· CA

Kamloops

Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada

Kamloops: Where Desert Sun Meets Mountain Adventure Nestled where the North and South Thompson rivers meet in the heart of British Columbia, Kamloops (pronounced *Kam-loops*) offers visitors a unique blend of rugged beau…

#Outdoor activities#Scenic views#Hiking trails#Riverfront#Historic sites

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kamloops.

Top Hotels in Kamloops

Top Flights to Kamloops

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kamloops.

Tours

Explore Riverside Park

Visit Riverside Park for a serene walk along the Thompson River with stunning views and peaceful surroundings.

Visit Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park

Learn about the rich history and culture of the Secwepemc people at this heritage museum with exhibits and archaeological sites.

Discover McArthur Island Park

Explore McArthur Island Park, a beautiful spot for leisurely walks, bird watching, and enjoying nature.

Kamloops Art Gallery Visit

Explore contemporary Canadian art at the Kamloops Art Gallery, featuring exhibitions and educational programs.

Shopping

Aberdeen Mall Shopping

Shop for a wide range of products from fashion to electronics at Aberdeen Mall, the largest shopping center in Kamloops.

Kamloops Farmers' Market

Experience local produce and artisanal products at the Kamloops Farmers’ Market, a vibrant hub for local farmers and crafters.

Outdoor

Hiking at Kenna Cartwright Park

Challenge yourself with a hike at the expansive Kenna Cartwright Park, offering panoramic views of Kamloops.

Biking at Kamloops Bike Ranch

Enjoy thrilling biking trails suitable for different skill levels at Kamloops Bike Ranch, a premier destination for mountain bikers.

Sun Peaks Resort

Visit Sun Peaks Resort, a year-round mountain resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.

Catching the Views at Harper Mountain

Harper Mountain offers incredible views and outdoor activities, including skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kamloops.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada is '103,000'.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Kamloops

Jan

-1°-7°

Feb

3°-5°

Mar

9°-2°

Apr

15°2°

May

20°7°

Jun

24°11°

Jul

29°14°

Aug

28°13°

Sep

22°8°

Oct

14°3°

Nov

5°-2°

Dec

0°-6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kamloops.

What people love

Kamloops, located in British Columbia, Canada, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a popular destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Kamloops include:

Outdoor Recreation: Kamloops is known for its abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, golfing, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Wine Tasting: Kamloops is part of the Thompson Valley wine region, which is known for its award-winning wineries and vineyards. Travelers can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and dining experiences at the local wineries, offering a unique and relaxing way to explore the area.
Cultural Attractions: Kamloops has a rich history and vibrant cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and cultural events that showcase the city's heritage and artistic community. Travelers can visit places like the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park to learn about the indigenous culture of the region.
Wildlife Viewing: Kamloops is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, deer, and bears. Travelers can go on wildlife viewing tours or explore the nearby provincial parks and conservation areas to see these animals in their natural habitats.
Family-Friendly Activities: Kamloops offers a variety of family-friendly activities, such as water parks, amusement parks, and interactive museums, making it a great destination for travelers with children.

Overall, Kamloops has something to offer for every type of traveler, whether you're looking to relax in nature, explore the local culture, or enjoy outdoor adventures.

(Note: This information is based on general knowledge and may be subject to change. It's always a good idea to check for the latest updates and specific details before planning your trip to Kamloops.)

What to know

Kamloops, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a beautiful destination with many attractions and outdoor activities. However, like any other place, there are some cons to traveling to Kamloops. Here are some potential drawbacks:

Weather: Kamloops experiences hot and dry summers, which can be uncomfortable for some travelers, especially those not used to high temperatures. Additionally, the winters can be cold and snowy, which may limit outdoor activities during that time of year.
Limited public transportation: Kamloops is not known for its extensive public transportation system, so getting around the city and surrounding areas may be challenging without a car.
Wildfires: Due to its dry climate, Kamloops is prone to wildfires during the summer months. This can impact air quality and outdoor activities, and travelers may need to be prepared for potential evacuation alerts.
Limited nightlife: Kamloops is not known for its vibrant nightlife scene, so travelers looking for a bustling evening entertainment may find the options limited.
Distance from major cities: Kamloops is located quite far from major cities like Vancouver and Calgary, so getting to and from the city may require a longer drive or a connecting flight.

Overall, while Kamloops offers many attractions and outdoor activities, travelers should be aware of these potential cons before planning their trip.

Kamloops is a city located in south-central British Columbia, Canada, at the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers. It has a rich history that spans thousands of years, primarily influenced by the indigenous peoples of the region and later European settlers.

Indigenous History

The area now known as Kamloops has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous peoples, particularly the Secwépemc (Shuswap) Nation. The Secwépemc people have a deep connection to the land, and their presence is integral to the region's history. They lived in semi-permanent villages and engaged in fishing, hunting, and gathering.

European Exploration and Settlement

1811: Explorer David Thompson passed through the area. Thompson was a noted mapmaker and explorer for the North West Company, one of the major fur trading companies.
1812: The first European settlement was established by the North West Company as a fur trading post, called Fort Kamloops. The fort was strategically located at the confluence of the two rivers.
1821: The Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) took over the fort following the merger with the North West Company. The HBC played a significant role in the early European settlement and economic development of Kamloops.

Growth and Development

Late 19th Century: The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) was pivotal for Kamloops. It connected Kamloops to the rest of Canada, facilitating growth and making it a transportation hub.
1893: Kamloops was incorporated as a city, marking its official establishment as a municipal entity.

20th Century

World War I and II: Kamloops, like many Canadian cities, contributed to the war efforts by providing men and materials. The city honored its veterans with memorials and events post-wars.
Mid-20th Century: The forestry industry became a significant economic driver for Kamloops, alongside agriculture and ranching.

Significant Events and Figures

Tk’emlúps Residential School: The Kamloops Indian Residential School, one of many in Canada, operated from 1890 to 1978. In recent history, it became a focal point for discussions on reconciliation after the discovery of unmarked graves on the site in 2021.
Pierre-Étienne Fortier: A prominent early settler and politician who contributed to the development of the region.

Modern Kamloops

Today, Kamloops is known as the "Tournament Capital of Canada," hosting numerous sporting events. It has a vibrant arts scene, numerous outdoor activities, and serves as a gateway to the interior of British Columbia.

Important Landmarks

Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park: Offers insights into the history and culture of the Secwépemc people.
Kamloops Heritage Railway: Preserves the city's railway history with vintage locomotives and trains.
Riverside Park: A central park along the river, offering recreational facilities and a venue for community events.
Kamloops Art Gallery: A prominent cultural institution that showcases contemporary and historical art.

Kamloops’s rich history reflects a blend of indigenous heritage and European influence, shaping it into a dynamic city with a diverse cultural landscape.