Located on the shores of Shuswap Lake, the small town of Salmon Arm is an ideal place to explore the wilderness of southern British Columbia. The town lies at the foot of the Monashee Mountain range with its endless hiking, boating, horseback riding, and in winter, cross-country skiing. As its name suggests, Salmon Arm is a destination for anglers looking to reel in trout, kokanee, and chinook salmon. When you’re not out baitcasting for dinner or hiking the forested trails, the city of Salmon Arm has plenty to keep you busy, including some nice museums and galleries, plus a thriving farmers market. And if you’re looking for a day of sips and nibbles, the town sits in the agricultural heart of the region, close to many apple orchards, wineries, and dairy farms.

The nearest airport is Kelowna International Airport (YLW), a little over an hour south of Salmon Arm. A bus takes you from the airport into town in about 90 minutes, or you can rent a car and drive. From Kelowna’s city centre or Kamloops, regular buses to Salmon Arm take around two hours. Once in town getting around is easy as shuttle buses connecting major parts of the city are readily accessible and regularly scheduled. Salmon Arm also has more than 39 cycling routes and numerous bike rental options. Having your own vehicle will give you the freedom and convenience of exploring the area at your own pace.

The best time to book your Salmon Arm cabin rental is June through August when the weather is sunny, rainfall is moderate, and the town welcomes events like the annual roots and blues festival. Autumn brings cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking the Monashee Mountains to witness the changing foliage. Winters are cold and snowy, but there is no shortage of fun to be had; skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are all popular at this time. Winter FunFest happens in November and features games, parades, and bonfires. As the temperatures begin to warm in spring, trails can get muddy, so be sure to pack a good pair of boots.

Salmon Arm Wharf

This wooden fresh-water wharf was built over a century ago to give steam ships a way to bring goods to the region without running aground of the mudflats. Today the 134-metre-long pier is a birders paradise, where you can spot pelicans, eagles, and ospreys. Come at sunset to see the light bounce off of the lake and the surrounding mountain range.

Mount Ida Loop

Salmon Arm and its environs offer a wide range of hikes. Thirty minutes from town, you’ll find this epic hiking route to the top of Mt. Ida, a 32-kilometre loop that leads you 1,598 metres above sea level. Several viewpoints punctuate the trail with breathtaking scenery of mountains, forests, and waterfalls. For a less challenging romp through the woods, check out the Raven Trail.

Cinnemousun Narrows Provincial Park

This provincial park on the shore of Shuswap Lake an hour from town draws anglers with 19 species of fish, from burbot to whitefish. The lake is also a popular place to launch kayaks and canoes and explore hidden coves. Be aware that you could encounter bears and cougars, so make sure any food is stored in tightly sealed containers.