iN VIDEO: Gondola proposed to overlook Kal Lake near Vernon

The group behind Canada's highest suspension bridge is planning to build a gondola in the Okanagan which would overlook Kalamalka Lake near Predator Ridge.

The proposed Okanagan Gondola project – which is still in the planning phase – would see a gondola built to travel 1,600 feet from a site on Bailey Road, just outside Kekuli Bay Provincial Park, up to the summit.

"They are looking to build something similar to the Squamish Gondola, but this would be an amazing multi-faceted experience showcasing the glorious Kalamalka Lake" Senior Vice President for Wesbild Okanagan said in a press release. "If there is any viewpoint deserving of a gondola, it's the jewel of the Okanagan, Kalamalka Lake."

The company behind the project, Ridge North America, build Canada's highest suspension bridge in Golden.

The Okanagan Gondola project is currently in the planning stage with plans soon to be presented to the Regional District of North Okanagan.

The media release says the base of the Okanagan Gondola will be a "family-friendly, resort-inspired space" featuring an amphitheatre, a cafe, a farmers and artisan market, as well as restaurants and cafes and shops.

"The project will provide multiple opportunities for local community engagement," the release says.

Of the 285 acres site, only 275 acres will be built on, with the rest remaining untouched.

"We really love connecting iconic destinations that utilize the natural beauty of the landscape as the main attraction," Ridge North America president Paul Deutsch said in the release. "The location of this project is beautiful, showcasing the Okanagan valleys, beautiful rolling hill landscapes and majestic views of Kalamalka Lake."

More information can be found here.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Ben Bulmer or call (250) 309-5230 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.