Sicamous

Gold was discovered on the Columbia River, in the area known as the Big Bend, near Revelstoke, in 1864. Seymour Arm, became a major supply centre. Steamboats, used for transport of goods as well as people, were first built by the Hudson’s Bay Company. CPR also added several boats to the lake. But because rail transport was so much faster, by the time the railway was completed, the steamboats faded into extinction.

Old Town

The first permanent settlers arrived in the area in 1885 after the Last Spike was driven in Craigellachie. The railway now linked Canada from sea to sea. Old Town, or Eagle Pass Landing, became a town nearly overnight in 1871. In 1892, Finlayson’s store opened and a jail was built. A post office was added in 1904, followed by the opening of the first school between 1908 and 1910. In 1949, a bridge was built across the channel, replacing the previous ferry crossing. ;

Hundreds of houseboats are docked on Shuswap and Mara Lakes by eight companies. Leaving the hosueboat connoisseur free to choose between basic models or multi-storeyed palaces to suit their lake-traversing needs.

Why Houseboat?

1. Houseboating isn’t just a pastime for the ultra-rich – many boats hold more than a dozen people, and if the costs are shared, it adds up to only dollars a day.

2. It’s unique alternative to other activities.

3. Houseboating has been described by some as a floating tailgate party. But keep in mind that drinking responsibly, as on land, is just as important when on a houseboat.

4. Renting a houseboat is a good way to test drive different brands and types before making a purchase.

5. Almost any responsible adult can operate a houseboat.

6. Because they can be tied together, houseboats make a great platform for family reunions and other large gatherings.

7. It’s a romantic alternative for an intimate getaway. Several restaurants along the shoreline of Shuswap Lake offer a chance to wine and dine your sweetheart before heading back to the seclusion of your floating love nest.

8. Rainy weather can be just as fun as sunshine, because board games or cards can be moved inside with no worry of setting up a tarp or getting drenched in a downpour.

9. It’s often an addicting experience. Once they’ve tried it for the first time, many people come back year after year.

10. Everything is right where you need it to be. There are no delayed flights, lost luggage, or expensive fares.;

Chart your course: Decide ahead of time what beaches or parks you’d like to visit. Beaches can get crowded quickly, especially during peak tourism months.

Command cleanliness: Assigning a special chore to everyone can help keep the houseboat tidy, especially when sand is being tracked into the house by beach-treading feet.

Musical memories: Giving your vacation a soundtrack will help ensure lively memories. Check with the houseboat company to see if a CD player is on board, and bring a variety of music.

Heating it up: Hot tubs are a great way to fend off the odd night-time chill. They’re romantic for houseboating couples, a good way to warm up after a swim in the lake, and add spice to the houseboating experience.

Shoreline Exploring: Don’t neglect the joys of land. Many hiking trails abound in the vicinity of Shuswap Lake. Make sure you bring proper footwear and a camera.

Sun spotting: Since the beautiful skies will be right over your head, don’t forget to tune into the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets that can be found on Shuswap Lake. You’ll treasure the memories forever.

Safety Tips

Practicing the buddy system is helpful when swimming, as frequent location-changing can be confusing. Don’t underestimate the power of the sun’s rays. Make sure your sunscreen supply is sufficient, and apply it frequently. Pack a sunburn relief gel just in case.

Make sure you have a first aid kit, and let everyone on the boat know where it is.

Consider purchasing inexpensive walkie-talkies. They’ll come in handy when the kids ask to explore the trails.

Educate yourself on harmful plants, like poison ivy, and make sure everybody knows what not to touch.

Confirm the presence of life jackets and fire extinguishers. Make sure young children are comfortable with wearing a life jacket, and educate all passengers on how to operate the fire extinguisher.

Sunshine and water can increase the effects of alcohol. Breathing in the Shuswap air and relaxing on the top deck may be as intoxicating as a six-pack, and is much safer. Always designate a driver to operate the boat in case of emergency.

Don’t use the generator while anchored, or use only for short periods of time. Some houseboats can trap generator fumes, causing drowsiness and, in extreme cases, suffocation.

Always know where everyone is. Discourage people from swimming under the swim platform.

When docking for the night, make sure the proper lights are turned on so other boaters can see you and that the boat is securely anchored.

Many boats are equipped with a radio, but it’s a good idea to back that up with a cellphone in case of emergency.;

Across the highway from Yard Creek Provincial Park, the Eagle Valley Nature Park is a suitable venue for walking or bird watching. Giant cedar trees abound, and the view of the Eagle River is amazing. Located about 13 km east of Sicamous. The hiking logo is visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. Turn on Clifford Road.

Mara Lake Provincial Park

This day-use facility is appreciated by both picnickers and swimmers. The 5.9 ha property lies along the eastern shores of Mara Lake, along Highway 97A, 12 km south of Sicamous. The water is also a vital salmon habitat.

Yard Creek Provincial Park

Near Malakwa, the Yard Creek Provincial Park is a great day-trip destination. Plenty of hiking trails and camping facilities exist over the 60 ha of land. Fishing, hiking, swimming, and golfing are available. The park is well-known for its bird watching opportunities.

The park is located along the roadside, 15 km east of Sicamous on the Trans-Canada Highway.

Eagle River

This path may not be suitable for younger visitors or those inexperienced on a bicylce. For those wanting to experience the 12.3-km trail, great views can be found. Visitors are asked to take caution due to the narrow road and lack of a bike path or shoulder. Access this route by turning on the Sicamous Solsqua Road beside

This day-use facility is appreciated by both picnickers and swimmers. The 5.9 ha property lies along the eastern shores of Mara Lake, along Highway 97A, 12 km south of Sicamous. The water is also a vital salmon habitat.

North of the Sicamous public beach park, the nature park offers scenic walking and biking trails along the Eagle River and Shuswap Lake. The park is accessed by continuing along the shoreline of the Sicamous Beach Park. Large cottonwoods and various birds will greet the walker or biker. ;

Equipped with playground equipment and an outdoor volleyball court, the beach is a favourite spot for many in the summer. You can either take Silver Sands Road (turning north off the Trans-Canada Highway east of the bridge) or walk to the end of Finlayson St. ;

Near Malakwa, the Yard Creek Provincial Park is a great daylong destination. Plenty of hiking trails and camping facilities exist over the 60 hectares of land. Fishing, hiking, swimming, and golfing is available, and the park is well known for its bird watching opportunities.

The park is located along the roadside, 15 kilometres east of Sicamous on the Trans-Canada Highway.;

Across the highway from Yard Creek Provincial Park, the Eagle Valley Nature Park is a suitable venue for walking or bird watching. Giant cedar trees abound, and the view of the Eagle River is amazing. Located about 13 km east of Sicamous. The hiking logo is visible from the Trans-Canada Highway. Turn on Clifford Road.

This path may not be suitable for younger visitors or those inexperienced on a bicycle. For those wanting to experience the 12.3 kilometre trail, great views can be found. Visitors are asked to take caution due to the narrow road and lack of a bike path or shoulder. Access this route by turning on the Sicamous/Solsqua Road beside the Abide With Inn.;