The most scenic road in North America: 200 km of alpine lakes, mountains and wineries

This 200-kilometer road is considered one of the most scenic in North America. Along it are alpine lakes, small towns, and more than 180 wineries, writes Travel & Leisure.

The western Canadian province of British Columbia is most often associated with mountains and a rugged coastline laced with rainforests, but its interior is no less remarkable—most notably the Okanagan Valley.

It connects several small towns that grew up around Okanagan Lake and Highway 97, North America's longest continuous north-south highway. It's over 3000 kilometers long, stretching from northern California to the British Columbia-Yukon border. A 200-kilometer stretch, known as the Okanagan Scenic Highway, runs from Osoyoos near the U.S. border north to Enderby and is considered one of Canada's best road trips.

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The valley is located within the territories of three indigenous peoples—the Syilx, Secwepemc, and Nlaka'pamux. It features high mountains, arid, steppe-like landscapes, and tranquil lakes. It is one of the most developed wine regions in the country.

Activities along the route cater to every taste. Kelowna, the valley's largest metropolitan area, was the first Canadian metropolitan area to be designated a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. The region boasts over 180 wineries, and exploring them can take a full week. Active travelers can enjoy rock climbing, hiking, river rafting, and swimming. Penticton is home to the Kettle Valley Rail Trail—a former railway converted into a network of bike paths totaling approximately 500 kilometers.

Here's what you need to know before driving North America's most scenic road.

Wine tastings and routes

The Okanagan is British Columbia's premier wine region, home to over 180 wineries. It produces rich reds, fresh whites, and sparkling wines. You can dedicate an entire trip to tastings. Notable spots include Poplar Grove, one of the first five wineries on the Naramata Plateau, known for its vibrant, fruity wines; Summerhill Pyramid Winery in Kelowna, one of the region's first certified organic wineries, boasting spectacular views; and Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards, which specializes in sparkling wines. Guided tours are available—Okanagan Wine Country Tours, Vivid Tours, Sagebrush Tours—as well as self-guided tours with audio guides in a car or on a bike. Wine festivals are held here in the spring and fall.

Introduction to indigenous culture

For those interested in learning more about the valley's indigenous peoples, several options are available. The Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre explains the region's natural environment and the community life of the Osoyoos Indian Band, and also organizes trips to Spotted Lake, a site considered healing and sacred for centuries. Nearby is Nk'Mip Cellars, North America's first indigenous-owned winery. Moccasin Trails offers tours introducing the Syilx people to culture, and Studio Sísp̓l̓k̓ organizes walks featuring traditional foraging practices. In June, the Komasket Powwow festival takes place, featuring drummers, dancers, and artisans.

Outdoor activity

The Okanagan is a great option for nature lovers. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail passes lakes, vineyards, and canyons—bike rentals are available in Penticton. Skaha Bluffs Park is considered one of the best rock climbing spots in the country. SilverStar and Big White resorts offer mountain biking and hiking trails in the summer, and ski slopes in the winter. Apex Mountain Resort in the south of the valley also operates in the winter.

The region boasts numerous golf courses, including Shadow Ridge in Kelowna and the Ridge Course at Predator Ridge Resort in Vernon. For a more relaxing experience, you can paddleboard along the Penticton Canal, which connects Okanagan and Skaha Lakes. Coyote Cruises provides equipment and provides transportation back to the city. Along the canal, there are numerous beaches, from the white sands of Manitou Park in Naramata to Sun-Oka Beach Park, where you can kayak, canoe, and fish.

Local kitchen

You can explore the region's culinary scene on A Taste of Kelowna Food Tours or on your own, such as the Downtown Adventure Flavor Trail in Penticton, which features eateries featuring locally sourced ingredients. In Naramata, check out Joie Farm's Hot Dog Lounge, featuring artisanal hot dogs and wine, and Just Baked Nine Mile, which serves appetizers, baked goods, and rosé. In Vernon, farms offering pick-your-own service are open from late June through October: Peter's Orchard grows cherries and peaches, while Ringo-En Orchards produces apples, tomatoes, and peppers.

How to plan a trip

The stretch of Highway 97 through the Okanagan Valley—from Osoyoos to Enderby—is over 200 kilometers long, but due to the variety of routes and activities, it's best to allow three to four days for the trip. The easiest way to get there is by plane to Kelowna International Airport, which is located approximately halfway along the route. Another option is to drive through Washington state and begin your journey immediately after crossing the border. You can choose one city as a base or split the route over several days.

When to go

The Okanagan is a year-round destination with a mild climate. Summers are long and autumns are warm, offering more opportunities for outdoor recreation. More hotels and restaurants are open from May to November, while some close in winter. Summer offers water sports on the lakes, and autumn is the best time to visit wineries, farmers markets, and harvest. Winter is the ski season for resorts, including SilverStar and Big White.

Where to stay, eat and drink

Osoyus

Osoyoos Lake is located in the south of the valley. Technically, it's not a desert, but its hot, dry climate and distinctive vegetation often make it one. It's a center of indigenous culture. Spirit Ridge Resort, overlooking Osoyoos Lake, offers comfortable accommodations and is located near the Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre and Nk'Mip Cellars. Coffee can be had at Joycraft Roasters or Barn Owl Eatery & Café, and for dinner, try The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry, featuring locally sourced dishes and traditional indigenous cuisine.

Penticton

Situated between two lakes, the town is ideal for swimming, cycling, and rock climbing. More than 80 wineries, craft breweries, and cideries operate in the surrounding area. Kettle Valley Beach Resort is located on Lake Okanagan. A farmers' market is held downtown on Saturdays, and Petrasek Artisan Bakery is worth a visit for baked goods. Elma Restaurant serves hearty breakfasts and offers vegetarian and vegan options. In neighboring Naramata, Lapin Perdu Bistro at the Naramata Inn combines French cuisine with local wines.

Kelowna

The region's largest city offers the widest selection of hotels, from the historic Hotel Eldorado on the waterfront to the modern Hotel Zed. Breakfast and coffee are available at Bright Jenny Coffee Roasters. For work, The Office Brewery is a great place to visit, serving beer, cocktails, and tasting menus. Dinner can be enjoyed at Kin & Folk or The Old Vines restaurant at Quails' Gate Winery. Choose a table on the terrace overlooking the vineyards.

Vernon

Vernon is known as the trail capital of British Columbia, boasting hundreds of kilometers of hiking and biking trails. Predator Ridge Resort boasts two 18-hole golf courses. For a longer getaway, Outback Lakeside on the shores of Okanagan Lake is ideal. Eatology serves hearty breakfasts, while lunch is available at Cambium Cider Co., where you can enjoy chicken sandwiches and wood-fired pizza. For a more formal dinner, Block One Restaurant, with its terrace and valley views, is a great choice.

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