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One year I had planned to bike the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) from Brookmere to Midway, a distance of 331 km (199 miles). I spent quite a bit of time working on the logistics of the KVR bike trip, especially the accommodation as my husband and I were trying to avoid camping.
The thought of lugging a tent, sleeping bag and cooking utensils on the Kettle Valley Railway wasn’t what I had in my mind though it’s done by plenty of people. Much of the time there’s no choice in what’s available – be it a lodge, B&B or small hotel.
2023 update: There have been so many closures on the Kettle Valley Railway with many older people closing down their businesses. If you don’t mind paying for a one week bike ride, then check out KVR Cycle Tours. I have left the places where people are still in business, but to do what I had previously planned wil require some camping.
Here’s where you can stay if you bike the Kettle Valley Railway.
Kettle Valley Railway self-guided itinerary with accommodation options
Day 1: Start in Brookmere – Bike 43 km to Coalmont. There was a place but it closed so you’ll likely have to camp or go the Airbnb route.
Day 2: Coalmont to Jellicoe Station – Bike 59 km. Again, the lovely lodge has closed.
Day 3: Bike 58 km from Jellicoe Station to Summerland Station – Stay ????
Day 4: Summerland Station to Chute Lake Resort – Bike 59 km (mostly up) – stay at the Chute Lake Lodge. The lodge was bought in 2019 and improvements have been made. Now they have glamping and dining.
Day 5: Chute Lake Lodge to Idabel Lake – Bike 53 km – stay at the Idabel Lake Private Residences and Cottages.
Day 6: Idabel Lake to Beaverdell – Bike 50 km – stay at Highland Cabins of Beaverdell.
Day 7: Beaverdell to Midway – Bike 68 km – stay at the Mile Zero Hotel Ph: 250-449-2828. Rates are about $114 and up per night as of 2023.
It can be a challenge to do a self-guided bike trip
As you can see it’s a challenge to bike the Kettle Valley Railway on your own and you almost need a small tent and extra food for backup. The other option is to cycle the best sections with KVR Cycle Tours.
Whether you choose one day or 14 days, you won’t be disappointed – perhaps physically exhausted, hot and sweaty, but also happy and proud for accomplishing this challenging bike ride.
Further reading on things to do in the Okanagan
- 5 Summer Penticton Activities for the Outdoors Lover
- 5 of the Best Bike Rides You’ll Want to do in the South Okanagan
- Bike Myra Canyon on the amazing Kettle Valley Railway
- A Guide to 3 Perfect Days in the South Okanagan
- 5 Awesome Hikes With a View Near Penticton