Kootenay Rockies Tourism Mitch Winton Arrow Lakes Adventures
Landing along a sandy shore is just one of the pastimes in the region.
Words by Steve Fennell
After a few years of adhering to COVID-19 restrictions and living ‘within a bubble,’ many enthusiasts are once again getting out on the water and the Shuswap awaits this summer. It’s still advisable to be cautious and safe, but planning some much-needed time away is the plan for many boaters and time almost stands still here.
Bright sunshine and royal-blue skies span over sparkling clean, cool water, which is the centre stage for fishing, cruising, mooring, and of course, houseboating, and all combine to draw countless visitors to the region every summer.
While slowly idling or cruising on Lake Shuswap, you’ll experience the scenic maze of its four arms that - from a topographical view - form a backwards “K” and consist of the popular communities of Salmon Arm, Sorrento, Scotch Creek, and Seymour Arm. Each one is a gateway to the water with many boating-friendly destinations and communities in between.
Darren Robinson Shuswap Tourism
An overview of Sicamous, the houseboat capital of Canada.
One of these destinations is Sicamous, known as the Houseboat Capital of Canada as there are more than 200 houseboats available for rent from several businesses. They range in lengths and capacities with several amenities that are designed to make your Lake Shuswap vacation relaxing and memorable. Not sure where to go? The knowledgeable staff at the houseboat rental companies will lend their expert advice on the lake to ensure a fulfilling time on the water.
The lake is just as exciting on your own boat. There are numerous provincial parks - many accessible only by boat - as well as prime locations to fish, cruise, and enjoy watersports such as tubing, wakeboarding and swimming. At the end of the day, land your boat on a sand beach (or anchor mere metres from it) and set up camp for the night. Boat launches are also easily accessible and many friendly marinas can serve as a home base during your visit.
However, there’s more to the area than the water. It’s hard to drive here without seeing signs of wineries, golf courses, campgrounds, and unique local businesses. While the region has cooler temps compared to other nearby wine regions, each family-run vineyard creates unique flavours. Tantalize your taste buds with such offerings as merlots, ortegas, rieslings, and more. Many have also won national awards.
Cobalt Boats
Watersports can be enjoyed here all season.
If you’re serious about golf, you’ll want to find room in your tow vehicle or your boat for your clubs. With the many choices to practise your game, you can play a different course every day within a 40 km (25 mi) radius.
You’ll want to put your handicap to test at the Salmon Arm Golf Club Hyde Mountain on Mara Lake Golf Course, which is known as one of the most scenic courses in BC, or the Quaaout Lodge and Spa and Talking Rock Golf Resort, which was voted the number one Member Favourite by the BC Players Association. Book a tee time for the morning then plan an afternoon cruising the lake - vacations here don’t get much better. Dining and accommodations also abound and there are many to choose from in the Shu.
However, it’s the lake that will keep calling you back. Cinnemousun Narrows Provincial Park is one of the hottest spots on the lake, which is ideally situated where the four arms connect. With sheltered areas, a nice sand beach, and campground, it’s an area you’ll want to check out.
Destination BC Andrew Strain
You can always find seclusion with every outing on the lake.
To escape some of the crowds (as the area gets busy with boaters in the summer) cruise north from Cinnemousun Narrows to the unpopulated area of Anstey Arm or Seymour Arm. These regions are where you can experience Anstey-Hunakwa and Shuswap Lake Marine provincial parks, and you’ll want to experience the sandy shores of Silver Beach Provincial Park.
When it comes to safe navigation - whether you’re on a houseboat rental or your own boat - always use up-to-date charts and current GPS mapping software to ensure safe cruising. Our 2022 SunCruiser-Shuswap offers many quick references to the area’s destinations, attractions, as well as underwater obstructions and places to avoid with detailed maps and descriptions. It will also provide some great ideas of where to visit to further enhance your Lake Shuswap experience.
Known as one of the most popular cottage and boating communities in the province, the Shu will be an experience unlike any other and a great way to unwind and enjoy your summer to the fullest extent.