Darren Robinson Shuswap Tourism
It’s worth visiting the Sicamous LookOut with the great view of Sicamous, Shuswap Lake and Mara Lake.
Words by Steve Fennell
One of the most appealing aspects of a region like the Shuswap is there is always a pastime to take pleasure in. Fish one day, lounge on a sandy beach the next and then take off to a quiet anchorage for an afternoon on the weekend. You can also treat yourself at any one of the local resorts, go for a scenic drive, and enjoy a great dining experience.
Of the many areas to explore, Mara Lake and Mara Provincial Park are popular destinations in the Shuswap. There are a variety of resorts, full-service campgrounds, not to mention many services and marinas in Sicamous – the immediate area’s largest commercial centre. It’s also known as the ‘houseboat capital of Canada,’ and the luxurious crafts cruising the waters and the local houseboat rental companies attest to this.
Although there are public launch ramps throughout this area of the Shuswap, Mara Lake can be accessed by boat via Sicamous Narrows, on the east side of Shuswap Lake, north of Salmon Arm. Although not as large as its neighbouring body of water, Mara Lake does provide great boating opportunities to further explore the region.
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Paddle boarding – and other water sports - are enjoyed here all season.
With a surface area of approximately 20 sq km (about 8 mi), the lake is ideal for wakeboarding and other watersports. Fishing is also popular for rainbow/lake trout, dolly varden, and kokanee. Although downriggers are not required to be successful, it’s not a bad idea to use one considering many of the larger species go into deeper, cooler water during the summer months. For a chance of success, locals recommend using Apex trolling lures, Fishinator Plugs or Polar Bear bucktails.
If fishing isn’t your game, a variety of scenic bays and inlets make for great anchorages, and there are a variety of beaches to lounge the afternoon away. Or, get your ‘paddle on’ as kayakers and SUP enthusiasts are commonly seen enjoying its calm, inland waters.
Mara Provincial Park
One beach worth visiting is the one along the shores of Mara Provincial Park. Located on the southeast side of the Lake (or via Hwy 97A by vehicle), the park is a hub of activity. Although it’s only 5.9 ha (15 ac) and not as large as Cinnemousun Narrows or Shuswap Lake provincial parks, Mara serves as a great day-use area for families and recreational boaters.
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The shores of Mara Lake
There’s a well-maintained public boat launch, shaded picnic facilities, and is the ideal place to drop anchor or beach your boat along its waterfront. The park is also pet-friendly, has drinking water available and washroom facilities. However, overnight mooring is not permitted, but campgrounds, resorts and cottage rentals are close by.
Although a lot of time can be spent on the water, the area has a variety of attractions on land. Your kids will love The Enchanted Forest, located about 40 km (25 mi) from Sicamous, which is home to old-growth forests, 350-plus handcrafted figurines, a wetland boardwalk, and self-guided row boat tours. Hiking is also popular throughout this part of the Shuswap and trails range from easy to difficult.
One other area worth visiting is the Sicamous LookOut. While not a typical ‘hiking trail’ but a well-maintained logging road that’s accessible by most vehicles, the lookout is located on Hwy 1, just east of the Hwy 97A junction, and is a hang gliding platform that rests hundreds of feet above the valley floor with outstanding views of Shuswap and Mara lakes.
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The waterfront of Sicamous.
To further connect with nature be sure to check out the following trails:
Gorge Creek Falls: A moderate 1.9 km (1.2 mi) walking/hiking loop located about 25 km (16 mi) from Sicamous, this trail is ideal for all ages and offers great views of the falls. (*Ed note – at the time of publication the trail was closed due to safety concerns so it’s best to check access before visiting.)
The Lizard: Great for snowshoeing in the winter with excellent backcountry hiking in the summer, this is a 1.6 km (.9 mi) moderate trail that climbs in elevation to 133 m (436 ft). It’s also popular among mountain bike enthusiasts.
Hyde Mountain Lookout: Although difficult, this trail has a length of about 8.4 km (one way) and plenty of switchbacks, but the effort will be worth it – the view of the region is spectacular. Be sure to watch for downed trees and of course, many species of wildlife.
Sicamous Riverfront Nature Trail: Located next to Shuswap Lake, this is an easy 3.7 km (2.3 mi) trail that leads along the Eagle River with many lookout points of the water.
With many natural attractions in the area, the community of Sicamous is also worth checking out. Located along Sicamous Narrows, this Shuswap community has a variety of dining options – some are right on the water with more options along Main St, which is about a ten-minute stroll from a few of the local marinas. This is where you’ll also find a number of unique boutiques and shops, as well as a grocery store and pharmacy.
Although an entire vacation could just be spent exploring this side of the Shuswap, many of the other areas like Scotch Creek, Salmon Arm, and Chase, to name a few, are all worthwhile to visit. Either way, you’re bound to find the outdoor excitement you crave in this part of BC’s interior.