Shuswap Lake

Shuswap Lake, sometimes referred to as Little Shuswap Lake, is a stunning lake located in the southern interior of British Columbia, Canada. Renowned for its natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Here’s a breakdown of some key features:

Books about Shuswap Lake:

Shuswap Lake Safety Book: The Essential Lake Safety Guide For Children

Shuswap Lake Fun Book: A Fun and Educational Lake Coloring Book

• Location: Shuswap Lake lies in the Columbia Shuswap region, northeast of Kamloops and south of Revelstoke, British Columbia.
• Shape and Size: The lake’s unique H-shape is formed by four major arms: Salmon Arm (southwest), Shuswap Arm (west), Anstey Arm (northeast), and Seymour Arm (north). With a surface area of approximately 119.5 square miles (309 square kilometers), it’s one of the largest lakes in British Columbia.
• Depth: The average depth of Shuswap Lake is 431 feet (131 meters), with a maximum depth exceeding 1,700 feet (518 meters) in some areas.
• Formation: Shuswap Lake is a product of glacial scouring during the ice age. The glaciers carved out the basin and deposited sediment along the shores, creating the diverse landscapes surrounding the lake.

Activities and Attractions:

Shuswap Lake offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Here are some highlights:

• Houseboating: Shuswap Lake boasts the largest houseboat fleet in Canada, making it a prime destination for a relaxing vacation cruising the lake.
• Boating and watersports: Enjoy watersports like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or simply cruising the vast expanse of the lake.
• Fishing: The lake is a haven for anglers, with abundant populations of rainbow trout, bull trout, kokanee salmon, burbot, and lake trout. Fishing derbies are held throughout the year.
• Swimming: Several public beaches provide opportunities for swimming and enjoying the refreshing lake water.
• Hiking and biking: Explore the scenic trails that wind through the forests surrounding the lake, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Camping: Numerous campgrounds cater to tent campers and RV enthusiasts, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
• Winter Activities: During winter, the lake transforms into a wonderland for activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling (on designated trails).

Points of Interest:

• Sicamous: Nicknamed the “Houseboat Capital of Canada,” Sicamous is a popular resort town located at the southern tip of the lake. It offers various amenities, restaurants, and shops.
• Salmon Arm: The largest city bordering the lake, Salmon Arm provides a range of services, accommodation options, and historical sites.
• Shuswap Lake Provincial Park: Located on the western shore of the lake, this park offers camping facilities, hiking trails, and boat launches.

Overall, Shuswap Lake is a gem of British Columbia, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse activities, and a vibrant lakeside community.