Shuswap Lake is a laid-back outdoor playground located in a spectacular landscape marked by one of the most distinctive and popular lakes in British Columbia. Situated in the North Okanagan district and surrounded by forested rolling hills and farmland, the four arms of Shuswap Lake are dotted with charming small towns and friendly outposts focused on relaxation and recreation. Aquatic enthusiasts will enjoy popular watersports such as swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing, while hiking, cycling, and culinary tours are active and entertaining land-based pursuits in the region.

From browsing farm-fresh produce and artisanal cheeses at seasonal markets to savouring wine, craft beer, and spirits at the growing number of vintners, distillers, and craft brewmasters in the region, Shuswap Lake’s culinary scene is bursting with local flavours and taste experiences. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax lakeside, hike to lookouts with majestic valley views, or discover the locavore scene in one of the most fertile agricultural areas of British Columbia, Shuswap Lake provides memorable adventures all year round.

Visitors can fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and connect to flights arriving into Kamloops International Airport (YKA). The Shuswap Lake region is accessible by car from Vancouver via Highway 1 and the Coquihalla (Highway 5) in approximately 5 hours. In winter, your vehicle or rental car must be equipped with winter tires, or those with a M+S (mud and snow) designation. Parts of the highway are high alpine roads and can be subject to snowstorms, fog, and black ice during the winter months. This region is best accessed by vehicle, as other transportation methods are limited. Once you’re in Shuswap Lake, many places and attractions are accessible by watercraft or houseboat.

Shuswap Lake is a very popular area during the summer months. Peak times are between May and September, when the weather is hot and sunny in North Okanagan. During these months, the beaches and waters offer a welcome escape from the heat — teeming with swimmers, paddle boarders, kayakers, and water skiers. The fall is a wonderful time to visit Shuswap Lake, as holiday traffic dies down and days remain warm. The annual return of salmon to Adams River is an autumnal highlight. The winter months are quiet, with colder temperatures that require warm layers and outerwear. The Shuswap Lake area is home to a burgeoning wine industry and abundant farmland, ideal for enjoying autumnal harvest tours and wine festivals in the region.

Adams River Run

The annual return of sockeye salmon to spawn in the Adams River at Shuswap Lake is an unforgettable natural spectacle. Every fall from September to October, millions of salmon journey upstream to the Adams River to lay their eggs in the shallow gravel of the river bottom. You can watch this phenomenon from a viewing platform at Tsútswecw (Roderick Haig-Brown) Provincial Park.

Shuswap Lake

The four arms of the large Shuswap Lake system are one of the most popular bodies of fresh water in British Columbia. Home to 14 species of fish, including various salmon species, the lake is a fishing mecca and immensely popular for boating and water sports. The lake’s sandy beaches are crowded in summer as visitors enjoy swimming in its warm waters.

Sicamous Lookout

Shuswap Lake region has more than 100 hiking trails, and one of the most scenic is Sicamous Lookout. It’s accessible from Sicamous by driving or hiking along an active forestry road; you’ll be treated to outstanding views of the valley below, including Shuswap and Mara Lakes. The lookout is actually an old wooden hang-gliding platform; exercise caution around the edges.