What are the Boulderfields?
The Boulderfields in Kelowna are a unique and exciting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and rock climbers. This natural playground offers a wide variety of boulders and rock formations, providing endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. It is 1 km squared of endless boulders. They range from V0 to V13 with a great mix of low balls and high balls. The rock there is composed of Monashee Gniess, a type of metamorphic rock that creates problems with dynamic movements and a wild array of hold types. Some would even say it is the best steep bouldering in Canada. It has been speculated that over 3000 problems could exist here.
Why Visit the Boulderfields?
If you're a fan of outdoor activities and love climbing, the Boulderfields in Kelowna should be at the top of your bucket list. Here's why:
1. Breathtaking Scenery
Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, the Boulderfields offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. There has been a lot of speculation of how the boulderfields were formed. Some believe it was a massive sink hole that had collapsed leaving boulders in its wake. This also explains the intricate cave systems that lay below the boulders in this area. Which are also worth checking out!
2. Endless Climbing Routes
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, the Boulderfields have something for everyone. With a wide range of difficulty levels, you can challenge yourself and improve your climbing skills while enjoying the great outdoors.
3. Camping and Outdoor Activities
For those who want to extend their adventure, camping options are available near the Boulderfields. There is free camping at the Boulderfields parking lot with one community managed toilet but no running water. It is a British Columbia Provincial Rec site and you are free to stay up to 14 days. The Boulderfields are 20km away from Kelowna and there are no stores or groceries near by so it is best if you bring everything you need for your stay. Additionally, the area offers hiking trails, and mountain biking for those days off climbing.
How to Get to the Boulderfields
Located ouside of Kelowna, the Boulderfields is accessible by car. The road can be quite bad so it is best to wait till the drier months unless you have 4x4.
1. From downtown Kelowna, head towards Lakeshore on Richter Street.
2. Turn left onto Lakeshore and head towards the mission area.
3. Continue up lakeshore until it turns into Chute Road. Keep straight to stay on this road. Soon after you will see Gillard FSR on your left. Turn up the forest service road.
4. Look for signs indicating the Boulderfields and turn right onto the access road.
5. Follow the road until you reach the parking area.
Where to Buy the Book
If you're interested in learning more about the Boulderfields. Consider purchasing the Okanagan Bouldering book, pick it up at your local outdoor shop like Valhalla Pure or Eskala Sports. This comprehensive guide provides detailed descriptions of the boulders, camping information, and a great map showing where all the boulders are located. There are also some other great areas to check out in the book as well.
The book is a necessity for climbing here as the sheer amount of boulders and the dizzying landscape can be hard to navigate.
