Welcome to one of the most beautiful places in Canada! In my 4 years of living in the Okanagan, I still can’t believe how beautiful it is living by the Okanagan Lake. This valley has desert, mountain trails, backcountry lakes, creeks, and forests. I love living in the Okanangan and have been able to explore so many beautiful spots around the valley so I wanted to share a few places in Kelowna, Penticton, Vernon, and beyond for engagement photos or family photos even!
If you need some inspiration for your session, or even if you want to propose in Kelowna, or anywhere around the Okanagan, check out this list of 11 unique and beautiful locations from Penticton to Summerland to Kelowna to Lake Country and Vernon!
1. Your home!
Engagement sessions don’t always have to be out in the wild! Guaranteed this will be the most unique option! If your home fills with light and you have a lot of memories together at home, I can’t tell you how special it would be to have photos in a place you love and feel at ease. Your neighbourhood is also a great option, especially if you spend time going for walks nearby, or walking to the store or cafe!
2. Mt Munson or The Kettle Valley Railway Trail in Penticton
Oh babyyy, you are in for a treat. If you’re looking for killer views of the Okanagan lake and the classic sage bush lined cliffs, this is the place to be. The perfect spot for frolicking in the fields or for a sunset picnic. Fun fact, Mount Munson is home to the giant PENTICTON sign that you can see across the lake driving in from Summerland; and the KVR trail can take you right through the mountains to Kelowna – a great adventure by bike!
3. IN THE LAKE!
Specifically, Summerland and Peachland both have great beachfronts with docks for jumping off. If you love spending time in the water and down to have some fun together, head to the water.
4. Kalamoir Provincial Park, West Kelowna
Deer trails, forest, unique rock face, and views… Kalamoir has got it all! Feel free to bring your canoe or paddle boards to spice it up.
5. Bertram Creek Regional Park, South Kelowna
Bertram Creek is a local’s favourite. Quieter than beaches in downtown Kelowna and so much to offer! You will find a large rocky terrain and a couple pebble beaches in the South part of the beach, the North part of the beach offers a amphitheatre and wide open spaces of grass and a long beach!
6. Kuipers Peak Mountain Park, Kelowna
Okay letting you in on a little secret here… if you don’t want to spend an hour hiking and getting sweaty for your session, you have to check out Kuipers. The views are just about 360 and unique in every direction. Even on one of the Okanagan’s many smokey summer days, it’s a treat to be up at Kuipers for sunset.
7. Mount Baldy, Kelowna
Another little gem in the heart of Kelowna (: A large hill towers above Scandia… and despite 420 being written largely on the side, you will find charming fields to frolick in and steep trails to the top, which offers incredible views of the city.
8. Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Vernon
A rare beauty! Kalamalka is one of a few rare and unique marl lakes…in the warmer months, you will be amazed by the gleaming turquoise waters. The hike up to Rattles-snake Point is about 30 minutes and winds through treelined trails.
9. Ellison Provincial Park, Vernon
Ellison Provincial Park reminds me of the coast (: Specifically anywhere along the Sea to Sky highway. If you’re looking for that coastal ocean vibe, well voila, we can even swing that in the Okanagan!
10. A Lake in the Backcountry
If you have the time + a vehicle that can manage some forest service roads, or better yet, a bit of off roading, then your options probably just tripled. The Okanagan is surrounded by mountains and beautiful trails that lead up to small fishing lakes or reservoirs. If you’re into something a little messier, you will love this adventure for your engagement session.
11. “Unamed” Locations
Your photographer will likely have some hidden gems hidden up their sleeve (hi it’s me, I have so many gems in my head I want to shoot at!), or locations in mind that may require a bit more logistics and trusting their vision. If you want a unique location, talk to your photographer and ask if they have any locations that would fit your vibe and they’re eager to shoot at!
Hope you found something that makes your eyes wide! There are so many amazing locations with natural beauty and I can’t wait to explore more. I’m also stoked about the love for urban, city vibes photography. Kelowna’s downtown core is growing and the scenery is becoming so cute an aesthetic. We love to see it!
If you’re looking for a photographer for your engagement session in the Okanagan, anywhere from Osoyoos to Penticton, to Peachland, to Kelowna, to Lake Country and beyond, I would be so down to spend an afternoon with you documenting your love. Send me an email at hellodanikalee@gmail.com or fill out form on my contact page!
