Kamloops Lake North Shore FSR
Thompson River lake country scenic drive
Kamloops Lake North Shore FSR traces the rugged northern shoreline of this massive Thompson River system lake, winding through classic Interior British Columbia sagebrush country dotted with historic cattle ranches and remnants of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s original construction camps from the 1880s. The route offers spectacular views across the lake toward the Nicola Valley while navigating loose shale hillsides and seasonal creek crossings.
This easy to moderate route suits most high-clearance vehicles during dry conditions, but spring runoff and fall rains turn the clay sections treacherous. Best accessed May through October with fuel available in Kamloops or Cache Creek. Multiple primitive camping spots exist along the shoreline, and the route connects with several other FSR systems for extended exploration. Watch for active logging trucks during weekdays and carry extra water in this semi-arid environment.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 26 mi / 41.8 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2800 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Kamloops, BC |
| Land manager | British Columbia Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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