No matter your age or favourite outdoor pastime, the Shuswap has a memory waiting for you to discover and they are all right next door. Whether it’s a short hike to bask in the mist of a waterfall or something requiring a little more adventurous spirit, the Shuswap has you covered.
For those looking for an exciting trip into the area, you can experience countless outdoor adventures less than one hour out of Kamloops or continue on to discover more further down the road. Now we realize that with so many fabulous options for your Shuswap adventure, making a list can be daunting, so we made one for you. You’re welcome!
Chase Creek Falls
Chase Creek Falls is a little more difficult to access in the spring due to higher water levels, but by early summer it is an easy 10 minutes on a single trail suitable for all ages, including the family pet. It’s a nice break to stretch your legs on the way to the lake, or as a destination all on its own.
Getting there is quite simple. Turn north off Highway 1 on Coburn Street, then east onto Paquette Road. Drive to the trailhead parking at the end of the road. Chase Creek’s parking is adjacent to the Village of Chase Public Works yard on the right.
Cross the pedestrian underpass below the highway, which brings you to the base of Treetop Flyers zipline, and you're at the Chase Creek Falls — if you're lucky during the summer months, you may even see a zipliner soaring above your head!
Scatchard Mountain Switchbacks
This historic trail climbs to viewpoints overlooking Chase, the Chase Creek Canyon and further on to the Chase Creek Road. If you’re lucky you may even see bighorn sheep across the canyon on the slopes above Chase Creek.
Visit the Chase Museum or Chamber Visitor’s Centre for an interpretive pamphlet written by local historian, David Lepsoe. The hike is 3.5 kilometres one way and takes about an hour to complete. Hikers can start in the Safety Mart parking lot on the north side of Highway 1 in Chase and will be rewarded with stunning views of Little Shuswap Lake and the Village of Chase.
Hungry?
There are so many amazing places to eat in the Shuswap and we couldn’t possibly mention them all, but here are a few recommendations. If you like a good Thai peanut stir fry or amazing, homemade dumplings, check out J.J.’s Asian Cuisine on Bell Street. Craig’s Bakery offers lots of freshly baked breads, cakes and other tasty treats, and of course, let's not forget the soup.
If you prefer a more formal dining setting, you can’t beat Jack Sam's Restaurant at Quaaout Lodge with a menu that highlights local flavours and a beautiful view of Shuswap Lake.
The Pillar - Sk’elpakw
Pillar Lake is about an hour drive from Kamloops and you can get there through Falkland, Chase or Pritchard. The area has significant spiritual meaning to the local Indigenous people and the pristine lake is truly a peaceful escape into nature.
When you reach Pillar Lake, watch for the Pillar Lake Rec Site on the lakeside of the road. Pull off here and head down the road until you see a trail heading up to the right. Park here and follow the signs.
After a short, steep climb you’ll reach the Pillar. It really is quite something to see, 28 feet tall with an eight tonne rock balancing on top. As always, please remember to stay on the trail, respect the environment and be cautious.
The Scotch Creek Lookout - The view is worth the hike!
This 3.5 km round trip takes about 90 minutes and is perfect for hikers, mountain bikers and even snowshoers in the winter. On a clear day, Shuswap Lake and the highlands to the south, east and west are spread out in picture perfect panoramas, so make sure you have your camera all charged up.
It is not unusual to see plenty of wildlife including eagles soaring above the distant bluffs and remember, you are in bear country so be aware and stay prepared. This one is a bit tricky to find, so we recommend getting complete directions here.
Albas Falls - Celista Creek
This approximately three kilometre loop trail follows both sides of Celista Creek, up from the shores of Shuswap Lake, through a series of five impressive waterfalls and takes about an hour, there and back.
The falls and canyon area can be dangerous, so make sure you follow the signs and stay well away from the edge. This hike is considered moderate to difficult so proper hiking wear is recommended.
Memorial Park Beach
In all honesty, you could spend the entire day at Memorial Park Beach. If you’re looking for a great place for a dip in the lake, or you need the little ones to burn off some pent up energy in the splash park or on the playground, then look no further.
The red pier at Memorial Park Beach in Chase leads out to a swimming platform in the deep water of Little Shuswap Lake and of course there is a sandy beach and plenty of picnic tables, shady trees and a boat launch.
If you like music and you happen to there on a Tuesday evening in July or August, the bandstand hosts music on the lake at 7:00 p.m. A perfect way to wind down a fabulous adventure in the Shuswap.
Treetop Flyers Zipline
If you enjoy waterfalls, then you are going to love Treetop Flyers. Located in the village of Chase you’ll find the Shuswap’s most exciting family-friendly zipline adventure.
Not only will you get your heart racing ziplining above rushing waterfalls and steep canyon walls, but the professionally trained staff also provide an educational experience highlighting the stunning natural beauty, history and culture of the Shuswap area.
The Canyon Tour starts with a 100 meter dual line and continues into the canyon for an adventure that includes two more lines over Chase Creek followed by the 50 foot trust fall, giving you the Tom Petty ‘Free Falling’ experience.
You can also try the adrenaline-inducing Screaming Eagle Swing. The unique winch system lifts you and two friends 100 feet into the air where you pull the ripcord then drop, swing and repeat. Combine the swing with the trust fall and the zipline tour to create the Ultimate Adventure Package.
Treetop Flyers has been providing customers with zipline experiences over Chase Creek and through the canyon for almost a decade. Tours run from the middle of May to the end of September so don't hesitate to book an amazing experience that will create memories for years to come. For more information, booking details or any inquiries, contact Treetop Flyers here.
Treetop Flyers embraces every possible adventure in the Shuswap and their goal is to share that experience with everyone. They began offering ziplining and other adventures in 2010.
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