The Regional District of North Okanagan is thrilled to announce completion of the newly established Coldstream Ranchlands Trail network into the Greater Vernon Trails and Natural Spaces service.
Located on the traditional territory of the Secwepemc First Nations and Sylix Okanagan People, the Coldstream Ranchlands property is a 126 hectare natural space that now offers a 6.3km multi-use loop trail around its perimeter. The west side of this loop doubles as a purpose-built mountain bike climbing trail to access crown lands set to be the future home of the multi-use Vernon Hill trail network. An additional 1km of trail was constructed to connect the Coldstream Ranchlands with the Grey Canal Trail.
"We are excited to see the Coldstream Ranchlands Trail officially open to the public, offering residents and visitors a beautiful and accessible outdoor space to explore," said Bob Fleming, Greater Vernon Advisory Committee Chair and Director for RDNO Electoral Area B. "This trail network not only enhances recreational opportunities in our region but also respects the ecological and agricultural significance of the land. We look forward to seeing the community enjoy this natural space while ensuring its preservation for the future."
The Coldstream Ranchlands Trails were designed to avoid areas of high agricultural and ecological value. This resulted in a user-friendly climb trail for hikers, bikers, and trail runners along the western edge of the property. On the east side, a more challenging ascent or descent awaits, with rocky slopes above a ravine, providing a scenic and adventurous route. The central portion of the property, designated as part of the Agricultural Land Reserve, remains undeveloped and is home to a rich diversity of wildlife. To protect this sensitive ecosystem, users are asked to stay on the designated trails.
Parking is available on Ravine Drive, and the RDNO reminds visitors that the access road between the parking lot and trail is public non-motorized use only.
For more information on trails and natural spaces in the area please visit www.rdno.ca/trailsandnaturalspaces.
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For media inquiries:
Stacey Raftus, Communications Officer
communications@rdno.ca
The attached ribbon cutting photo includes (from left to right): Cam Sorensen (Contour Trails), Mayor Victor Cumming (GVAC), Brian Guy (GVAC), Bob Fleming (GVAC Chair), Julie Melanson (NOCS), Jeff Wyshynski (NOCS), Amanda Shatzko (GVAC), Richard Stranks (Ribbons of Green)
