Rose Valley Regional Park
The trail network is extensive, with some steep climbs for those wanting a tough challenge, a few gentle trails that cross the hillside, and many trails for the modestly fit.
Rose Valley Regional Park is something of a miracle, and another example of caring people in the Okanagan Valley having the foresight to protect a very special area.
This is a huge, forested park. It stretches along one of the slopes of Mt Hayman, and overlooks the Rose Valley Reservoir as well as Lake Okanagan, the bridge, the lower reaches of native lands, West Kelowna Estates and the City of Kelowna.
What you’ll find:
This is a natural area, with an entire network of trails. Many are shaded by mature timber, mostly Ponderosa Pine, so this is a good place to come even in warm weather.
The higher rocky knolls are often pleasantly breezy, and some have areas with soft grasses in small plateau areas where you could sit on your packsack and enjoy a little picnic or water break while surveying the great views of the reservoir on one side, or Okanagan Lake on the other, and some interesting geological features created by both glacier and volcanic activity.
The trail network is extensive, with some steep climbs for those wanting a tough challenge, a few gentle trails that cross the hillside, and many trails for the modestly fit. Did we mention the panorama views?
Naturalists love this park for its many birdwatching opportunities and the wildflowers.
For a quick visit that you can do with little children or folks who can’t walk very far, the small pond near Westlake Road in the lower east section of the park is a delightful spot, with some species found in few other Okanagan Valley locations as residents. Watch for the striking Yellow-headed Blackbird and some handsome waterfowl such as Canvasbacks, Ruddy ducks and Coots.
There are no washrooms here- Rose Valley Regional Park is another Supernatural area, where we urge you to Leave No Trace- keep your dog on the leash, and tidy up anything you or your dog have dropped. No motor vehicles are permitted, and absolutely no fires or camping. See note on the recent fire in this park!
A 25-hectare area burned during August 2005 forest fire remains closed, while all other parts of the park are open. Please observe posted signs and stay out of fire damaged area which contains hazard trees, burned root holes (sometimes called Dragon’s Footprints) and unstable ground.
How to get there:
Grab a map or ask how to find Rose Valley Elementary School, and you’ll be close to the main trailhead!
Rose Valley Park can be informally accessed from several trailheads near or in residential subdivisions, such as through the Rose Valley Estates along a private road at the end of Rosewood or off West Kelowna Road, but the main access is from the trailhead on Westlake Road, near Rose Valley Pond and the local fire hall. There is space for parking a few vehicles at a time, and a plastic bag dispenser in case you forgot your own to tidy up after your dog.
Up, up you go!
What to bring:
Unless you’re simply walking along the paths around the pond, you need good footwear for the upper trails in this park. Though the animal residents –other than quail- aren’t as likely to be seen here as they might be on the Telemark Trails or in Glen Canyon Regional Park, it’s a good idea to visit our “Creatures” page regarding the wild residents of our area.
Cautions:
The upper areas of Rose Valley Park aren’t recommended for people with low energy or young and impetuous children. There are some long uphill climbs and steep areas.
See our Glen Canyon “What to Bring List” for advice re clothing, footwear, etc.
Due to the rocky knolls, Deborah recommends a walking pole, or two, if you have delicate knees. Watch your time- this is another very large park.
PLEASE DON’T LET YOUR DOG SWIM IN THE RESERVOIR- this is a watershed area.
Disclaimer: Please remember to hike safe. Consider your level of fitness, the terrain, the weather, the wildlife, and the expertise/age of those you are hiking with. Since conditions of trails change over time, we do not guarantee the accuracy of our information. Hike at your own risk.
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