Exploring Kamloops for the Adventure Seekers: Kelowna to Kamloops Day Trip

Hiking at Kenna Cartwright Park

Kenna Cartwright Park, located on the southwestern edge of Kamloops, British Columbia, is the province's largest municipal park, encompassing approximately 800 hectares of Mount Dufferin. The park offers over 55 kilometres of nature trails that meander through grasslands, hills, valleys, and forests of Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir. The park's extensive trail network caters to hikers of all skill levels, with trails ranging from easy loops to more challenging climbs. Trail difficulty ratings, mainly influenced by elevation change, are indicated on the park map and at trail junctions. Notable trails include the Tower Trail, a 3.4-kilometre round trip with a 145-meter elevation gain, offering panoramic views of Kamloops and the surrounding landscape. Another popular route is the Ridge Trail, a 3.2-mile lollipop loop that ascends along the ridge, providing spectacular views over the city and valley.

Kenna Cartwright Park is a multi-use area, welcoming walkers, hikers, dog walkers, mountain bikers, and families throughout all four seasons. The park is designated as an off-leash area for dogs, making it a favourite among pet owners. Amenities within the park include multiple parking lots, picnic sites, restrooms, and shelters, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for visitors.

Access to the park is available through several entrances, including the Hillside Drive Entrance, Pacific Way Entrance, Home Depot Entrance, and Bunker Road Entrance, each providing access to different trailheads and areas of the park. Whether you're seeking a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or a scenic spot to enjoy nature, Kenna Cartwright Park offers a diverse and rewarding outdoor experience in the Kamloops region.​

Mountain Biking at Kamloops Bike Ranch

Kamloops is renowned as a premier destination for mountain biking, offering a diverse array of trails that cater to riders of all skill levels. The city's unique terrain, shaped by ancient lava flows and volcanic debris, provides an ideal landscape for year-round riding.

One of the standout features of Kamloops' mountain biking scene is the Kamloops Bike Ranch, Canada's largest municipal bike park. Spanning 26 hectares, the park offers a variety of trails, from beginner-friendly paths to advanced jump lines, making it a hub for both local riders and visiting enthusiasts. ​

Beyond the Bike Ranch, Kamloops boasts several other notable riding areas. The Pineview Valley Trail Network features approximately 50 kilometres of trails, offering a mix of flowy singletrack and technical descents. Lac du Bois Grasslands provides a more mellow riding experience, with gentle green and blue trails perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride.

Kamloops is known for its vast mountain biking network, with over 270 trails from beginner to expert. To learn more about the various mountain biking paths and networks throughout Kamloops, check out the Kamloops.com biking section, which details the different routes and difficulty levels of the most popular biking paths.

Kayaking on the South Thompson River

Kayaking on the Thompson River in Kamloops offers a dynamic experience for paddlers of all skill levels. The South Thompson River, in particular, is known for its gentle currents and scenic beauty, making it ideal for leisurely paddling. Paddlers can enjoy views of the surrounding landscapes and may encounter local wildlife, such as eagles, swans, blue herons, beavers, and otters along the riverbanks.

Kamloops Water Sport Rentals provides various rental options, including single and tandem kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes. They operate from multiple locations, including 1446 River Street and Riverside Park in downtown Kamloops. Lifejackets and other safety equipment are also available for rent.

The Thompson Rivers Interior Paddle Sports Club (TRIPS) also offers recreational canoeing and marathon canoe racing programs. Based in Kamloops, TRIPS provides opportunities for paddlers to participate in weekly evening sessions, day trips, and clinics from April to October. The club's compound is located at Pioneer Park and includes a variety of canoes suitable for different paddling experiences.

Rock Climbing at Roche Lake

Roche Lake, situated approximately another 30 minutes southeast of Kamloops, is a premier destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. The crag features a 25-30 metre tall wall of blocky gneiss, offering around 30 single-pitch sport routes that cater to a range of skill levels, from 5.8 to 5.13a. The wall's structure includes numerous ledge features, making lead climbing on the easier routes potentially hazardous if climbing at your limit. However, the overhung sections provide 'sporty' climbing experiences for tackling routes graded 5.11 and above.

Access to Roche Lake is relatively straightforward, with parking near the crag. The approach involves a short hike through a quiet forest setting, adding to the area's appeal. Climbers should know that the crag is on Crown land with active ranch and forestry tenures; it's essential to watch out for livestock and heed all posted signs.

Dining in Kamloops

After a day of outdoor adventures in Kamloops, refuelling at one of the city's diverse dining establishments is necessary. Here are some notable options to consider:

The Noble Pig Brewhouse

As Kamloops' first microbrewery, The Noble Pig Brewhouse combines craft beer with inventive pub fare. Menu highlights include buffalo duck wings and fresh Bavarian pretzels with beer mustard. The relaxed setting and house-brewed beers provide a casual yet satisfying dining experience.​

Red Beard Café

On Tranquille Road, Red Beard Café offers a diverse menu with options like cornflake potato croquettes and Crazy Macaroni Alfredo. With over 15 beers and ciders on tap, it's an excellent spot for relaxing with a drink and a hearty meal.

Brownstone Restaurant

Located in a restored 1904 bank building, Brownstone Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu that emphasizes local ingredients. Dishes like elk meatloaf wrapped in bacon and dry-rubbed New York steak showcases the restaurant's quality commitment. The elegant atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploration.​

Peter's Pasta

Peter's Pasta is a family-run establishment since 1986 serving homemade Italian dishes in a cozy setting. Favourites include seafood alfredo and saffron-infused pasta, reflecting the restaurant's dedication to traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.​

Conclusion

A day trip from Kelowna to Kamloops offers adventure seekers various outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and exploring unique landscapes. With its diverse terrain and accessible amenities, Kamloops provides an ideal destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of British Columbia.