Hello Fellow Hikers!

Are you a visitor to Kamloops, wishing to hit all the great hiking spots; or are you a local that is wanting to fall in love withKamloops all over again? Well for both options, you have come to the right place! This blog highlights three extraordinary hikes that can be found within city limits! All locations showcase a unique view of the city, and are all within 10-15 minutes from each other. Let us start this out right with a little tour! Watch the video down below to preview the 3 hiking spots we are going on today: Aviation way, Kenna Cartwright, and Peterson Creek Park! Let’s go Hiking!

 

Let’s Go Hiking in Kamloops!

WOW! That was quite the adventure! The landscape in Kamloops hosts some of the best escapes in the city! 

 

Important Notes When Hiking in Kamloops

If you are a professional hiker you may already know that It is very important to have a basic knowledge about the activity, area, weather, wildlife, and cultural awareness. The following is a guide to the specific hikes outlined in this blog! 

  • Kamloops is situated on the traditional territory of the tk’emlups te secwepemc people, and we as visitors are to honour and respect the land and everything living on it. 
  • In the Kamloops region, there are several animals to watch out for, like: Lynx, Cougars, Bears, Coyotes, Deers, snakes, and even sometimes racoons during the warmer winters.
  • Weather can be unpredictable at times, and it is always important to check the forecast before you go on a hike. Once you have all the information you need, make sure you wear the appropriate clothing! 
  • Research the hike and all trails before hiking it. It is best to be prepared rather than getting lost. 
  • Bring water, and snacks! You never know how long you will be hiking for!
  • And; Stick to the trail!

 

Now let’s check out these hikes more in detail!

 

Aviation Way

 

This hike is the easiest among the other hikes, and one may argue that it is more of a walk! This hike is rated an easy as there is no incline at all. You can find this hike by the airport, hence, it being called “Aviation way”. You start the walk at the airport tower and end at the airport strip, a total of 6 kilometres there and back. There is the option to go on the paved walking path or take and alternate route through the trees alongside the beautiful Thompson River. In the fall and spring, when the river is low, the sandbank stretches for miles! a  great location to soak up some sun! If you are a dog owner, or just a person that loves the energetic creatures, this area is an off leash zone! Just be sure to clean up after the POOch! I have walked on this trail many times and each time is a new experience! So if you are looking for an easygoing hike by the infamous Thompson River bank, this is it!

 

Kenna Cartwright

Kenna Cartwright is the hardest hike out of the three hikes chosen! This is because of the large incline! You can find this hike located up by Differin, Five minutes from Aberdeen mall. Since this is a park, there are many different trails available to go on. Trails that are less intense, and ones that go straight up to the top! The hike as previewed in the video is the main hiking entrance/trail that takes you straight to the top of the hill. Although the hike may feel difficult and tiring, when you get to the top you will be quick to realize that the view is very rewarding. The peak of Kenna Cartwright gives the hiker a 180 view of the whole city! So if you are more of an intermediate to advanced hiker that is interested in a great view, this is the hike for you!

 

Peterson Creek Park

Peterson Creek Park is located in the home of downtown Kamloops. I bet you’re wondering how a whole park is located in the literal heart of Kamloops? Well, just behind the Kamloops law courts, you will find your answer. This hike can be whatever you want it to be. If you want to see the waterfall (previewed in the video) that is a low inclination easy to moderate hike, or a view of the city. On the other hand, if you were looking for more of a challenge, this park offers that too! Truly, this park gives hikers the best of both worlds! The main attractions of this park is both the creek’s waterfall, of which can be dangerous to get to; or the view of downtown Kamloops / North Shore, of which has a huge inclination over a shorter time and distance. So if you are a hiker that likes to go with the flow and hike based on how you’re feeling, you should probably check this location out STAT!

 

So long! It is Time to Adventure!

No matter your hiking level, there is a hike waiting for you in Kamloops city limits! See you on the trails hiker!