If you’ve ever driven around Vernon, BC and looked straight ahead at the mountain topped with powerline poles (Becker Lake Trail) – that’s Vernon Hill. It’s not a formal hiking destination, but it offers a mix of adventure, challenge, and surprising views if you’re willing to go off the beaten path.
My husband Tom and I love hiking, and my son Kevin does mountain biking besides hiking. We found three ways to experience Vernon Hill and its hidden gem, Becker Lake Recreation Site.
Hike Becker Lake Trail to Vernon Hill
If you’re up for a real workout and don’t mind walking under power lines, there’s the rugged Becker Lake Trail that goes straight up. The route follows the tall powerline poles you see from town. It’s not marked, but you won’t get lost – just follow the lines up. Once you reach the guly, follow ATV trails up to a FSR (Forest Service Road). After one kilometer walk on FSR you’ll arrive one of the Becker Lake camping area which has a small dock.
- Distance: ~15 km round trip
- Elevation gain: ~880 meters
- Trail type: Steep, exposed, no shade
My husband and son hiked this trail in April, with some snow still at the summit. It was hard work but rewarding – I don’t recommend this hike for beginners.
Drive the Back Road from Lavington
Not a fan of climbing? You can drive all the way up from Lavington — the “backside” of Vernon Hill. The road is unpaved and bumpy, so a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended.
- Distance: 14 km one way
- Time: ~40 mins from Vernon
- Road conditions: Gravel/dirt, dusty, can be muddy in spring
- Access: Drive in via Noble Canyon Rd → Coldstream Creek Forest Service Road → Coldstream–Becker FSR → turn into either camping areas.
At the top, you’ll find Becker Lake, a small peaceful lake with two campgrounds, both with picnic tables, outhouses, and fire pits. The first site is much larger and the second has a small wooden dock. You can walk in the woods in between but a bug spray is a must at summer time.
Ride a Dirt Bike, ATV, or Mountain Bike
This area is a bit of a secret playground for off-roaders. All along the hill and into the forest you’ll find narrow bike trails, ATV tracks, and dirt paths weaving through the trees.
Even if you’re not riding, it’s interesting to see how locals use the hill – it’s an active recreational zone with everything from bikes to cows (yes, there are cattle wandering through the area!).
What We Did: Easy Walk from the Top
This time, we drove up to Becker Lake and parked at the second campground. It’s a quiet Friday morning and Beck Lake belongs to ourselves. From there, we walked about 5 km round trip along the main road, mostly to get a view of both Kalamalka Lake and Okanagan Lake. The viewpoints are not far from Beck Lake, and you can drive there as well.
A Few Practical Notes
- Dust is real – cars kick up thick clouds, so drive as slow as you can if you see and pass people.
- Bring bug spray – we met some black flies, but thankfully they’re not as fierce as Ontario’s.
- Cow crossings – you may find cattle and… cow poops on the road.
- Fishing & Boating – Some folks bring inflatables or canoes to fish. But if you’re not into that, the long drive might not feel worth it just for a picnic.
- Camping – free, but no cell service.
Nearby Trail Ideas
If you’re looking for more hikes near Vernon that are easier to follow, check out Great Vernon Trails Map from Vernon Tourism. Here are what we hiked:
- Gray Canal Trail – A scenic, gentle trail system winding through Vernon’s hillside orchards and grasslands. Great for families and evening walks.
- BX Creek Trail – Follows a shaded creek with small waterfalls and footbridges. Much cooler on hot days.
- Bluenose Mountain – Shaded forest trail with 3 mini summits to view Silverstar and Monashee mountains.
Final Thoughts
Becker Lake Trail isn’t a classic BC hike with signage and trailheads, but it’s a fun, flexible way to explore Vernon Hill — whether you’re hiking, driving, or biking. It’s a mix of effort, curiosity, and local wilderness. Just don’t forget to wash your shoes after.
Staying Overnight in Vernon?
If you’re planning to explore more trails around Vernon or just want to relax after your adventure, check out local accommodations on booking.com
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