Skydiving over the Stunning Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan valley located in the southwest of British Columbia has one of the sunniest climates in Canada, making it perfect for any outdoor activity. The land has it all; lakes, mountains, abandoned rail beds, hiking trail systems, you name it. The valley includes several lakes, all of which were once part of a large glacial lake, and especially Okanagan Lake or Kalamalka Lake enhances valley's scenery. And right here, nestled between the historic Okanagan Lake and the majestic, turquoise waters of Kalamalka Lake, Okanagan Skydive, a full service skydive Centre that showcases one of the best views in the sport has its dropzone.

3. 9. 2015

The nearest city, Vernon, located in the North Okanagan Valley offers more than 100 lakes within a one-hour drive, mountain resorts, great beaches and trails, outstanding mountain biking, and most importantly, skydiving. One of the few airports in the Okanagan Valley that offer skydiving is the Vernon Regional Airport, a small, non-towered airport located southwest of the city. From here, the Okanagan Skydive operates tandem and solo jumps, taking divers to 10,000 ft altitude to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire Okanagan Valley.

Pristine lakes, lush orchards and vineyards, all of which make this region famous and more can be seen during the 20 min ride to altitude - you will see the snow-capped peaks of the Monashee Mountain range to the East, Big white, Silverstar and Sunpeaks Ski Hills, the majestic, turquoise waters of Kalamalka Lake or the Okanagan floating bridge - skydiving in Canada’s beautiful west coast province is sure to take your breath away.

If you are serious about learning to freefly, there is no better place than Okanagan Skydive. The dropzone owner, Bret Chalmers loves teaching people to skydive, and is always willing to coach. Bret is an accomplished freeflyer and tunnel flyer, and he has for example participated in the 2011 Canadian National Head Down Formation Record Attempts.

Bret really loves his job

The Kodiak basking in the sun.

Seasoned pilot Teddy Bates has been flying skydivers since 1986 - you'll be in good hands

Apart from tandem and solo jumps, the centre also offers complete licensing programs. They have recently started a PFF program where after your first skydive from a lower altitude, your second jump is now from 13000ft. If you are after some serious but fun skydiving, taking plunge from 10,000 ft up, flying down at 120mph, enjoying views that bring skydivers from all over the world to come to Okangang Valley, then check Brett and rest of the crew out. More information can be found on the official website.