Glen Canyon Regional Park
A natural oasis with challenging stair climbs and scenic waterfall views, perfect for a refreshing hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Glen Canyon Regional Park
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural oasis with challenging stair climbs and scenic waterfall views, perfect for a refreshing hike.
"Great hiking trail. So lovely to be in nature so close to the city."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of stairs and uneven paths! Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This park is home to bears, especially during salmon spawning. Carry bear spray and make noise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Powers Creek Waterfall
End of the main trail
A beautiful cascade tucked away, offering a serene reward after a hike through the forest.
The Staircase Challenge
Various points in the park
Test your stamina on numerous staircases that wind through the canyon, providing a unique workout.
Salmon Spawning Creek
Powers Creek
Witness nature's cycle as salmon navigate the creek, a fascinating sight during the spawning season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stairs!
Respect Wildlife & Waterways
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of stairs and uneven paths! Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This park is home to bears, especially during salmon spawning. Carry bear spray and make noise.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, bring plenty of water as trails can be warm and challenging.
🐶 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash, and are not allowed in the creek during salmon spawning.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Lots of stairs and uneven paths! Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This park is home to bears, especially during salmon spawning. Carry bear spray and make noise.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially in summer, bring plenty of water as trails can be warm and challenging.
🐶 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash, and are not allowed in the creek during salmon spawning.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning forest scenes, creek views, and the impressive waterfall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Glen Canyon Regional Park for its beautiful natural scenery, diverse trails, and the invigorating stair climbs. It's a great spot for a moderate hike close to the city, offering rewarding waterfall views and opportunities to observe local wildlife. Some find the stairs challenging, and caution is advised for those with mobility issues or very young children.
"Glen Canyon Park has 3 easy access points, and these photos cover 2 of one's closest to the Lake.
The first one is very wheelchair accessible and has a nice walkway and bridge with a view point. Pretty level and nice view of the river.
The second spot is about a 3 minute drive around the corner and nestled into the hillside. It has a nice little pond area where the salmon rest before going up river. Then there's a 5 min walk on fairly smooth ground that stops at a large set of stairs to the left and a broken path on the left that leads to the grotto. It's a short path but lots of roots and really narrow. It's a really awesome area with cliffs on either side. You can see where someone did some mining and cut holes into the hillside. Unfortunately I wasn't able to climb the stairs on this trip but I have walked the very top part of the park and that's a medium walk with lots of up and down and even a landslide that you have to crawl over. It has a sign on from 10 years ago that says don't cross over but I know lots of people that have.
You need to be bear aware in this park since it's a spawning river and in the upper area I have seen bears digging for bees nests right beside the path.
It's a really beautiful park if you want short walks or a couple of hours."
Bill knox
"Great hiking trail. So lovely to be in nature so close to the city. Would not be ideal for mobility issues, strollers, or small children on their own as there are lots of stairs and narrow paths with sometimes tricky footing (for littles), but our whole family loved it. It was beautiful hiking beside the creek and watching the falls from the bridge. We parked off the Gellatly entrance and hiked all the way to the splash pad/Julia's Junction playground for a midway picnic and then hiked back."
Chantal Hayashi
"The journey began with a picturesque path lined with towering trees and the gentle rustling of leaves underfoot.
What struck me most about this trail was its diversity. From lush forests to rocky terrains, every step offered a new and exciting challenge. The trail meandered alongside a babbling brook, providing a soothing soundtrack to the entire experience. Along the way, I encountered a variety of flora and fauna, each adding to the trail's charm."
mehrnaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Glen Canyon Regional Park has multiple access points. The Gellatly Road South trailhead is a popular starting point, offering parking and access to trails. Other access points are available, providing different entry experiences into the park. 
Yes, parking is available at several trailheads, including the one at 4258 Gellatly Rd S in West Kelowna. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.
Information on public transport routes directly to the park's trailheads can be limited. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for West Kelowna or consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a car.
While some trails might be suitable for experienced cyclists, the park is primarily known for its hiking trails, which often involve stairs and uneven terrain. Check park signage for specific cycling regulations.
Key access points include the Gellatly Road South entrance and another entrance near a pond area with stairs leading into the canyon. These offer different starting points for exploring the park's diverse landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Glen Canyon Regional Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the natural beauty and hiking trails for free!
As a natural park, Glen Canyon Regional Park is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local park authority websites for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No, tickets are not required for general access to Glen Canyon Regional Park. It's a public space meant for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, guided treks with park interpreters are sometimes offered, focusing on the park's natural features like hidden cascades. Keep an eye on park event schedules for these opportunities.
Yes, you can visit, but dogs are not allowed near the creek during salmon spawning season to protect the fish. Be mindful of wildlife and follow all posted regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers a variety of trails, from easy, wheelchair-accessible walkways along the river to more challenging paths with numerous stairs and uneven footing leading into the canyon.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for hiking, offering a mix of moderate challenges with its stairs and inclines, and beautiful natural scenery along Powers Creek.
Yes, there are several viewpoints offering lovely vistas of the river and canyon. One notable spot provides a view of three waterfalls, made accessible by a bridge.
You might spot various birds and, during spawning season, salmon in Powers Creek. Bears are also present, so it's important to be bear-aware.
While some parts are accessible, many trails involve stairs and tricky footing, making them less ideal for very young children or strollers without supervision. The playground area offers a good alternative.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Glen Canyon Regional Park is a natural area and does not have on-site restaurants or cafes. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks.
The park is located near West Kelowna, where you'll find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores. Pack a picnic to enjoy within the park for a more immersive experience.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the park! There are areas suitable for picnics, and you can even combine it with a visit to the playground at Julia's Junction.
Since there are no dining facilities, packing easy-to-carry, energy-boosting snacks like trail mix, fruits, and sandwiches is highly recommended for your hike.
Park regulations regarding alcohol can vary. It's best to check the official park guidelines or signage upon arrival to ensure compliance.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for viewpoints along the trails, especially near the waterfall and along Powers Creek. The diverse terrain and lush greenery offer many picturesque scenes.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in parks. It's essential to check with the local park authority for any permits or restrictions on drone operation before flying.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing both wide landscape shots and details of flora and fauna. A wide-angle lens can be great for the canyon views.
Yes, photographing the salmon in Powers Creek during their spawning run can be a unique and rewarding experience, showcasing a vital part of the ecosystem.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The shaded canyon can also offer unique lighting conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💪 Fitness Enthusiasts
+1 Hikers can ascend numerous steps that wind through the canyon, providing an excellent leg and glute workout. Combine this with the varied terrain and inclines, and you have a comprehensive outdoor fitness experience right on the edge of the city. Remember to stay hydrated and wear appropriate footwear for maximum performance and safety. 🐶 Dog Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the accessible pathways near the river offer pleasant strolls with scenic river views. However, venturing deeper into the canyon, especially towards the waterfall, involves climbing stairs and navigating root-covered paths. It's crucial to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip to ensure safety and comfort on these varied trails.
Be aware that some upper sections of the park may have signs indicating potential hazards like landslides, advising against crossing. Always prioritize safety and adhere to park signage. The park is also a habitat for wildlife, so staying on marked trails is recommended to minimize disturbance and ensure your safety.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
Beyond the aquatic life, the park is also known to be bear habitat. Visitors are strongly advised to be bear-aware, especially when hiking in more secluded areas or during times when bears are more active. Carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking can help prevent unwanted encounters. Following park guidelines and respecting wildlife is paramount to ensuring both visitor safety and the preservation of the park's natural inhabitants.
Conservation is key to maintaining the park's ecological balance. This includes respecting the restrictions placed during sensitive periods, such as the salmon spawning season, where dogs are not permitted near the creek. By adhering to 'leave no trace' principles and being mindful of the environment, visitors contribute to the long-term health and beauty of Glen Canyon Regional Park.
Photography Opportunities
+1For capturing the best shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and flattering. The shaded canyon can also create dramatic lighting effects. Don't forget to bring a versatile camera setup, perhaps with a wide-angle lens for sweeping canyon views and a zoom lens for capturing details of flora, fauna, or the waterfall.
Drone enthusiasts should be aware that regulations for drone usage in parks can be strict. It's essential to check with the local park authorities for any necessary permits or restrictions before flying. Regardless of your equipment, the park's natural beauty provides ample opportunities for stunning photography, from grand vistas to intimate forest scenes.
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