Backwoods MamaJosée

Hiking Giant’s Head Mountain

Hiking Giant’s Head Mountain

Giant’s Head Mountain Park is a volcanic dome remnant located in the heart of Summerland, BC. The peak of this prominent geological feature offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the Okanagan valley making it a favourite spot among locals and tourists for...

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Hiking at Yellow Lake

Hiking at Yellow Lake

Yellow Lake is located 14 km west on Highway 3A from the Okanagan Highway 97 junction near Kaleden, BC. It is 27 km south-west from Penticton and 20km north-west from Okanagan Falls, BC. The lake is a good spot for shore fishing and is well stocked with trout making...

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Flowers and Snails

Flowers and Snails

We have had below average temperatures in the Okanagan for the first part of July. Usually at this time of year we spend our time on the beach and avoid hiking because it is sweltering hot. However, this cooler weather has been perfect for hiking adventures. We...

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An Evening Swim

An Evening Swim

The Okanagan Valley in summertime is bustling with activity. Tourists arrive in droves to enjoy what this incredible valley has to offer, and there is much! Our once quiet beaches become filled with the sounds and smells of summer and I find it all rather exciting....

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Biking Part of the International Hike and Bike Trail

Biking Part of the International Hike and Bike Trail

The International Hike and Bike Trail is 20 km recreational trail that begins 5.5 km north of Oliver, BC and ends at the north end of Osoyoos Lake. The trail follows the Okanagan River as it winds its way south to Osoyoos Lake and is wonderful way to explore the South...

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Garden Journal (yr 4: vol 3)

Garden Journal (yr 4: vol 3)

When we moved to the Okanagan four years ago I was very excited at the possibility of having a large garden. During our first winter here I dreamed of all the varieties of tomatoes and peppers I could grow and as soon as spring arrived we built four large raised...

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Picnicking at Linden Gardens

Picnicking at Linden Gardens

Linden Gardens is a lovely expanse of ornamental gardens located in Kaleden, BC. It is a popular location among locals and tourists for enjoying a leisurely stroll and delicious food. The Frog City Café, which is located near the main entrance of the gardens, is a...

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A Crush on Tinhorn Creek Vineyards

A Crush on Tinhorn Creek Vineyards

It's true, we have a crush on Tinhorn Creek Vineyards! As far as family friendly vineyards go in the South Okanagan, Tinhorn Creek is one of our favorites. For starters, their summer concert series are a blast for the whole family. A month ago we spent the evening...

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The Pharmasave Okanagan Falls Junior Triathlon

The Pharmasave Okanagan Falls Junior Triathlon

This is the fifth year of the Pharmasave Okanagan Falls Junior Triathlon. As a testament to how popular this kids triathlon has become, all the spots were filled within seventy-hours! Wow! The triathlon is FREE and very child friendly. The day before the event...

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Hiking the Golden Mile Stamp Mill Trail

Hiking the Golden Mile Stamp Mill Trail

The Golden Mile Stamp Mill Trail is located just south-west of Oliver, BC. The trail begins at the scenic Tinhorn Creek Winery. You can park at the wine shop and get a trail map from the friendly people there. From the parking area the trail goes through part of the...

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Ellis Creek: Canyon View Trail

Ellis Creek: Canyon View Trail

Ellis Creek Canyon is located on the east side of Penticton, BC. The creek is named after Thomas Ellis who was the first European immigrant to arrive in the Penticton area in 1865. There are several trails along the canyon ridge and another trail along the canyon...

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Hiking Gear for Kids

Hiking Gear for Kids

  DayPacksThe CamelBak Kid's Mini Mule is what my kids use most often for day hikes. It carries 1.5L of water and has enough room for a couple snacks. The limited room prevents kids from packing unnecessary items which can be challenge with younger children. When...

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Summerland Ornamental Gardens

Summerland Ornamental Gardens

The Summerland Ornamental Gardens are located at the south end of Summerland, BC. The turnoff is located on Highway 97, opposite SunOka Beach, and is the same turnoff as to the Agriculture Canada Research Centre. Follow the signs up the hill until the entry kiosk is...

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Hiking Munson Mountain

Hiking Munson Mountain

Munson Mountain is an extinct volcano located on the north-east end of Penticton, BC. It is well know for its giant PENTICTON sign, clearly visible from across Okanagan lake, and for the great panoramic views it offers of the South Okanagan valley. The access road to...

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Hiking at Mountain Springs Nature Retreat

Hiking at Mountain Springs Nature Retreat

Mountain Springs Nature Retreat is a bed and breakfast and nature centre located in the Marron Valley, just west of Kaleden and Skaha Lake. From Highway 97, turn onto Highway 3A going towards Keremeos and Vancouver. Drive 6.1 km along Highway 3A looking carefully for...

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Tinhorn Creek Concert: The Pernell Reichert Band

Tinhorn Creek Concert: The Pernell Reichert Band

The much anticipated Tinhorn Creek concert series recently opened with the foot-stomping Pernell Reichert Band. Once a month, from May to September, the beautiful natural amphitheater at Tinhorn Creek is filled with great music and dancing. What makes...

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