From left to right: Greater Vernon Advisory Committee (GVAC) members, Victor Cumming and Brian Guy, GVAC Chair Bob Fleming, Harold Sellers, president of North Okanagan Naturalists Club, Chris Crawford, president of North Okanagan Cycling Society, Richard Stranks. president, Ribbons Of Green Trails Society, Sean Mulvey, Cabin Operations, Ryan Elphick, BC Parks Area Supervisor North Okanagan, Ian McLellan, Rec Sites & Trails BC. (RDNO photo)

By Pete McIntyre

RDNO

Grand opening held for new Greater Vernon trail

Jun 19, 2024 | 11:30 AM

Residents and visitors have a new nature trail to enjoy in Greater Vernon.

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) has announced the grand opening of the Upper BX Creek Trail, which extends the existing trail network 4.9 kilometres from Sovereign Lake Road to Forsberg Road in the Silver Star Road area.

“We are thrilled to offer this enhanced trail to our community and visitors,” Bob Fleming, chair of the RDNO’s Greater Vernon Advisory Committee, said.

“The Upper BX Creek Trail moves us one step closer to the dream of having the trail run the length of BX Creek from Silver Star to Swan Lake.”

The RDNO said the project has revitalized portions of the historic Spanky’s mountain bike trail while introducing a new scenic lower section.

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“With a total elevation change of approximately 540 meters, the Upper BX Creek Trail promises a physically challenging experience for advanced mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners,” Stacey Raftus, RDNO communications officer, said.

“Due to its demanding nature and limited cell service, this remote trail requires users to be well-prepared.”

Trail users can park at the upper trailhead off Silver Star Road, with an additional parking lot planned for construction on Forsberg Road, subject to funding approvals.

The new trail was completed under its $700,000 budget, which included grant funding of $370,000 from the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF), a federal program administered in British Columbia by the Union of BC Municipalities.

RDNO Electoral Areas B and C equally distributed the CCBF grant through their portion of Community Works Fund allocations.

The RDNO is thanking its partners: BC Parks, Rec Sites and Trails BC, the North Okanagan Cycling Society, and the Ribbons of Green Trail Society for their efforts and advocacy on this project.

Users are reminded to be considerate of each other and practice trail etiquette while out on the trail.

To learn more RDNO parks, trails, and natural spaces visit www.rdno.ca.