Single Itineary
It Might Not Be A Literal Loop, But This Lake Is Worth Doing A Circuit On.
Located in the beautiful Thompson Valley in the interior of British Columbia, Kamloops Lake is the ideal place for paddleboarders, canoeists, and kayakers, especially in the summer months when the cool waters beckon while the sun is shining and temperatures in the semi-arid valley hover around 30°C.
There is a lot of Indigenous history in this area and paddling tours are offered by Moccasin Trails that go into detail about the vast heritage of the region. It is also recommended paddlers visit the unique Painted Bluffs Provincial park on the north shore of the lake, which can only be accessed by water. There you’ll find distinctive multi-coloured rocks and soils on an igneous intrusion that form a stunning rainbow of colour.
Kamloops Lake stretches west from the interior city of Kamloops for 29 kilometres and is 1.6 kilometres at its widest point. It’s surrounded by what’s referred to as a semi-arid desert, meaning there are plenty of rolling hills of bunch grass and sagebrush in between the irrigated grounds of the ranches and wineries. In certain sections it’s also surrounded by cliffs topped by eagle aeries and clay hoodoos, which are towering structures of rock left over from prehistoric times when the lake levels were much higher. The lake is home to rainbow trout and paddlers can expect to see a variety of birdlife, deer, otters, as well as a high concentration of California bighorn sheep.
Gear & Safety
Paddlers should carry the usual safety gear and because the Kamloops region can be very hot in the summer months, extra drinking water, sunscreen, and UV clothing should also be on hand. Also, paddlers need to be aware that winds in the region can blow up quite suddenly.
Kamloops Lake Itinerary
Paddle pros
Here are the experts who will help perfect your paddling trip.
Bruker Marina & Beach Club
Bruker Marina & Beach Club is a great spot to either go boating or enjoy some family time on the beach.
Learn MoreKamloops Canoe & Kayak Club
Kamloops Canoe & Kayak Club offers many different programs while being as inclusive and accessible as possible, so that everyone can enjoy what they have to offer.
Learn MoreKamloops Water Sport Rental
Kamloops Water Sport Rentals offers three different locations. From paddle boards to pedal kayaks and canoes they have something that will work for everyone!
Learn MoreKnouff Lake Resort
Knouff Lake Wilderness Resort offers rustic cabins, RV & tenting sites, boat rentals, and a range of activities in a beautiful Canadian setting.
Learn MoreMoccasin Trails
In order to truly learn about our culture we felt the only way was to touch, smell, see, hear, and feel it. Our journey started hundreds of years ago but your journey will start right
now with us at Moccasin Trails.
Paddle Surfit
Located on Heffley Lake in Kamloops BC, Paddle Surfit is the perfect place to relax and escape the city with SUP and kayak rentals.
Learn MoreTrue Outdoors
True Outdoors is a local equipment store that carries a variety of outdoor gear for different watersports activities.
Learn MoreExplore more in this community.
Every corner of BC has something unique to offer. From freshwater lakes on Vancouver Island to rafting on the whitewater of Squamish, you will never find a shortage of amazing paddling.