Winter Hiking
Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park
Dylan Sherrard
Venture outside into a wonderland of sparkling snow. Milder winter temperatures and plenty of sunshine make Kamloops an ideal year-round hiking destination. The crunch of snow underfoot, the silence of a snowy landscape, and the artistry of frost-covered sagebrush make winter wanders oh so special. Dress in layers, wear waterproof footwear and pack a pair of ice cleats for a safe and fun adventure in the winterscapes of the Thompson Valley. Lace-up your winter boots and go for that hike. You won’t regret it!
Hit the hiking trails this winter
Strap on snowshoes or hiking boots and explore a world of frozen landscapes and rugged beauty. From casual walks to heart-pumping hikes with breathtaking views, Kamloops delivers on winter hiking options.
Riverside Park & Pioneer Park
Enchanting in the winter with public art on display, the walk along Waterfront Park in Downtown Kamloops is a 2.8-km (1.7-mi) out-and-back paved trail connecting Riverside Park and Pioneer Park. Be sure to make your way to the pier to see where the North and South Thompson Rivers meet.
Aviation Way
As part of the River’s Trail system, Aviation Way is an out-and-back trail that runs parallel to the Kamloops Airport and can vary in length and time, depending on your preference. Enjoy views of the Thompson River and Cinnamon Ridge from flat, southerly-facing trail. Dogs are permitted off-leash on this trail as well.
Xget’tem’ Trail
The newest trail in Kamloops, Xget’tem’ (pronounced hawk-tum) means “deep valley” in the Secwépemc language. This trail, located in Peterson Creek Nature Park, is a 3.4-km (2.1-mi) round-trip paved path that climbs steadily from the downtown entrance. It is cleared of snow in the winter and lit by LED lights at night.
West Highlands Park
Featuring sweeping views of the Thompson Valley, the West Highlands Park is a 1.8-km (1-mi) paved loop, through a repurposed golf course. This trail is a community favourite, with solar lights for those dark mornings and evenings and plenty of benches. This path is maintained year round, offering a safe route any time.
Grasslands Trail
Overlooking expansive vistas of Thompson Valley, downtown Kamloops, and Mt. Peter and Paul, the Grasslands Trail in Peterson Creek Nature Park is a short 1.1-km (0.5-mi) walk on a wide, packed gravel pathway. Dogs are permitted off-leash on the trail. Note: the trail can get slippery with use.
Tower Trail
The Tower Trail, one of 44 trails in Kenna Cartwright Nature Park, is a steady 1.8-km (1.1-mi) climb, made tougher in the winter with a layer of snow. The extra effort is worth it for the breathtaking views of the Thompson Valley that await you at the top. The trails within the park are not maintained during the winter and are best done during daylight hours.
Benchlands Trail
The Benchlands Trail in the Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park, located just a 15-minute drive east of Kamloops on Highway 1, is an easy 3-km (1.8-mi) walk through sagebrush to silt bluffs overlooking the South Thompson River.
