When we paddle early in the season. we paddle upriver then return back down to our launch spot.   The South Thompson is the easier river to paddle upstream, but we also go up the North Thompson River too.   We launch from Pioneer Park and head down to the confluence, then we use the rudder to take a sharp turn at Indian Point, turning north to paddle the stronger current of the North Thompson.   Mt. Paul dominates the views as we make our way along the shores of Kamloops Indian Reserve.

The distance to Halston Bridge from the confluence is 3.65km, but upstream progress is slow on this river.   The Batchelor Hills frame the Halston Bridge and the route to Westsyde.

We paddle past Paul Creek, then the Halston Bridge piers and round the pylons of the CN Train Bridge too before heading back downstream.   (Video link)

Yellow willows and red ossier dogwood overlook the sand banks of the river,   Dome Hills and Mt. Paul lie to the northeast.

The route from Pioneer Park passes under four bridges twice (Red Bridge, Black Bridge, Halston Bridge, and the CN Bridge) and is about 10.5 km.   Two thirds of the time is spent paddling upstream, a good core and upper body workout for the early season.