Westside Road is a scenic route that winds along the west side of Okanagan Lake, connecting the communities of Kelowna and Vernon. The road has a long and interesting history, dating back to the early days of settlement in the Okanagan Valley.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Westside Road was a major transportation route for goods and people traveling between Kelowna and other communities to the north. The road was originally built as a wagon trail, and it was a difficult and treacherous journey for early travelers due to the rugged terrain and steep cliffs along the lakeshore.
In the early 1900s, the construction of the Kettle Valley Railway brought new transportation options to the area, and Westside Road became less important as a transportation route. However, it remained an important link between the communities along the west side of the lake, and it was eventually paved in the 1960s, making it a more accessible and safe route for drivers.
Today, Westside Road is a popular scenic drive for visitors to the area, offering stunning views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains. The road also provides access to several parks, beaches, and hiking trails along the west side of the lake, including Bear Creek Provincial Park and Fintry Provincial Park.
Overall, the history of Westside Road is closely tied to the history of settlement and transportation in the Okanagan Valley, and it remains an important part of the region’s heritage and culture.