The Vernon Outdoors Club (VOS) has been helping people enjoy the great outdoors for over 50 years. It’s a fantastic way to stay active while making new friends.
Rudi van Zwaaij, the current president, joined the club in 2014 and has loved it ever since. He appreciates the wide variety of activities offered and the fact that everything is organized by passionate volunteers.
“We encourage our members to volunteer, making each event special and easing the workload on coordinators,” Rudi explained. The club welcomes about 250 to 300 members each year.
As winter snowshoeing wraps up in March, VOS shifts gears for the spring and summer. From April to October, the club hosts activities like cycling, rambling, and hiking.
“Living in Vernon and the North Okanagan, we are surrounded by amazing outdoor spots,” Rudi said. The club’s Thursday biking program is perfect for all cycling levels, featuring different routes each week. Riders travel at a moderate pace and can choose from paved roads or easier off-road trails, with options for shorter or longer rides.
In September, there’s a special bike camp near Christina Lake, offering a week of adventure.
On Tuesdays, the club organizes shorter hikes called “rambling.” These hikes last between 5 to 12 kilometers at a relaxed pace and often end with a social gathering. It’s a great way to stay active and meet new people.
Sunday is dedicated to more challenging hikes. As the season progresses, hikes become longer and more difficult, ranging from 12 to 20 kilometers at higher elevations during the summer. Participants can often choose between easier and more challenging options on the same day.
“If you’ve never hiked in the Monashee Mountains, you should definitely join us. The views are stunning!” Rudi encourages.
In July, the club hosts a week-long hike camp, with this year’s camp taking place in Cranbrook.
VOS also gives back to the community by maintaining local trails, ensuring they’re safe and enjoyable year-round.
If you’re curious about joining or want to learn more, visit vernonoutdoorsclub.org. The club is eager to welcome younger members who share a love for nature.
Check out this related article: Unlocking the Passion: How a Vernon Man’s Love for Trading Cards Sparked an Exciting Collectible Show!
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