Your Okanagan Summer Hiking Packing List
Summer is the perfect time to stretch your legs, pull your hiking gear out of the cupboard and get outside. Because the Okanagan is a hot, dry climate, you won’t want to leave for your hiking adventures without these essentials:
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Sunscreen
Sunscreen– The sun can be out for over 12 hours a day in the height of the Okanagan summer. For that reason, sunscreen is a must. And you’ll want to reapply often. It is so easy to get sunburnt and this can happen at any point in your hike!
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Mosquito Repellent
– Some years are worse than others for mosquitos in the Okanagan, but it’s always handy to carry some bug spray when you’re out and about. With lots of exposed skin in the summer, you have a greater chance of getting bitten – a truly uncomfortable experience!
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Water
– You should always take plenty of water with you when you’re hiking, but this is extremely important in the Okanagan where temperatures can reach 35 degrees Celsius or more. The heat is dry and can make you feel lethargic and exhausted if you don’t stay hydrated.
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Snacks
– Gather a selection of healthy snacks for your hike! You won’t want anything that’s going to melt in the sun, or get squashed at the bottom of your bag though. Take cereal bars, nuts, dried fruits, crackers and vegetable sticks – all of these are perfect for giving you bundles of energy right when you need it.
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Sun hat
– Have we mentioned that the sun is strong and out for hours upon end? Even if you’re not a hat fan, don’t risk not wearing one. Without a hat, your head will get hot faster and you’re more likely to get a headache.
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First Aid Supplies
– You never know when you are going to need a bandage or set of plasters. It is easy to fall on some loose rocks or get scratched by branches, and you want to be prepared if this happens. Your first aid kit should go everywhere with you and the Okanagan is no exception – even if you’re only going out for a short hike. Chuck in some bear spray, tweezers and a knife… just in case you see any wildlife!
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Hiking Boots
– It’s not worth wearing anything other than hiking boots! Running shoes, rain boots or sandals are just not going to cut it when you’re out in the Okanagan terrain. Good hiking boots will be water resistant, will have great tread and will give you ankle support. Brands that might be of interest are Salomon, Merrell, Keen or Columbia.
Now that you’re ready to go, why not check out our blog post on the best hikes in Kelowna? There are plenty of trails only a short distance away from La Casa, so you don’t have to worry about driving far!
Take a look – where will you head next?
To reserve a cottage for your summer holiday and enjoy the Okanagan sun, please contact our reservations line on 1-888-226-5566 or email rentals@lacasacottageresort.com where we will be more than happy to assist you!
Written by Hannah Poaros
