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Fun Facts
From local legends to little-known facts, explore what
makes Okanagan Falls uniquely unforgettable.
Local History
KVR Trestle Bridge
After rail service ended in 1989, the former Kettle Valley Railway corridor was converted into the Kettle Valley Rail Trail during the 1990s. Since then, the trestle bridge has been open to walkers, cyclists, and other trail users as part of the Trans Canada Trail network.
Black Pearl Resort Heritage Cabins
The original cabins at Black Pearl Resort are more than 100 years old. Built in 1918, they were originally located on the Penticton lakeshore waterfront as Kelly's Cabins. In 1963, the cabins were moved by truck to their current location in Okanagan Falls, where they remain a unique part of the area's history.
Tickleberry's History
Tickleberry's opened in Okanagan Falls in 1990. Founded by Dale and Jenette Hoy, the family-run ice cream shop has become one of the South Okanagan's most iconic destinations, serving locals and visitors for over 35 years.
The Red Barn
The Red Barn is a longtime Okanagan Falls landmark. Originally built for agricultural use during the community's early farming years, it later became a popular antique store before taking on new roles over the years. Its distinctive red exterior continues to make it one of the area's most recognizable historic buildings.
Oldest Neighbour-hood
Dogtown is the oldest neighbourhood in Okanagan Falls. Established in 1893, it was the original townsite of the community before the name was changed to Okanagan Falls.
BC Livestock Auction
​Visitors can still attend cattle auctions in Okanagan Falls at BC Livestock. The auction yard remains an important part of the community's ranching heritage, hosting regular livestock sales that draw buyers and sellers from across British Columbia.
Birdwatching
Okanagan Falls is internationally recognized for its exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Located along the Pacific Flyway and surrounded by lakes, wetlands, grasslands, and cliffs, the area attracts hundreds of bird species throughout the year, making it one of British Columbia's premier birding destinations.
History of OkFalls Hotel
Built in 1950, the OK Falls Hotel has been a cornerstone of Okanagan Falls for more than 75 years. Originally serving travelers, ranchers, and railroad workers, the historic hotel remains a community gathering place after its restoration and reopening in 2023.
Goldfish Pond
The Goldfish Pond at the former Dusty Mac Mine was created when an old quarry filled with water. The goldfish were introduced by people, likely released pets, and their descendants can still be seen in the pond today.
Oldest Wineries
Winegrowing in Okanagan Falls dates back more than a century. Major Hugh Fraser planted vineyards at what is now See Ya Later Ranch in 1920, while Stag's Hollow Winery, founded in 1995 as the region's third winery, helped launch the modern OK Falls wine industry
Horse Ranches
​Okanagan Falls has a rich ranching heritage and remains home to horse owners and ranching families today. The community is especially proud of rodeo legend Kenny McLean, who grew up on a local ranch and became one of Canada's most celebrated cowboys.
Wine Name Origins
Named after the famous 1929 story of a church that was loosened with dynamite before being moved from Fairview to Okanagan Falls.
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Named to reflect a positive outlook on life, "living in uppercase rather than lowercase." The winery brand emphasizes optimism and celebrating life's big moments.
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Simply named after the founding Meyer family, pioneers in the region's modern wine industry.
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Named after a young stag spotted on the property and a dramatic kettle-hole depression, or “hollow,” located on the vineyard.
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Founders Rob and Michelle became known as “Wine Black Marketeers” for bringing hard-to-find Okanagan wines back to Alberta, inspiring the winery's name.
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Borrowed from the automotive term synchromesh, the mechanism that allows gears to shift smoothly. The name reflects harmony between vineyard, winemaking, and nature.
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​Named in tribute to the historic lakeboats and sternwheelers that once carried passengers, freight, and fruit along Okanagan lakes and helped build the region.
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A playful reference to the chaos and adventure of family life and running a small winery.
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A nod to both wine as a liquid art form and the winery's strong connection to art, creativity, and expression.
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Named for the noble character of the vineyard's ridge-top location overlooking Vaseux Lake and the South Okanagan.
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Inspired by the wild geese that migrate through and inhabit the Okanagan Valley.
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Bon Amici is Italian for “good friends,” reflecting the winery's focus on friendship, family, and sharing wine.
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Named after Major Hugh Fraser's habit of ending conversations with the phrase “See Ya Later.” The name became closely associated with the ranch and winery.
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Named after Blue Mountain, the prominent mountain overlooking the vineyard and surrounding valley.
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Named after the Common Nighthawk, a bird native to the South Okanagan grasslands and vineyards.