Maps of the Carmi Subdivision – Midway to Penticton  

It is important to remember that the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, while well marked in some areas, can seem a bit remote at others.  It’s wise to have a general idea of your distances, times and direction before setting out on your trip.  These straight forward maps will give you some of the basics.

You can now purchase maps online or contact us to buy directly in Penticton or for more information.  These full colour maps can be purchased individually for sections of the Midway to Penticton route and south to Osoyoos or as a set of 4 or 6 maps.

For more tips on cycling from Midway to Penticton and on to Osoyoos, you can also read our Blog Series – we cycled this route in June 2011 and have provided photos, mileage, trail conditions and support vehicle tips as well.  Please feel free to add your comments to help keep our Blog Info up to date and accurate!

The above maps were very generously provided by “Bill” who cycled the KVR from Midway to Penticton in 2008 with a group of friends.  You can view his photo/blog here: Bills 2008 KVR Trip

View Google Maps here:  Midway, BC:  View Larger Map  Penticton, BC:  View Larger Map

Trail Etiquette

Just as important as your enjoyment of the trail, is ensuring you adhere to some basic principals which will in turn ensure the future of the trail for cyclists to come.  The following guidelines are also posted along the trail:
  • Please respect the rights of all trail users and keep to the right
  • Cyclists slow down, communicate and exercise caution when passing hikers and equestrians.  Give horses a wide berth.
  • Anticipate that other trail users may be around corners or in blind spots.
  • Respect the environment and the rights of adjoining land users.  Leave ranch and farm gates as you find them or as marked.
  • The trail route may go through active logging, trapping, farming and mining environments.  For your safety, please obey any industrial signage.
  • Do not take shortcuts or ride off the trail as it will damage vegetation and cause erosion.
  • Smoking, camping and campfires are not allowed on the trail.  Please dispose of all waste properly.
  • Keep dogs on a leash and under control at all times.
  • Do not litter, if you pack it in, pack it out.
Weather

Environment Canada has a great website with current and historical data for weather.

Be prepared! check the forecast before you set out on your trip!  Following are links to The Weather Network for each town along the trail that this website encompasses from east to west.  There are no links for the higher elevations from Beaverdell to Chute Lake but you can count on that area being somewhat cooler as you will be at the highest elevation of the trail.

 The weather from Midway to Penticton can vary considerably as you will be traveling from one valley over a mountain highland area and descending into another valley – from the Kettle River Valley in the east, over the Okanagan Highlands and down into the Okanagan Valley.

Spring will arrive to the valleys in April/May, but this may be earlier than over the higher alpine areas such as Idabel or Chute Lake.  If you are considering a multi day trip it is wise to wait until danger of late snows and wet spring weather have passed.  Generally from mid-May on you should be fine but you will likely encounter wet areas in the higher elevations from the snowmelt.

Summer arrives in full force during the month of June to all areas and July and August are very hot and dry with average daily temperatures in the high 20’s.  It is not uncommon to reach the high 30’s and up to 40 degrees Celsius especially if you go down to Kelowna or Penticton.  If you extend your trip south on the spur route through Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos you will find even hotter and drier country.  It is therefore very important to always have plenty of water/fluids with you and sun screen.

Autumn can be a delightful time to ride with typically dry conditions and sunny days.  From end of August through September and even early October, the trail can be ridden comfortably by day.  Keep in mind the days will draw to a close earlier and the nights get very chilly so be prepared if you are camping.

It is important to realize that if your trip reaches the alpine lakes – Idabel, McCulloch, Chute Lake – you are in much different country than the valleys.  It can be very deceiving to set off from either the east or west side of the trail in warm or even hot conditions – the mountains and higher elevations can be quite different.

Be prepared at all times of year by bringing rain and wind gear and a dry change of clothing.

What to Bring

Clothing

  • wet weather gear/extra layers for cool or wet days including a good rain jacket – be prepared for all seasons!
  • light layers so you can add on or take off depending on the day – synthetic or wool are best for quick drying and keeping you warm when wet
  • bike helmet
  • bike shorts are recommended! they may not look pretty but you’ll learn to love them!

First Aid Kit – a basic first aid kit is always recommended when you are involved in a wilderness activity – be sure to take any personal medication/allergy support if you need.

Water – lots of it!  you should plan to drink at least 1.5-2.5 litres of water/day so always be sure you plan your trip with access to refills along the way.

Sunscreen – apply liberally!  especially during the peak summer months the sun is very intense.

Insect repellent – the area is mostly dry, but in wet conditions you may encounter mosquitos – especially if you are camping.