Discovering Myra Canyon: A Scenic Bike Ride Through History

Nestled in the the slopes of the Okanagan Highlands of British Columbia, Myra Canyon offers one of the most amazing cycling experiences anywhere! This unique trail blends breathtaking scenery with rich history, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers and history buffs alike. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, exploring the Myra Canyon trestles is an unforgettable journey. Linda and I tackled the trial on one of our RV visits to the area and it was well worth the effort to get there.

Tunnels & Trestles

Where is Myra Canyon?

Myra Canyon is located about 24 kilometers southeast of Kelowna in British Columbia’s Okanagan region. The trail is part of the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, a decommissioned railway route that’s now a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Myra Canyon is particularly famous for its 18 historic mostly wooden trestle bridges and two hand-carved tunnels, winding their way through steep canyon walls and offering breathtaking views.

One of the two tunnels you will pass through

Getting There

To reach Myra Canyon, you can drive from Kelowna to either of the two main access points:
Myra Station Parking Lot (upper access point): About a 40-minute drive from downtown Kelowna. This route is ideal for those wanting to start with the most iconic trestles. Be warned you are driving a fair bit of the distance on gravel mountain roads with lots of turns and switch backs.
Ruth Station Parking Lot (lower access point): About 45 minutes from Kelowna. Starting here allows you to gradually ascend through the trail.
Both parking lots provide access to the trail, and you can choose to bike or walk. Bike rentals are available in Kelowna or vendors are also set up at the Myra Canyon parking lot as well.

A Ride Through History

The Myra Canyon section of the KVR was constructed in the early 1900s as part of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s expansion. This stretch was particularly challenging for engineers, as it required navigating the steep and rugged terrain of the canyon. The result was a series of 18 wooden trestles and two tunnels, an engineering marvel of its time.

However, the railway’s importance faded with time, and in 1973, it was officially abandoned. Recognizing its historical and recreational value, the Myra Canyon section was transformed into a multi-use trail, now protected as a National Historic Site of Canada.
The Forest Fires That Shaped the Canyon

One of 2 steel trestles

Nature has left its mark on Myra Canyon in dramatic ways. In 2003, the devastating Okanagan Mountain Park Fire tore through the region, destroying 12 of the historic wooden trestles and damaging others. The fire was one of the most destructive in British Columbia’s history, burning over 25,000 hectares of land.

The loss was deeply felt by the local community and outdoor enthusiasts, but it also sparked a monumental restoration effort. Over the next five years, a dedicated team rebuilt the trestles, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern materials to ensure longevity. Today, visitors can enjoy the restored trestles, a testament to the resilience and passion of those who worked to preserve this historic treasure.

You can clearly see how the trail winds up through the canyon

What to Expect on the Trail

The Myra Canyon trail is approximately 12 kilometers one way, making it a manageable 24-kilometer round trip. Being a old rail line, the route is relatively flat with a gentle gradient that’s accessible to riders of all skill levels.

Along the way you’ll encounter:

•  16 Wooden Trestles & 2 steel trestles: Each trestle offers a unique perspective of the canyon and stunning photo opportunities.
• Two Tunnels: These dark, cool tunnels are perfect for a brief escape from the sun.
• Panoramic Views: Sweeping vistas of the canyon and the surrounding Okanagan Valley are around every turn.
• Natural history signs and commemorative plaques:
• Other historical artifacts: These include things like old rock ovens which were used by railway construction workers to bake bread and other food during the building of the Kettle Valley Railway
  

  Stone Oven

Wildlife you may encounter include:

• Deer: Both mule deer and white-tailed deer are common and can often be spotted grazing in open areas.
• Black Bears: Occasionally seen, especially in late summer and fall when they forage for berries and other food.
• Coyotes: These canines are present but typically shy and active at dawn or dusk.
• Squirrels, Chipmunks & Pica : Often seen darting around the trees or across the trail and will definitely join you for some snacks when you stop.
• Cougars: Rarely spotted but present in the region. They tend to avoid human activity.
• Birds – A wide variety of birds may be seen from red tailed hawks and bald eagles, turkey vultures, pileated wood peckers, Mountain bluebirds, warblers, chickadeesa, Stellar’s jays and Clark’s nutcrackers to name just a few.

Don’t forget to pack water, snacks, and sunscreen, as there are no amenities along the trail.

Chipmonk sharing some snacks

Pica – look for them in the rock cuts along the way

Tips for Your Visit

Seasonal Access: The trail is best enjoyed from late spring to early fall. Snow can linger in the area well into May.
Safety First: Helmets are highly recommended, and, while not absolutely necessary you may want a flashlight or some kind of light for the tunnels!
Take Your Time: The trail’s beauty is in the journey. Plan for plenty of stops to soak in the views and get some great photos. Unfortunately, drones are not permitted.
Guided Tours: Local tour operators offer guided rides that include historical insights and also supply bikes.

Trestle’s 4,5 & 6 in the distance

Why Myra Canyon Should Be on Your List

Myra Canyon isn’t just a bike trail—it’s a journey through history, a celebration of nature’s beauty and a testament to human ingenuity. Whether you’re pedaling across the trestles, marveling at the canyon walls, or reflecting on its rich history, Myra Canyon is sure to leave a lasting impression on you!
So, grab your bike, pack your sense of adventure and head to Myra Canyon. It’s a ride you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Spectacnular views along the way

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