Kamloops in the summer is where golden grasslands meet cool lakes, scenic backroads lead to sweeping viewpoints, and long sunny days invite visitors to slow down and stay outside. With its warm, desert-like climate and easy access to outdoor recreation, Kamloops is one of British Columbia’s most underrated summer travel destinations.

Perfect for adventure seekers, road-trippers, and food lovers alike, Kamloops offers a balanced mix of outdoor experiences, local flavour, and relaxed Interior BC charm.

Get Outside: Adventure Comes Standard

Hiking With a View

Kamloops features a wide range of hiking trails, from riverside walks to rugged grassland climbs. Visitors can hike independently or join a guided experience with Adventuring Into Life, which offers local knowledge, route planning, and safety support.

For those looking for some off-road adventures, one of the most memorable summer hiking areas is the Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area. This expansive landscape showcases Kamloops’ unique semi-arid environment, with rolling hills, hoodoos, wildflowers, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Highlights include:

  • Garden of the Trolls: A whimsical rocky landscape featuring a 2.9 km out-and-back trail that is perfect for beginners and families with young children. Playful rock formations and open terrain make this an accessible and engaging hike.
  • Battle Bluff: A rewarding climb to one of the best scenic viewpoints above Kamloops with full lake and valley views.
  • Tranquille Slot Canyons: A short but extremely steep hike requires a high level of fitness and comfort with exposure. There is no cell phone service here, absolute bliss, but take your GPS messenger.
  • Cinnamon Ridge and Mara Loop: Wide-open grassland views and quieter trails ideal for experienced hikers.
  • Dewdrop Trail: A lesser-known option for peaceful exploration away from crowds.

For visitors interested in a scenic backroad loop, Tranquille Criss Creek Road connects many of these areas and rejoins the highway just past Savona.

Biking Capital of the Interior

Kamloops has become a premier mountain biking destination in British Columbia. The Kamloops Bike Ranch, the largest municipal bike park in Canada, offers flow trails, jump lines, and technical features suitable for beginners through advanced riders.

Guided mountain biking experiences are available through Adventuring Into Life, with bike rentals included, making it easy for visitors to ride with confidence. For alpine terrain and cooler temperatures, nearby Sun Peaks Resort provides lift-accessed biking with spectacular mountain views.

Paddle, Float, and Cool Off

Kamloops’ lakes and rivers offer a refreshing way to experience summer in the Interior. Kamloops Water Sport Rentals provides paddleboard and kayak rentals with convenient drop-off options, allowing guests to complete circular routes without returning to their starting point.

Popular nearby lake destinations accessed by dirt roads include Adams Lake and Johnson Lake. Johnson Lake is especially popular for its clear water, vibrant colour, and scenic shoreline.

Wildlife and Nature Experiences

BC Wildlife Park

The BC Wildlife Park is an animal rehabilitation centre dedicated to rescuing and caring for injured wildlife with the goal of re-release whenever possible. Animals that remain on site are those that cannot safely return to the wild. It offers an educational and meaningful experience and is one of the best places in the region to see iconic Canadian wildlife such as grizzly bears, cougars, and the rare spirit bear.

Scenic Backroads and Hidden Gems

Kamloops is an excellent base for scenic drives and gravel road exploration.

  • Deadman Vidette Road: Located between Kamloops and Cache Creek, this route travels through a dramatic, desert-like landscape with hoodoos, rare basalt columns, and a nearby waterfall hike. Although the area was affected by wildfires several years ago, it remains visually striking and well worth exploring.
  • Chase, Falkland, and Salmon Arm Backroads: Rolling farmland, ranches, and small rural communities with unique stops including the Donkey Refuge and the Llama Sanctuary.
  • Westsyde Road to Barriere: A scenic drive following the North Thompson River past farms, forests, and eagle nests. The route passes both a winery and a cidery and includes the McLure Ferry, a small free cable ferry that adds a memorable experience.
  • Greenstone Mountain Forestry Lookout: A dirt road drive followed by a short hike leads to this panoramic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding valleys and grasslands.

Sip and Savour: Kamloops Food and Drink Scene

Thompson Valley Wineries

The Thompson Valley’s warm climate and long growing season support a growing wine region that is ideal for summer tastings.

  • Monte Creek Winery: Known for its stunning river valley location, expansive patio, and approachable wines, Monte Creek Winery is a must-visit for wine lovers exploring Kamloops.
  • Privato Vineyard and Winery: A boutique estate winery offering elegant small-lot wines in a peaceful garden setting.
  • Sagewood Winery: A newer winery highlighting the diversity and potential of wine production in the Kamloops area.

Local Eats and Drinks

Kamloops’ food and drink scene reflects its laid-back atmosphere and access to fresh Interior BC ingredients. Summer is the best time to enjoy patios, craft beverages, and locally owned restaurants. Popular local breweries include:

  • Red Collar Brewing: One of Kamloops’ most beloved breweries, known for small-batch, experimental beers and a loyal local following.
  • Bright Eye Brewing: A community-focused brewery offering classic styles, seasonal releases, and a welcoming downtown tasting room.
  • Iron Road Brewing: Strong railway theme, this brewery features easy-drinking beers and a spacious outdoor patio.

Notable food spots to add to a Kamloops summer itinerary include:

  • Hello Toast: A local favourite for brunch, known for creative breakfast dishes and quality coffee.
  • The Noble Pig Brewhouse: A popular spot combining house-brewed beer with elevated pub fare and a lively patio scene.
  • Cordo Resto and Bar: A refined dining experience featuring Italian-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Together, these spots make Kamloops an excellent destination for culinary tourism, blending casual comfort with high-quality local food and drink.

Why Summer in Kamloops Just Works

Kamloops offers visitors space, sunshine, and variety. It is possible to hike in the morning, paddle in the afternoon, enjoy local wine in the evening, and still watch the sunset over the grasslands before dinner.

With its unique landscapes, vibrant outdoor culture, and growing food and drink scene, Kamloops stands out as a summer destination in British Columbia that rewards both first-time visitors and returning travellers.