lake Country, a 500m section north of Beaver Lake Road has been improved, including a new crossing light.

The improved section from near the airport northwards offers a safer alternative to travelling alongside Highway 97 while improving regional connectivity between Kelowna and Lake Country.

Work has also been completed on the paved Rail Trail section adjacent to Airport Way. This section next to Airport Way provides a consistent style of cycling trail for users. The existing pathways for pedestrians and cyclists along Airport Way will be maintained.

Also, the plan is for the City of Kelowna and District of Lake Country to pave the new 3.2 km section in the future.

The Okanagan Rail Trail is supported by all levels of government, as well as the many community donors and volunteers – Friends of the Rail Trail (FORT) whose collective contributions were instrumental in making the Okanagan Rail Trail a reality.