Starting at the Visitor Centre in Oliver, you can access the 18.8km Eastside Hike and Bike Greenway that follows an old CPR rail line and the Okanagan River. The Visitor Center is home in the old railway depot.
This pedestrian bridge and another one about a km further down the trail connects both sides of the trail. The plaque is near the entrance to the first pedestrian bridge not far from the information signs behind the Visitor Center.
Lions Park is a popular designation for adults and families. There are several exercise equipment stations, an all wheel skate park, and recently added a dog park.
The park features ample shaded areas provided by massive trees throughout the park. Along the walking paths, in the park, are lush grassy areas, dedicated benches, picnic tables and a playground for young children.
Town of Oliver
Okanagan River
Pedestrian Bridge
July 2007
Made possible with funding from the
British Columbia
LocalMotion Program
"OLIVER HIKE AND BIKE PATH
A favorite thing to do in Oliver, British Columbia is to walk or ride a bike down the International Hike and Bike Trail. The trail is mostly paved, flat, easily accessible, and is completely car free. This well maintained trail that meanders along the west side of Okanagan River is 18.4 km long of which almost 10 km is paved. (South of Oliver the last eight km towards Osoyoos is gravel).
Although the trail access is right in the heart of Oliver, once you are on the trail you are surrounded by nature. There are several oxbows and ponds where you can observe ducks, herons, eagles, and painted turtles in their home environment. In early summer, watch out in the ponds for the beautiful lily pads that flower bright pink. In the summer months you will find great spots for picnics and secluded swims in the river. Fall brings the changing colors of leaves and the bright red sumac is photo worthy. Fall is also the perfect time for watching the salmon spawn in the Okanagan River. What ever time of year you visit, make sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty you are bound to see in a walk or bike ride down Oliver’s Hike and Bike Trail.
There are three well-known access points to the Hike and Bike Trail. The first is at the beginning of the trail at McAlpine Bridge where Highway 97 crosses the Okanagan River. The other two are both in the town of Oliver and are very close to each other. One is directly behind the Oliver Tourist Information Centre and the other is behind the Kinsman Playground and Water Park. There are also access points South of Oliver anywhere where a bridge passes over the Okanagan River." Source: Explore Oliver
I often walk this trail entering near the Visitor's Center. This is a very busy trail often used by walkers and bikers. Spring is a lovely time of year, as the nesting birds and ducks are busy preparing for new arrivals. The river is still active with the spring run off and there are nice viewing areas along this trail.