Carrot Mountain Bluffs is a rocky outcropping on the east end of Carrot Mountain offering spectacular views over Okanagan lake. In less than 2km there is an elevation gain of nearly 600m which is steeper than Vancouver’s Grouse Grind (but only 2/3 the distance and height). No matter how you cut it, this a nice strenuous little climb that you can run up in 30-40 minutes or a more leisurely 60-90 minutes. There is also a waterfall part way up.
It is possible to make this hike a loop. Make sure to use a GPS as this portion of the trail is not so easy to follow/find.
Peak baggers might be wondering, why just the bluffs? Why not Carrot summit? Indeed, Carrot mountain has a summit but there is no trail from the bluffs. It’s also another 4.5km as the crow flies which makes for a dreadful several hour bushwhack. For more on Carrot summit and alternate routes go here.
Directions To Trailhead:
Distance from downtown Kelowna to Trailhead: 20 minutes (12 km)
Walking time: 2-3 hours
Trail Length: 5km round trip
Elevation gain: 550m
GPS: Not necessary
Easy to Keep on Trail: yes
