Kamloops is known for some pretty spectacular hiking trails. There are hiking trails for every kind of hiker. Nice and easy flat trails for an evening stroll, intermediate trails for those looking to get a cardio workout and difficult trails for the more adventurous soul. If you are visiting Kamloops, these five hikes are a great way to see the city from different viewpoints and take in the beautiful scenery from every angle. If you live in Kamloops, these hikes never get boring and can (and should) be done many times!
Bridal Veil Falls in Peterson Creek
Peterson Creek Park offers many different trails for all levels with some breathtaking viewpoints on the elevated trails. One of the most popular is the trail to Bridal Veil Falls which for the most part is an easy 30-40 minute hike but the last part can get quite rugged and rocky so you should be prepared to hike at your own risk. Depending on the water levels, you may have to cross the creek to keep hiking to the falls but keep your camera handy because there are some beautiful photo opportunities throughout the hike.
Also in Peterson Creek is the entrance to the Xget’tem Trail. The City of Kamloops recently invested $2.7 million dollars in addition to a #1 million dollar grant they received from the Ministry of Transportation to build a 1.7 kilometer pathway from Sahali to downtown Kamloops. The Xget’tem Trail is complete with lighting and rest areas and provides walkers and cyclists with a safe pathway.
The Tower Trail at Kenna Cartwright
The Tower Trail is an easy 3.4 kilometer hike that is perfect for families and can be accomplished by young children. The trail is dog-friendly so feel free to bring your pooch along with you. This trail has a moderate incline all the way to the lookout so be prepared to take breaks if needed along the way. In the summer it is completely exposed so bring water for a more enjoyable experience. The views from the lookout at the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort!
The Perimeter Trail at Rosehill Park
This 1.5 kilometer trail around the Kamloops Disc Golf Course is a very easy hike with beautiful views of the Thompson Valley. This trail can be difficult to follow sometimes because of the many trails going off to launch pads for the Disc Golf Course but as long as you stay to the main trail on the perimeter you should have no trouble at all. It is dog-friendly as long as dogs are leashed and you will often see families out enjoying the walk and the views. There is a beautiful viewpoint on the western side of the trail with a carved out bench to take a rest and enjoy the scenery. Just make sure to keep your eyes out for frisbees!
Juniper – Rosehill Ridge Trail
There are many options for this trail and the shortest one is an easy 2 kilometer hike out along the ridge. You can enter this trail at the yellow gate from the S-curve on Rosehill Road where there are cement barriers and then take your first left onto a single track trail to venture out to the ridge. Or you can remain on the wide double track that follows the pipeline all the way to Juniper. The single track along Rosehill Ridge provides some stunning views of the valley and has a few inclines to get your heart rate pumping. If you follow the loop it will link back to the double track along the pipeline. This trail is great for running and it is dog-friendly but keep your eyes peeled for bears as they regularly frequent the neighbourhood of Rosehill.
Battle Bluff
This 4.8 kilometer hike is the most difficult trail on this list but rewards you with the most spectacular views at the top. The trail will take roughly 1.5 hours and begins with an easy double track through the trees but then quickly becomes a steep, rocky single track the rest of the way. The majority of the trail is exposed so be sure to bring water, especially in the summer and just take your time along the way if needed. The trail is dog friendly and is possible to do with kids but make sure to keep them close when you arrive at the Bluffs because there are cliffs all around with steep drop-offs.
No matter which trail you pick in Kamloops you will be rewarded with beautiful scenery and a memorable experience. If you are looking for an outdoor lifestyle, Kamloops is the place for you with endless opportunities and activities and beautiful sunshine all year long.
Andrew Karpiak is a Real Estate Agent in the Kamloops area including Tobiano and Sun Peaks. He was born and raised in Kamloops and proud to call the city home while raising his own family.
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