Myra Canyon – A Thrilling Bike Riding Date Overlooking Kelowna

Looking for a date idea that perfectly blends outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and local history? Biking the historic Myra Canyon trestles is one of the most memorable day trips you can take in the Okanagan. Winding along a steep-walled canyon high above Kelowna, this spectacular section of the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) offers a romantic, breezy ride with panoramic views that are guaranteed to spark conversation.

Here is everything you need to know to plan the perfect active date at Myra Canyon.

How to Get There: The Drive from Kelowna

Myra Canyon is located about 40 minutes southeast of downtown Kelowna.

1. From downtown Kelowna, head east on K.L.O. Road.
2. Follow K.L.O. Road to the “Y” junction and veer right onto McCulloch Road (following signs for Gallagher’s Canyon Golf Course).
3. Continue past the golf course. The road will narrow and wind downhill over K.L.O. Creek.
4. Just past where the high-voltage power lines cross the road, turn right onto Myra Forest Service Road. You will see a large sign for bike rentals at the turn-off.
5. Follow this gravel forest road for about 8 km (5 miles).
6. Turn right immediately after the cattle guard to enter the Myra Station parking lot.

The Road Conditions

While Myra Forest Service Road is unpaved, it is a well-traveled gravel road. It does have washboard sections and minor potholes, so you will want to take it slow. However, it is fully accessible for standard city cars and minivans—no 4×4 or high-clearance vehicle is required.

The Gear: What Kind of Bike Do You Need?

Because the trail is made of packed gravel and dirt, hybrid bikes, gravel bikes, or mountain bikes with wider, textured tires are highly recommended.

• Can you ride road bikes? It is best to avoid them. Skinny, slick road tires will slip on the gravel and make the ride feel unstable.
• Forgot your gear? No problem. If you don’t own suitable bikes, you can easily rent comfort hybrids or e-bikes right at the trailhead from Myra Canyon Bicycle Rental (open seasonally at Myra Station).

The Ride: Pure Cruising, Zero Sweat

If you are worried about huffing and puffing on a first date, don’t be. This ride is exceptionally easy and almost completely flat. Because it was built for steam trains in the early 20th century, the trail maintains a gentle, near-0% grade.

The classic route from Myra Station to Ruth Station is a 24 km (15-mile) round trip. It takes most couples about 2 to 3 hours to complete at a leisurely, chatty pace. If you want a shorter date, you can turn around at the midway point (Trestle #6) and still see the best views.

The Highlights: Trestles and Tunnels

The engineering of Myra Canyon is nothing short of breathtaking. Over the course of the full ride, you and your date will cross 18 historic wooden trestle bridges and pedal through two massive tunnels blasted straight out of the solid rock cliffs.

The first half of the ride from Myra Station is the most dramatic. Within the first few kilometers, you will find yourself suspended high in the air, looking down at the sweeping Okanagan Valley and Lake Okanagan in the distance. Keep an eye out for Trestle #6—at 55 meters (180 feet) high, it is the tallest and most spectacular bridge on the line, making it the perfect spot to stop, snap a photo together, and share a picnic lunch