Vernon, British Columbia in the Okanagan Valley

Vernon is located within the Okanagan Valley about 450 kilometres from Vancouver, BC. It is the largest city in BC's North Okanagan Regional District. In the last ten years it has undergone tremendous growth and has all the necessary amenities of a city.

Vernon is a popular destination both in the summer and the winter. In the summer's Vernon enjoys warm and hot days with temperatures that can go as high as 30 Celsius. Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake are the summertime hotspots. They both have beaches and are occupied with people throughout the summer.

Okanagan Lake is well-known for the Ogopogo myth. Ogopogo is said to be the monster living in the waters of the lake. There have been many claims of sightings, and each year there are more, but no proof as of yet. Ogopogo is said to have a horse-like head and a snake/serpent like body. Ogopogo is supported by an Indian Legend that has now turned into a myth that continues to this day. You will see Ogopogo figurines and memorabilia in all tourist shops around the area.

If you are interested in water sports Kin Beach on Okanagan Lake has a popular company that provides water sport services from water skiing and wake boating to tubing. They also rent out other popular water devices for use.

Winter can also be a popular time in the Vernon area. Snow is abundant at Silver Star Mountain Resort, which is a 45 minute drive from the city centre. Silver Star has also experienced tremendous growth in recent years and boasts a boutique style village with multiple accommodation options, restaurants, and pubs.

There are six chairlifts with two as Quads, one as a six-pack, and one as a double. There is also a T-Bar and three magic carpets. In addition are two tube lifts for those wanting to experience something other than skiing or snowboarding. The Resort even operates night skiing from 3:30pm-8:00pm Thursday to Saturday. Daytime hours of operation are 8:30am - 3:30pm. There are 115 marked downhill runs. Cross Country Skiing is another available option at the resort with 37 miles of trails.

If you are looking for some shopping the Village Green Mall is available with a limited number of stores. However, if you are looking for some serious shopping Kelowna is only a 40 minute drive and Orchard Park Mall hosts many stores and options that can keep you entertained for hours.

There are a couple of different places for hiking such as Ellison Provincial Park and Kalamalka Provincial Park. Both have well-marked trails and beautiful views of their respective area. Fishing is also a hobby of many within the region, but it's important to check the regulations at the time.

Vernon is a popular destination for families and as it continues to grow I am sure more people will begin heading to this lovely part of the country. If you have the opportunity or are an avid outdoors person take advantage of this beautiful spot.