Hikes in North Thompson Valley
Activities in North Thompson Valley
The North Thompson Valley is a gorgeous stretch of rugged and wild terrain within British Columbia’s central interior that expands southward from the Monashee and Cariboo mountains towards Kamloops. Dissected by the imposing North Thompson River - the large tributary of the Fraser River - the landscape in this beautiful region is relatively untouched, yet easily accessible, making it the ideal place to explore and reconnect with nature, no matter the season.
Hiking trails in the North Thompson Valley vary greatly and range from easy city walks to rugged backcountry adventures, and everything in between. Vast stretches of grassland offer the chance to roam the countryside under the great blue sky, while forested hikes further to the north will allow you to explore serene woodland landscapes that are home to some of the most dramatic and beautiful waterfalls that can be found in Canada. Regardless of your age, skill level, or the type of adventure you are after, you can rest assured that a trip to the North Thompson Valley will produce amazing experiences and lasting memories that you won’t soon forget.
The 10 Most Stunning Hikes In the North Thompson Valley
The variety of breathtaking terrain and wild nature of the landscapes within the North Thompson Valley make it an ideal destination for exploring the rugged central interior of British Columbia. Vast swathes of rolling grassland hills, stretches of arid terrain, gorgeous meadows, and dramatic mountain peaks all characterize this nearly untouched region and make it the perfect place to set out on a backcountry adventure. Whether you are looking to access the challenging mountain trails to the north or the family-friendly riverside walks around Kamloops, you will be sure to find your perfect hiking adventure in the North Thompson Valley. Check out this fantastic list of hiking routes that we’ve put together below:
- Stake Lake Cartwheel Trail: This short trail in McConnell Lake Provincial Park will lead you around a charming lake for beautiful views of the water and surrounding woodland landscape. The laidback terrain of the forests and grassland meadows make this quick adventure perfect for a family excursion.
- Margaret Falls Upper Loop: Located in Herald Provincial Park, the Margaret Falls Upper Loop is a wonderful forest hike that will take you to a viewpoint looking onto a stunning waterfall. There are a few steep stretches on this hike, but for the most part it is suitable for hikers of every skill level.
- Battle Bluff Trail: This awesome trail in Kamloops will lead you uphill to a rocky lookout with views that sweep across Kamloops Lake and the surrounding valley landscape. With a moderate overall distance and well-maintained paths that are dog-friendly, this hike is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
- Lac du Bois: A stunning hike through Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park, this trail will lead you through rolling hills and picturesque meadows for amazing lakeside views with a mountain backdrop. This is another dog-friendly trail in the Kamloops area, meaning you won’t need to leave any family members behind when out exploring the area.
- McConnell Lake Trail: A quick adventure just south of Kamloops, the McConnell Lake Trail is a family-friendly experience that will take you through a charming woodland landscape to reach a wonderful lakeside setting.
- Lundbom Lake Loop: This intermediate length trail can be found within the Sugarloaf Mountain Bike Recreation Site and takes you through a beautiful grassland landscape characterized by scenic rolling hills. The easy to navigate terrain and access to countless other routes in the area make this awesome hike suitable for those of beginner and experienced skill levels.
- Rivers Trail: This 12.9 km out-and-back trail near Kamloops will lead you along the Thompson River, providing beautiful views of nearby mountains and the surrounding valley landscape. Bordering the Tranquille Wildlife Management Area, this features some pleasant terrain that is suitable for hikers of nearly every skill level.
- Deep Lake Hike: Another short trail in the Kamloops area, the Deep Lake Hike will take you to a charming lakeside setting with beautiful views of the city. Don’t underestimate this hike, as initial portions of the trail are quite steep and are not suitable for everyone.
- Cinnamon Ridge Trail: Offering beautiful views of nearby hoodoo rock formations, the Cinnamon Ridge Trail is a 1.8 km hike that can be found just west of Kamloops. For more experienced adventurers that want a more challenging route, the trail continues uphill through a stretch of steep and rugged terrain.
- Gibraltar Rock: This short 3.2 km trail will take you to the lookout at Gibraltar Rock for some stunning views overlooking Paul Lake and the surrounding valley landscape. Be bear aware for this adventure, as a nearby campsite often attracts bears that are in search of an easy food source.
When is the Best Time to Hike in the North Thompson Valley?
While the North Thompson Valley is a great destination for year-round exploration, some seasons will definitely provide a more comfortable experience than others when out hiking the trails in the region. As the valley lies in the immediate rainshadow of the Coast Mountains and Cascade Range, summer here will produce some of the hottest weather in Canada, with temperatures often above the 40 ℃ threshold. As such, the most pleasant time of year to explore this beautiful region by foot is in the spring and fall seasons, when temperatures are warm and weather is mild.
Other Outdoor Activities in the North Thompson Valley
In addition to hiking, the diverse landscape of the North Thompson Valley offers access to a number of other popular outdoor activities throughout the various seasons. Fishing, mountain biking, golfing, horseback riding, and watersports like white water rafting, kayaking and canoeing are all popular activities during the summer. For those looking to explore the region during the winter, skiing (both cross-country and downhill), snowshoeing, and dog sledding are all popular activities. No matter what season or activity you are after, the North Thompson Valley offers a wealth of possibilities to enjoy its breathtaking landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions About the North Thompson Valley
What is the Thompson Valley?
Centred around the hub city of Kamloops, the Thompson Valley can be found in the central interior of British Columbia along the North and South Thompson Rivers.
What type of fish are in the North Thompson River?
As a major tributary of the Fraser River, the North Thompson River is home to a variety of migratory fish species, as well as others that are confined to its waters year-round. Fish species that can be found here are Salmon (Sockeye, Chinook, Coho, Pink), Sturgeon, Rainbow Trout, Dolly Varden, and Mountain Whitefish.
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Displaying 29 of 29 routes
Route guides for Hiking in North Thompson Valley
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Margaret Falls Upper Loop Trail Route Guide
The Margaret Falls Upper Loop is a 3.4mi hiking circuit in Herald Provincial Park that climbs uphill through the forest along Reinecker Creek and offers some amazing views of the falls. Along the trail, you will experience a scenic forest setting filled with mature trees and other types of vegetation, as well as some amazing views of Margaret Falls and Shuswap Lake. This route is made up of wide paths that are well maintained, so while some stretches are a bit steep, they are easily manageable for hikers of most skill levels.
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Lac du Bois Hike Route Guide
The Lac du Bois Trail follows a 6.4mi out-and-back hiking route in Kamloops, BC, that will allow you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the terrain that makes up the Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park. Along the trail, you will have views of beautiful rolling hills, charming grassland meadows, the picturesque lake, and rugged mountains in the backdrop. In addition to being a family-friendly hike, this trail is also dog-friendly, providing the perfect opportunity for your canine companions to run free through the open grassland terrain.
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Lundbom Lake Loop Route Guide
The Lundbom Lake Loop is a 9.4mi hiking circuit within the Sugarloaf Mountain Bike Trail Recreation Site that sets out from the edge of the lake and traverses a beautiful grassland landscape filled with rolling hills. With easily traversable terrain, breathtaking scenery, and access to numerous other routes, this is a fantastic hiking option for both casual and experienced hikers alike. This trail is popular with hikers, mountain bike enthusiasts, and horseback riders, so make sure to pay attention when out on the trail and provide enough space for others to pass.
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Deep Lake Hike Route Guide
The Deep Lake Hike is a 2.1mi hiking circuit in Kamloops, BC, that will take you through the grassland terrain to a small hillside lake. Along the trail, you will have some amazing views looking over the city and surrounding mountains, and of course the picturesque lake that is framed by the green grass and blue sky above. While the trail is fairly easy overall, the initial stretch is quite steep and may limit mobility for some hikers.
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Battle Bluff Trail Route Guide
The Battle Bluff Trail is a 3.3mi out-and-back hiking route in Kamloops, BC that will take you uphill to a rocky bluff with some amazing views overlooking Kamloops Lake and the North Thompson Valley. Although the route does have some steep sections, overall, it is a pleasant hike with well-maintained trails that make it perfect for a family-friendly excursion with some scenic views. This trail is also dog-friendly, meaning that you won’t need to leave your canine companions at home while the rest of the family is out exploring the beautiful outdoors.
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Rivers Trail Route Guide
The Rivers Trail is a 8.0mi out-and-back hiking route in Kamloops, BC, that follows closely alongside the Thompson River to provide scenic views of the mountainous landscape. The hike borders the Tranquille Wildlife Management Area to the west and passes through the narrow tract of land between the river and the airport, reaching its terminus at Crestline Park. This route features flat, well-maintained trails that are suitable for hikers of all skill levels, including dogs.
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McGillivray Lake Trail Route Guide
The McGillivray Lake Trail is an 5.3mi lollipop hiking route that sets out from the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort and heads through a beautiful forest to a charming woodland lake. Along the hike, you will experience a tranquil forest setting and some amazing views of the surrounding mountains. Although there are several intersecting paths, this trail is well marked from start to finish. Follow the blue markers on the way to the lake and the orange markers on the way back to avoid getting lost. You will be required to purchase a hiking pass to utilize the trails in this area.
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Scatchard Mountain Switchbacks Route Guide
The Scatchard Mountain Switchbacks follow a 4.1mi out-and-back hiking route in Chase, BC, that can be used year-round due to its popularity with hikers, cross-country skiers, and horseback riders. Along the trail, you will climb up the hillside via a series of switchbacks and experience some amazingly scenic views overlooking Chase, Little Shuswap Lake, and the mountains behind. Although there is a bit of an incline, this trail is great for hikers of almost every skill level.
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Tom Moore Trail Route Guide
The Tom Moore Trail is a 3.0mi lollipop hiking route in Kamloops, BC, that will take you uphill through the Peterson Creek Nature Park for some spectacular views of the surrounding valley landscape. Along the route, you will work your way up the Tom Moore Trail before breaking off on the downhill portion of the hike utilizing the Billy Miner Trail. This trail is perfect for a family outing and is even dog-friendly, meaning you won’t need to leave your canine friend at home while you are out exploring the trails.
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Kenna Cartwright Ridge Trail Route Guide
The Kenna Cartwright Ridge Trail is a 3.2mi lollipop hiking route in Kamloops, BC that will take you uphill along the ridge for some spectacular views looking out over the city and surrounding valley landscape. Although the trail is able to be used year-round, it can be quite difficult due to the inclines that become icy/muddy in the winter and spring seasons. If you are looking to complete the hike at these times, make sure to bring microspikes and hiking poles. In addition to being a great trail for family hiking, the entire park is also an off-leash dog area.
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Hull Hill Trail Route Guide
The Hull Hill Trail is a 4.8mi out-and-back hiking route south of Kamloops, BC, that meanders through the forest along a well-kept dirt road. While out on the hike, you will experience a serene woodland atmosphere and even catch a few glimpses of mountain peaks poking out about the tree canopy. The trail is dog off-leash friendly; however, there are free-ranging cattle in the area, so make sure to keep an eye on your canine companions to avoid any incidents.
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Stake Lake to Ponderosa Trail Route Guide
The Stake Lake to Ponderosa Trail is a 2.8mi hiking circuit south of Kamloops that winds through the wonderfully forested terrain of McConnell Lake Provincial Park and the Stake Lake Recreation Site. Along the hike, you will be able to relax in the peaceful woodland setting as you work your way around the edges of small ponds and the much larger shores of Stake Lake. Remember to bring a trail map or GPS for this hike, as there are several intersecting trails that may make navigation challenging.
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Mara Mountain Cliffs South Hike Route Guide
The Mara Mountain Cliffs South is a tough lollipop hiking route in Kamloops that climbs uphill through Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park to reach the summit of Mara Mountain. From there, hikers will have a breathtaking view that sweeps across the Thompson River Valley from Kamloops Lake in the west to the city in the east. This hike is located within cougar country, so make sure to bring bear spray and make plenty of noise while out on the trail.
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Mara Loop Trail Route Guide
The Mara Loop Trail is a scenic hiking circuit in Kamloops, BC, that winds through the breathtaking terrain of Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park. Along the trail, you will make your way up a gentle incline along the rolling green hills within the park for some amazing views overlooking the Thompson Valley. With well-maintained trails and amazing views of the surrounding landscape, this hike is a perfect option for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
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Dewdrop Range Trail Route Guide
The Dewdrop Range Trail is a 9.2mi out-and-back hiking route near Kamloops that climbs uphill into Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park for some amazing views overlooking the Thompson Valley. This route features a large elevation gain and is fairly steep in certain areas, so make sure to wear proper hiking footwear and bring extra gear such as microspikes if you are looking to complete this hike in the shoulder seasons. Additionally, hikers should bring bear spray, as cougars and bears are sometimes spotted in the area.
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Hoodoo Mara Mountain Connector Trail Route Guide
The Hoodoo Mara Mountain Connector is a challenging 4.7mi lollipop hiking route within Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park that will take up a steep, rocky route to reach viewpoints at two different peaks on Mara Mountain. Along the trail, you will experience some amazing views of the nearby hoodoo rock formations before climbing further uphill for an amazing view stretching out across the valley. The upper portions of this hike are very steep and exposed, so make sure to wear proper hiking footwear and take your time on the way to the summits.
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Lac du Bois Tower Loop Route Guide
The Lac du Bois Tower Loop is a 4.0mi hiking circuit northwest of Kamloops that will allow you to experience the beauty of the rolling grassland landscape within Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park. Along the trail, you will loop through the countryside around a hilltop tower surrounded by rolling green hills and the vast expanse of the open blue sky. This is a great hike with gentle inclines that is suitable for casual and experienced hikers alike.
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Cinnamon Ridge Trail Route Guide
The Cinnamon Ridge Trail is a 1.1mi lollipop hiking route in Kamloops that will take you uphill for some scenic views of nearby hoodoo rock formations and the valley below. While the route is short, it is also fairly steep in some parts and will require you to watch your footing. If you are looking for a longer and more difficult version of this hike, continue up along Cinnamon Ridge for some even more amazing views of the hoodoo rock formations that are set further back from the trailhead.
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Sun Peaks Hike Route Guide
The Sun Peaks Hike is a 4.6mi lollipop route at the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort that will take you uphill along the ski slopes to experience some amazing views across the mountainous landscape. Timing this hike for the late summer months will produce even more stellar views as the grassy meadows covering the slopes will be bursting with wildflowers in full bloom. To hike in this area, you will need a hiking pass that you can purchase from the resort.
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Old Mills Trail Route Guide
The Old Mills Trail is a 2.8mi out-and-back hiking route northeast of Kamloops that will take you uphill through the forest for some scenic views looking out over Heffley Lake. Made up of well-maintained trails with ample signage and a good amount of shade, this route is perfect for casual and experienced hikers alike. If you are looking for a longer hike in the area, try utilizing the adjacent network of trails to hike further up embleton mountain for even better views.
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Gibraltar Rock from Paul Lake Hike Route Guide
The Gibraltar Rock from Paul Lake Hike is a 3.8mi out-and-back route north of Kamloops, BC, that will take you to the top of the distinctive rock formation for amazing views across the woodland landscape. Along the trail, you will make your way through slightly overgrown sections of bush and under the shady canopy of the trees to the viewpoint overlooking Paul Lake. With a gradual incline and easy-to-navigate route, this hike is perfect for casual adventurers and weekend warriors.
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Gibraltar Rock via Bluff Trail Route Guide
Hiking to Gibraltar Rock via the Bluff Trail follows a 2.5mi out-and-back trail that sets out from the Paul Lake Campground and climbs uphill to a scenic lookout point with views of the surrounding area. Along the trail, hikers will gradually work their way through the thick forest canopy before making the short but steep climb up to the rocky Bluff for an amazing sightline over Paul Lake. Remember to bring bear spray and make plenty of noise along the trail, as bears are often seen on and around the trail.
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Gibraltar Rock Route Guide
The trek to Gibraltar Rock follows a 2.0mi out-and-back trail that sets out from the Paul Lake Beach area and heads west to the lookout at the summit of Gibraltar Rock. Once there, you will be greeted with an amazing view overlooking the surrounding woodland valley and the calm waters of Paul Lake nestled within it. Remember to bring bear spray along for this hike, as the animals are frequently seen in the vicinity of the trail due to its proximity to the campsite.
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Raft Peak Trail Route Guide
The Raft Peak Trail is a 4.0mi out-and-back hiking route northeast of Clearwater, BC, that will take you up a steep ridgeline for some amazing views over the surrounding mountains and the North Thompson Valley. Along the trail, you will hike through a nice stretch of meadow and light forest cover before making the steep climb up the rocky, technical ridge. Although this is a challenging hike, your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the green valley below and Wells Gray Provincial Park to the north.
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Embleton Mountain Loop Route Guide
The Embleton Mountain Loop is an 5.2mi lollipop hiking route northeast of Kamloops that climbs uphill through a beautiful forest to several lookouts with views across the valley and the calm waters of Heffley Lake below. Along the trail, you will make your way under the shade of the tree canopy and across several bubbling streams to a scenic viewpoint with a small hilltop picnic area and gazebo. The well-maintained nature of the trail and fairly easy terrain make this a great day-hike for both casual and experienced hikers.
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Doc Findlay Loop Route Guide
The Doc Findlay Loop is a 1.6mi hiking circuit in Kamloops that passes through the Kenna Cartwright Nature Park for some amazing views overlooking Kamloops and the North Thompson Valley. The trail is made up of very well-maintained and easy to navigate dirt paths that cross forested and exposed terrain, making them ideal for hikers of all skill levels. Although children will have no problem traversing the landscape, some areas of the trail are uneven and narrow, which might make mobility a challenge for families with strollers.
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Altitude Trail Route Guide
The Altitude Trail is a 5.6mi lollipop hiking route at the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort that will allow you to explore the heavily wooded slopes in the area and visit the calm waters of Tod Lake. Along the trail, you will experience some scenic views across the valley and the beautiful subalpine setting around the lake with Tod Mountain in the near distance. Hikers will need to utilize the Sun Burst Chairlift or extend their hike up the mountainside in order to reach the trailhead. You will be required to purchase a hiking pass to utilize the trails in this area.
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Sun Peaks Loop Trail Route Guide
The Sun Peaks Loop Trail is a 5.6mi lollipop hiking route at the Sun Peaks Mountain Resort that will take you through the forest and into the backcountry to visit Tod Lake. Along the trail, you will hike from the top of the ski runs and through the forest to reach the lake at the foot of Tod Mountain. To reach the trailhead, you will need to either utilize the chairlift or make use of the many trails up the hillside; however, this will extend your hike by several kilometres. You will be required to purchase a hiking pass to utilize the trails in this area.
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Armour Mountain Trail Route Guide
The Armour Mountain Trail is a 3.9mi lollipop hiking route that will take you into the hills above Barrier for an amazing view of the town and the surrounding valley landscape. This trail largely follows an old ATV path that is well-maintained, making for a pleasant uphill hike to the summit of the mountain. Remember to bring bear spray and make plenty of noise while on the trail, as bears are often seen in the area.
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