Discover Kamloops: Where the rivers meet

By Chloe Sjuberg

For a vacation destination that offers the perfect blend of natural surroundings and vibrant culture, look no further than Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s Interior.

Kamloops is nestled in the beautiful Thompson Valley, where the North Thompson and South Thompson rivers join to become the Thompson River. In fact, the city’s name comes from that of the original Secwépemc settlement there: Tk’emlúps, meaning “the meeting of the rivers.”

The meeting of the rivers in this valley means there’s a lot of scenic beauty here to enjoy. And in a more symbolic sense, Kamloops is a meeting point for the many different elements that make up its unique identity: year-round outdoor adventures, a lively arts scene, cosy boutiques and eateries, and a friendly and welcoming community. They all come together to make Kamloops a fantastic place to visit.

Soak up the culture

Arts and culture abound in Kamloops. Check out the latest exhibitions at the nationally renowned Kamloops Art Gallery, or find a new favourite piece at the Kamloops Courthouse Gallery, run by a non-profit artist cooperative showcasing local artists’ work.

For some art out of doors, head to the Back Alley Art Gallery – a self-guided tour of 30 murals downtown that capture the city’s culture and history in eclectic art styles.

Other cultural hot spots include the Kamloops Museum and Archives; the Western Canada Theatre, for live entertainment; and the Kamloops Film Society’s Paramount Theatre, which screens everything from the latest film festival hits to throwback family favourites like The Princess Bride.

Get outside

Kamloops is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. In the city and surrounding area, there are 10 championship golf courses, more than 100 freshwater lakes, and more than 80 parks.

In Tsútswecw (pronounced “choo-chwek”) Provincial Park, you’ll find the Story Trail, an interactive and interpretive two-kilometre loop. Use your smartphone to scan the QR codes posted along the trail, and you’ll hear the voices of local Indigenous youth sharing their language and knowledge of the local plants, wildlife and landscape.

The Rivers Trail is a 40-kilometre trail system that passes through downtown along the shores of the North and South Thompson rivers. It’s mostly flat – perfect for a gentle stroll or bike ride. One segment of the trail loops around McArthur Island Park, where you can spot wild ducks and marmots, or stop off for a round of mini golf or disc golf.

Hiking is a year-round activity in Kamloops due to its mild, sunny winters. The city clears the snow on many local trails, but for those that aren’t cleared, you can strap on snowshoes or cross-country skis to explore the bright, snowy vistas.

And, of course, with the rivers and the lakes, there are plenty of opportunities for adventures on the water: boat, swim, paddle, or simply bask at the beach.

Taste the city

After exploring the outdoors, kick back with a drink from one of Kamloops’ craft breweries, cideries, distilleries or wineries. Kamloops is gaining a reputation as a new and exciting B.C. wine destination – check out the Kamloops Wine Trail for friendly, relaxed tastings at local wineries Monte Creek, Privato and Sagewood.

For a unique eating experience, head to the Yew Street Food Hall, where you’ll find several artisanal food vendors under one roof, offering everything from vegan street food to fresh pasta and gelato. Kamloops also has plenty of modern restaurants highlighting local seasonal ingredients and international cuisine options from Mexican to Jamaican.

Reach new heights at Sun Peaks

Another premier destination for year-round outdoor adventures is Sun Peaks, a ski resort located just under an hour from Kamloops. You can either drive up for the day from Kamloops, or stay at one of the many hotels and chalets at the resort.

With 13 chair lifts taking you up three peaks (Tod, Sundance and Morrisey), Sun Peaks is one of the largest ski areas in Canada, second only to Whistler Blackcomb. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, there’s also ice skating, tubing, horse-drawn sleigh rides and even dog sled rides.

In Sun Peaks’ European-style ski-through village, you can enjoy après-ski vibes at local restaurants and browse the shops for outdoor gear or artisan gifts. Or, pamper yourself with a massage or a grounding yoga session at one of the village’s spas and wellness studios.

In the summer, there’s plenty to do too: go hiking through alpine wildflower meadows, shred the mountain bike trails, or hit the links at B.C.’s highest-elevation golf course.

Learn more about where to eat, stay and explore in Kamloops at tourismkamloops.com.

– Reprinted with permission from SOAR Magazine, the in-flight magazine of Pacific Coastal Airlines

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