discover ABNC
Admission by Donation • Open seasonally • Experiences for all ages
Step into a world where the landscape tells its own story. The grounds at Allan Brooks Nature Centre offer a self-guided or guided journey through the rare and endangered ecosystems of the North Okanagan. From native grasslands and scenic viewpoints to pond life, pollinator gardens, interactive learning spaces, and digital discovery through the Nature Explorer app, every path offers a new way to connect with the natural world.
Trails • Viewpoints • Learning Zones
Experience 01
Explore one of the North Okanagan’s rare and endangered native grassland ecosystems through self-guided or guided trail experiences at Allan Brooks Nature Centre.
Along the trail, visitors can:
The Nature Centre also participates in the North Okanagan Naturalist Club Bluebird Nest Box Program, helping support local songbird populations throughout the site.
Experience 02
Experience panoramic views of Okanagan, Kalamalka, and Swan Lakes from scenic overlooks located throughout the grounds. These elevated viewpoints are also excellent locations for birdwatching, wildlife observation, photography, and quiet reflection within the landscape.
Experience 03
Discover the hidden world of wetland ecosystems through hands-on exploration and observation. Visitors can observe aquatic life, dragonflies, western painted turtles, and seasonal pond activity while learning about the important role wetlands play in healthy ecosystems.
Experience 04
Step into an interactive outdoor learning experience where you become part of the sundial itself. Using your own shadow to tell time, the Analemmatic Sundial combines science, astronomy, geometry, and outdoor discovery in a fun and engaging way for visitors of all ages.
Experience 05
Enhance your visit with the ABNC Nature Explorer App, designed to encourage interactive learning and outdoor discovery throughout the Centre and grounds. Visitors can participate in scavenger hunts, species identification activities, nature observations, and family-friendly educational experiences both indoors and outdoors.
Adult Explorer Mode
Child Adventurer Mode
Experience 06
Throughout the grounds, visitors will find natural play spaces, discovery zones, and quiet places designed to encourage curiosity, exploration, and connection with the landscape. Logs, pathways, boulders, and open spaces invite children and families to experience nature through unstructured outdoor play and discovery.
Availability
Operating Season
April – October
Daily Hours
9:00 AM – 3:30 PM Tuesday – Saturday
* Note: Hours may vary during holiday weekends or special events. Please check our calendar before traveling.
Plan for 1–2 hours to fully enjoy the trails and indoor exhibits without rushing.
Interactive spaces designed for curious minds of all ages.
Discover the secrets of the water. Our pond study area allows visitors to observe aquatic life up close, from dragonflies to western painted turtles.
Become the hand of time. This human-interactive clock uses your own shadow to tell the hour of the day. A unique blend of geometry, astronomy, and outdoor play.
Our features are connected by a gentle loop that spans the entire crest of the hill. Follow the “Raven’s Way” markers for a complete 90-minute immersion.
Natural play areas crafted from the landscape itself. Logs, boulders, and secret paths invite children to engage in unscripted discovery.
To help protect the sensitive grassland ecosystem and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, we ask that the following guidelines be respected during your visit.
Children & Supervision
Children must remain under adult supervision at all times. Please help us protect the site by ensuring children do not climb on fences, railings, rocks, exhibits, or planted areas.
Trail Use
The trails are for pedestrian use only. Please stay on designated pathways and be considerate of other visitors while exploring the grounds. The main trail is wheelchair accessible from the southern parking lot.
Respect the Environment
Please help us protect this sensitive ecosystem by leaving all plants, animals, rocks, and natural materials where you find them. We encourage visitors to explore, observe, photograph, and enjoy nature respectfully while helping preserve the habitat for future generations.
In this environment, we are all visitors and guests within the home of local wildlife.
No Pets
Dogs and other pets are not permitted anywhere on the Nature Centre grounds. Domestic animals can disturb sensitive wildlife and habitats, including species at risk that call the grasslands home.
No Smoking or Vaping
The Allan Brooks Nature Centre is a non-smoking and non-vaping site at all times. Due to extreme wildfire risk within the dry grassland environment, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited anywhere on the property.
Waste & Recycling
Please place all garbage and recycling in the designated receptacles located throughout the site.
Follow Staff Guidance
Our Nature Interpreters and staff are trained to ensure visitor safety and protect the environment. Please follow all staff instructions regarding wildlife, trails, exhibits, weather conditions, and site safety.
Leave No Trace
Take only photographs, leave only footprints.
