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Various dignitaries and volunteers were on hand for the ribbon-cutting of the new section of the rail trail including Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas (centre), flanked by Lake Country Mayor Blair Ireland (left) and Kelowna MP Stephen Fuhr (right). (Image Credit: City of Kelowna)
By Vernon Matters staff
safer, better cycle route

Penultimate section of Okanagan Rail Trail celebrated

Aug 5, 2026 | 6:00 PM

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

The new 3.2km 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 plus-2km 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 section marked by red dots is the last remaining unfinished section of the plus-50km Okanagan Rail Trail between Kelowna and Vernon. However, officials are confident that will be resolved soon.
The section marked by red dots is the last remaining unfinished section of the plus-50km Okanagan Rail Trail between Kelowna and Vernon. However, officials are confident that will be resolved soon. (Image Credit: Okanaganrailtrail.ca)
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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.

by Vernon Matters staff
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