We have a green corridor right down the middle of Kamloops   Whenever we get out to paddle the South Thompson River, we are amazed by the amount of wildlife, and the relative quiet of waterway.   We launch most often at the Pioneer Park boat launch and paddle up river, cross under the Yellowhead Highway and go past the Kamloops Indian Band (TIB) buildings to the shores below the Gregson Trail and back.   The paddle upstream is hard work, although less so in April.   As the river takes a turn around the point near TIB, it narrows and we find ourselves going very slowly.  We keep our eyes on the red and green river buoys to avoid shallows.   Once we have passed the end of the Gregson Trail, we turn and enjoy the downstream paddle back.   Along the way,, we have spotted many geese, ducks, muskrats,  a beaver, bears, coyotes, hawks, and eagles.    People come down to the river to walk, fish, and suntan.   There is always something to see.   We paddle this route up the river in April and May, then we leave the river to the powerboats and come back in mid-September.   We start with this route to build up our strength and endurance since it is an easy launch spot with lots to see.

We enjoy the river upstream and downstream too.   The North Thompson offers a different experience.   As the upland lakes thaw, we will go higher up too, but when we are looking for an hour of exercise, this route is our home base.