Discover Kamloops' Top Hiking Trails

Kamloops, a city of contrasts with its cold winters, hot summers, and semi-arid climate, has evolved from its ranching and Indigenous roots to a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city's landscape is now traversed by locals in hiking boots rather than cowboy boots, thanks to an abundance of trails within the city limits.

The scent of sagebrush after a summer rain is quintessentially Kamloops. The confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers defines the city, which was named by the Tk'emlups Te Secwepemc people. A stroll along the downtown Rivers Trail is a perfect start to any hiking adventure in the area.

1. Tower Trail, Kenna Cartwright Park

Kenna Cartwright Park, the largest municipal park in British Columbia, offers over 40 kilometers of trails. The Tower Trail, a 3.4-kilometer return hike with a 145-meter elevation gain, provides stunning views of Kamloops and its rivers. For a longer hike, combine it with the Ridge Trail and loop back on the Ponderosa Trail, a 5.1-kilometer route starting from the Hillside Road parking lot.

2. Tom Moore Loop Trail, Peterson Creek Park

The Tom Moore Loop Trail in Peterson Creek Park is a 4.8-kilometer moderate hike that takes you through grasslands and offers views of downtown and the Thompson Valley. The trail features switchbacks and a spur to Bridal Veil Falls.

3. Rim Loop Trail, Valleyview Nature Park

The Rim Loop Trail, a 2.5-kilometer easy hike, offers panoramic views of the South Thompson River and downtown Kamloops. The trailhead is located at the Valleyview Arena parking lot.

4. Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park Loop

This six-kilometer loop in Dallas-Barnhartvale Nature Park features a moderate 183-meter elevation gain and scenic river overlooks. The park also includes a wetland area and a picnic gazebo.

5. Mara Trail, Lac Du Bois Grasslands Protected Area

The Mara Trail is a 3.5-kilometer loop with a 221-meter elevation gain, offering views of the Thompson River and diverse ecological zones. Nearby, the 5.3-kilometer Battle Bluff Trail is another option for hikers.

6. Gibraltar Rock Trail, Paul Lake Provincial Park

The Gibraltar Rock Trail in Paul Lake Provincial Park is a 2.6-kilometer return hike with a 182-meter elevation gain, offering stunning views of Paul Lake.

7. McArthur Island Loop Trail, McArthur Island Park

The McArthur Island Loop Trail is a 3.4-kilometer paved path ideal for families and offers views of the Thompson River and the Gregson Butterfly Garden.

8. West Highlands Park Loop Trail

The West Highlands Park Loop is a 1.8-kilometer paved trail in a suburban area, perfect for an evening walk with views of the city lights.

9. McConnell Lake Trail, McConnell Lake Provincial Park

The McConnell Lake Trail is a 3.7-kilometer loop around a lake, suitable for summer or fall hikes and swimming.

10. Isobel Lake Interpretive Trail

The Isobel Lake Interpretive Trail is a 2.9-kilometer loop that's wheelchair and stroller friendly, offering lake views and educational signs about local flora and fauna.

Whether you're seeking a challenging hike or a leisurely walk, Kamloops' trails offer something for everyone, with stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems to explore.