June 23, 2021 by Michelle McAleese

Top 5 Things To Do in Kamloops This Summer

Woman admiring the view of Kamloops from her hike.

Jess Polley

Rediscover and reconnect with friends and family in the wide-open spaces of Kamloops. Immerse within nature and find uncrowded trails right in the city or the open water on surrounding lakes. Here are the top 5 things to do in Kamloops this summer.

Hiking

Hiking in Kamloops offers a diverse landscape that is different on each trail area. Choose from wide-open grasslands, ponderosa pine forests, chiseled hoodoos, deep gorges, and fragrant sagebrush. Kenna Cartwright Nature Park is the largest city park in BC with more than 40 km of hiking trails that feature panoramic views of Kamloops and the Thompson Valley below. For a more difficult trail, hike Battle Bluff and be rewarded with an impeccable view of Kamloops Lake. Want to capture the view from the top? Check out these six hikes ideal for photographers and hikers.

Biking

From beginner cross-country to intermediate downhill trails, Kamloops' mountain biking paradise is suitable for all riding levels. For downhill enthusiasts, check out Nate's at Harper Mountain, or the Fist Full of Dollars jump line at the Kamloops Bike Ranch where pro riders like Graham Agassiz grew up. Ride the Pineview Valley Trail Network or bike amongst the sagebrush in Kenna Cartwright Nature Park or Lac du Bois Grasslands. If you're wanting resort riding, visit the Sun Peaks Bike Park with 2,000 feet of lift-access vertical riding, just a 45-minute drive from Kamloops..

Golfing

Hit the greens and enjoy the wide-open spaces at one of 10 Kamloops golf courses. Tee-off with Kamloops Lake in the background at award-winning Tobiano Golf, or golf amongst the hoodoos and South Thompson River at Rivershore Estates & Golf Links. Each course offers a unique play that any golfer will admire. Our friends at Golf Kamloops can assist with any bookings or inquiries for future trip planning.

Fishing

Cast a line on trophy still water at 100+ lakes within a one-hour drive of Kamloops. Lakes are stocked by Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and the most commonly caught fish is the Rainbow Trout. Choose to fish off the dock at Paul Lake Provincial Park, Edith Lake, or Lac le Jeune Provincial Park if you don’t have your own boat.

Paddling

Grab your stand-up paddleboard or kayak and hit the water at Paul Lake Provincial Park or Lac le Jeune Provincial Park. Rent a stand-up paddleboard with a lesson from Paddle Surfit, and glide across the crystal-clear water of Heffley Lake – just 30 minutes north of Kamloops. If you're looking for a fast-paced adventure, visit Bruker Marina on Kamloops Lake. They offer rentals for pontoon boats, jet skis, and more.

Discounts & Deals

When visiting Kamloops and the Thompson-Okanagan region, please be a responsible visitor. Check out our travel deals page for the best packages and discounts from accommodation and activity providers.

Get more ideas on things to do in Kamloops for a getaway.

Be Prepared

With the ongoing wildfire situation in British Columbia, we encourage you to be prepared, book ahead, and stay informed with the following resources:

DriveBC.ca
Air Quality Health Index
BCWildfire.ca
Tourism Kamloops Weather and Webcams