SC SH 2020
Words by Steve Fennell
Recreational boating is one of the few outdoor pastimes that allow you to really get away from it all. Rise at the break of dawn to fish for rainbow trout, escape the crowds for a day on the water, or simply find a quiet anchorage to stay for longer periods. This and whole lot more can be enjoyed on Shuswap Lake and in the surrounding area, whether it’s just you and a loved one or your whole family.
The Shuswap is a special place not only in the present, but throughout its rich past. A storied history that’s well documented, this is where the Secwepemc First Nations first settled well before it evolved into a thriving fur trading route; it’s the site where the Hudson Bay Company launched its first steamer; and is even the historic home where the Canadian Pacific Railway was completed in the late 1800s. Although much has changed, the silence and serene beauty of Lake Shuswap pretty much remains the same.
Tige Boats
Wakeboard, swim and ski - the Shuswap offers plenty of activity.
Why Visit “The Shu”
Despite its rural location amongst BC’s forest-rich region, the lake is expansive and enables you to disappear for a while. It has a total length of 89 km (55 mi) and maximum width of 5 km (3.1 mi), allowing you to comfortably meander along at idle – or full speed – past and to rustic scenery. It’s also as deep as 161 m (528 ft) and combined with its surface area of approximately 310 km2 (120 mi²) with more than 400 km (250 mi) of shoreline, Shuswap Lake is perfect for recreational boats of all sizes.
Interest in Shuswap Lake is immediately piqued after a first look on a map. Shaped like a backwards K, the lake consists of four “arms,” each one leading in different and diverse directions. Although scattered with a series of communities, none of the communities ever overshadow its natural shoreline. Actually, many of the communities could be practically considered a part of nature given the community passion for being environmentally conscious and adhering to best green practices.
CVS
Many scenic areas are found throughout Shuswap Lake.
Shuswap Communities and More
Many commercial centres such as Salmon Arm, Sorrento, and Sicamous all conveniently provide quick stops for food, beverages, gear and essential boating supplies. However, when it comes to escaping the crowds for some quiet time, many of the Provincial Parks on Shuswap Lake promise seclusion.
It goes without saying that the community of Sicamous is known as “The Houseboat Capital of Canada” since it’s common to see a myriad of houseboats cruising at idle or moored along the enticing beaches. It’s an enjoyable experience and even if you’re not a seasoned boater, the houseboat rental companies have qualified staff who will lend their knowledge and expertise.
Castlefin
Boating in the Shuswap allows you to get “away from it all.”
To further assist with your adventure, the pages of our 2020 SunCruiser Shuswap edition create a comprehensive yet simple reference guide to key destinations and attractions. For your safety and convenience, we also provide detailed maps, listed services, hazards, and even marked (and unmarked) obstructions below the water’s surface in full detail.
Finding that perfect anchorage or early morning fishing spot always means looking forward to activity as early as late May, throughout the summer and into the fall. If you require more details to plan your trip and to successfully get away from it all, be sure to visit us at www.sunscruisermedia.com or www.shuswaptourism.ca.
As you read this, there is a very good chance we are still living with Covid-19. Please adhere to the guidelines of local health authorities as you enjoy the great outdoors with family, friends and neighbours.
Safe Boating!
Dale Simonson
Kayaking is just one of the pastimes to enjoy on the lake.
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