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Darren Robinson Photography
Salmon Arm at a Glance
The Salmon Arm Wharf is one of the longest, curved inland wharves in North America and is a major landmark.
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Darren Robinson Photography
Salmon Arm at a Glance
Downtown Salmon Arm
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Darren Robinson Photography
Salmon Arm at a Glance
Birdwatching along the waterfront
By Steve Fennell, SunCruiser Boating
Located along the shores of Shuswap Lake, the city of Salmon Arm is an ideal getaway for recreational boaters. It’s a multi-faceted destination where you can dine, shop, and stay in relaxing accommodations, while still being within an ear-shot of the many natural attractions the region is known for. With easy water access and the several services available along the waterfront, whatever it is that you desire in Salmon Arm, chances are you will find it.
Get on the Water
To access the water with your boat, there’s the Salmon Arm Boat Launch with another option available at Canoe Beach, located just 10 minutes from the city. This is where you can enjoy its sand beach and the many amenities on its expansive grounds. You can also launch your boat at Herald Provincial Park – about 25 minutes from Salmon Arm - featuring another sand beach plus a large campground, hiking trails, and a day-use area.
Once on the water, cruise the meandering routes of Shuswap Lake to discover a quiet bay or cove to drop anchor and perhaps enjoy an afternoon of paddle boarding and other water activities. While you can’t possibly explore the 80-plus kilometre lake in one day, its best to inquire at the local marinas (or ask other boaters) about the best places to visit. If you prefer to leave your boat in a slip during your stay, it's wise to book in advance. Even though there are many marinas in the Shuswap moorage can be difficult to find during peak season.
The Sights of Salmon Arm
The Salmon Arm Wharf is the longest, curved inland wooden wharf in North America and is a major landmark. The estuary in the bay, one of only two protected estuaries in BC, is a popular spot to stroll and observe local wildlife or admire the views across the lake. The public dock at the end of the wharf is an added bonus for boaters as it provides easy access to the downtown city centre. Marine Park is also home to Wednesdays on the Wharf music series throughout the summer.
Downtown Salmon Arm is where you can discover unique shops and several dining options, in addition to observing the works of local and national artists at The Salmon Arm Art Gallery. To get a real sense of the activity, visit any one of Salmon Arm’s summer events. The sounds of the region can be enjoyed during the popular Roots and Blues Music Festival in August, the Salmon Arm Fair in September, or the annual Dragon Boat Festival in July.
While the list of what to do and see in Salmon Arm goes on and on, its an area of the Shuswap where you can customize your vacation and enjoy the boating lifestyle to the fullest.
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