Summer is Here

Summer is officially here; calling an end to my blog! I really enjoyed sharing my insight on some of fun activities you can do in the beautiful area in and around Kamloops. When I chose to pick an activity to feature on my blog, I made sure it promoted healthy living and showed the true spirit of the area. Thinking back, some of my favourite adventures were hiking to Eagle Eye Lookout, golfing Talking Rock, and paddle boarding at Lac Le Jeune. Furthermore, when partaking on a hike or ride I almost always met or made a new friend on the trail. This caused me to realize something; citizens of Kamloops are truly active people. Whether it's walking their dogs, kayaking surrounding lakes or going disk golfing, the citizens of Kamloops find unique ways to stay active and enjoy themselves at the same time. In a nutshell, this blog was meant to do just that; help readers find their own way to stay active and become more in touch with the area we live in. When making this blog, I was happy to have strengthened my love for biking and hiking. As a result, I plan on discovering many new trails once school is out during the summer. On parting words, I hope readers were able to enjoy Kamloops a little more and find a new activities they can do in the region. Cheers and have happy summer!

Disk Golf

Have you ever been disk golfing? For those who've never played disc golf, it's basically golf but instead of using clubs to hit a ball into a hole, you throw Frisbee's in a basket. Furthermore, there are a variety of disks that are used for shorter and further distances much like drivers and irons in traditional golf. Many of these frisbees can be purchased for low prices at sporting good stores, such as Consignor Sports and Sportchek. As Kamloops citizens were lucky enough to have two stellar course offered in the Kamloops region. Recently, I was lucky enough to test my skills with a few of my friends on the course located in Rose Hill. The few thoughts that came to our minds were that this course is absolutely stunning and free of charge! As a matter of fact, the views from hole 2 and hole 5 are some of the best views I've ever seen of Kamloops. As for the golf side of things, this course has great baskets, lots of tee markers, and informative tee signs that make golfing this course a blast. If you're a less serious player (like myself), the red tees are great for fun play. In contrast, the blue tees appear to offer additional length and more challenging throwing lines. The only area of improvement this course could use, would be replacing some of the concrete tee pads. All in all, Rose Hill Disc Golf Course offers premiere disc golfing with no cost. Theres no better way for you and your friends to get outdoors and have a little friendly competition than disc Golfing.

Course Map

24 Hour Gyms

Everyone wants that perfect summer body you can flaunt at the beach. What better way to get one than to buy a gym pass and start working out regularly. With so many gyms in this amazing town we call Kamloops, this is quite the dilemma for people looking to get in shape. Furthermore, a lot of these facilities have finicky schedules resulting in large crowds and frustration for clients trying to incoporate fitness into their day to day lives. With every problem there's a solution; buy a pass to a 24 hour gym. This way, clients can easily fit in workouts whenever they have free time. A premiere 24 hour gym located in the heart of downtown Kamloops is Acceleration. Owned by Greg Kozoris who trains pro atheletes like Shane Doan and Graham Aggasiz, this gym fits the needs of many athletes (including myself) in the Kamloops Region. As for pricing, it’s $240 for 6 months of unlimited access to this premium facility. From my own experience, I found this to be a stellar deal because many gyms in Kamloops cost upwards of $50 a month. Additionally, there are many training opportunities and whenever I have a question about a workout the staff does their best to answer it. If you're interested, Koz offers a free 30 day trial allowing you to become oriented with Acceleration's equipment and facility. Getting in shape allows you to feel, move and look better, this summer is the time to do so!

http://www.kozoris-acceleration.com

Eagle Eye Lookout

         Last week I found one of the most beautiful hikes in the surrounding Kamloops region. Not knowing what to expect, I headed to the hills with a camera, packed lunch, and a few friends. We were not disappointed as after a mere 30 minutes of  hiking, we were enjoying a picnic in the sun surrounded by wild flowers and amazing views. Located 40 minutes outside of town, Eagle Eye Lookout is an optimal hike for unparalleled views of the stunning Kamloops region. To reach the trail head, make your way to the North Shore, and then to Bachelor Hills. Next, follow Batchelor Hills Dr all the way through the residential area of Bachelor. Continue on this road which turns into Lac Du Bois Rd at the cattle guard for 15.5 km. Turn Right on McQueen-Isobel Lake Rd. Later on, the road will fork roughly 1.6 km in, so make sure to keep to the left. After a little while, you'll see the parking lot. Subsequently, after you have parked your vehicle make your way to the two trail heads on the right side (west). As a precaution, I advise you ignore the trail that has the Eagle Eye Look Out sign and take the other that is not signed. (Look for the red cattle guard at the trail head.) This may seem contradictory, but the marked trail head is actually much more difficult to trek. As of last week a bus driver, had to get rescued off the mountain because he got lost when hiking in this area. In a nutshell, the unmarked trail is quite straight forward. On the summit, there is a picnic table, old fire tower and incredible views. This week is the time to get out and start your summer adventuring!

Paddle Boarding in Lac Le Jeune

Paddle boarding is an amazing way to get a workout and immerse yourself in nature. One of the best locations, to go in the Kamloops area is at Lac Le Jeune. With a provincial located on the shores of the lake, Lac Le Jeune offers 8 kms of pristine water ideal for paddling. For those who are curious what paddle boarding is, it's when you stand up on a surfboard and use a paddle to propel yourself forward. The next step in your Lac Le Jeune paddle boarding adventure is to acquire a board. Three options are to borrow a friend's, and rent or buy one from a local dealer such as, Paddle Surf It. I'd recommend renting one because if you don't like the sport at least it's only in your possession for a few hours. Finally, when you reach Lac Le Jeune head to the provincial park where there is lots of parking and launching locations for your board. When on the water, I'd advise you to take a loop around the lake which is around 8 kms and filled with majestic views of the entire landscape. Nothing says summertime like getting out on a lake a experiencing the true fun of paddle boarding.

Farmer's Market

Some of my fondest memories of Kamloops Farmers Market are meandering my way through the various vendors with my grandma to buy fresh fruits and veggies for the week. As a little boy, the farmers market helped show me the faces behind the food we eat and what fresh foods actually look like. Whether you're looking to for the freshest fruit in the city, craft alcoholic beverages, delectable food trucks, exclusive jewellery or specialty jams unique to the Thompson-Nicola area; the farmers market is the perfect place to purchase products. In the city of Kamloops, there are two farmers markets, one on Wednesday and the other on Saturday. Subsequently, the Saturday market is located on 200 block of St Paul St. and the Stuart Wood schoolyard 8:30-12:30 (April 22nd to October 28th, 2017). As for Wednesday's, the market is on 400 block of Victoria St from 8:00-2:00 (May 3rd to October 25th, 2017). On another note,  some of the every one of  the products offered at the Kamloops Farmers Market is unique to Kamloops, fresh and supports the local economy. After all, the fresher the food, the better tasting and healthier it is.  In a nutshell, the Kamloops Farmers Market is an ideal location to buy fresh food and support local farmers/craftesmen. Not to mention, the market offers an interesting social experience. This week is time to make memories and expirience the tastes of Kamloops! 

TRU Basketball Courts

          What's better than sun, friends and a competitive game of pick up basketball? Recently, Thompson Rivers University added two new outdoor basketball courts to the university's campus for the public's use. A few days ago, my brother and I enjoyed the whole court to ourselves for an intense game of one-on-one. My first impression was one to remember as these outdoor basketball courts are a work of art. First of all, the courts are full sized and concrete with glass backboards and high quality netting. Furthermore, the "playgrounds" are located in the heart of TRU's campus and offer impressive views of Kamloops. During anytime of the day you can bring a ball and some friends for shoot around or some competitive fun. As a result, these outdoor courts are a substantial substitute for Tournament Capital Centre when the indoor basketball courts are reserved for practices. A strong distinction from TCC is you won't have to worry about playing on a crowded hoop or getting in anyone's way because the TRU outdoor courts are relatively unknown to the public. The peak time of use on the outdoor hoops is usually early or mid afternoon if you're looking to join in on a bit of street ball. Playing basketball is a fantastic way you and your friends can incorporate a new workout into your week.

Click here for a map of TRU if you're having trouble finding the courts!

   

Kamloops Bike Ranch

As a kid, the Kamloops Bike Ranch was the place where I learned to love the sport of mountain biking and progress my skills Whether you're into cross country, DH, BMX, or dirt jumping the Ranch offers a variety of trails/features for your riding style. There are many advantages to choosing the Ranch for your weekly ride. First of all, the Kamloops Bike Ranch offers some of the highest quality trails and features in the entire province. Furthermore, it can be used for free at any time of the day during riding seasons. As for the trails, if you're looking for a more mellow single track ride I'd recommend 'Three Amigos'. On the other hand, if dirt jumps and table tops are your thing I'd advise you to take 'Tumbleweed' if you're intermediate rider and 'Fist Full of Dollars' if yo're more experienced. When you reach the bottom, you have option of either biking up the switchbacks found on the cross country trail or pay $2 to shuttle the road. Another way you can enjoy the Kamloops Bike Ranch is by staying in the Bowl (look on map) which offers a variety of features that can be shredded from dusk to dawn. Why not head out to the Kamloops Bike Ranch and discover the true thrill of mountain biking today?

Talking Rock

 Affordable pricing, free junior memberships, challenging terrain, great food and scenic views are just a few of the reasons why you should head out to Talking Rock Golf Course this week. With every golfing season, I try to take on new courses and challenge myself with a variety of terrain. In the spirit of taking on a new challenge,  I headed 40 minutes east from Kamloops to check out the secluded golf course known of Talking Rock. The whole golfing experience left me very impressed and I'll definitely come back again for a number of reasons. First of all, the pricing of Talking Rock is very affordable as it only costs a mere $37.00 for adults and juniors can golf for free. Furthermore, the golfing consists of the well maintained fairways, rolling hills and beautiful views of the traditional Secwepemc area. It's not only the golfing that makes Talking Rock unique, they also offer luxurious accommodations, delicious restaurants, private beach use and a relaxing spa. So whether you dabble around with your five iron, drive 300 yards, or could spend all day in a spa come check out Talking Rock this week because they have it all!

 

Bachelor Trails

    We were blessed this Easter weekend with sunshine and great weather. I was able get out and ride for the first time in bachelor and I left with a smile on my face. We took the Bachelor Pass around the cell tower and hit the lower Bachelor routes to the parking lot. With a harder climb to begin with, the ride pans out to be a flowy single track with a few fun berms and steeps. On the return bike, the trail consists of a few up downs and turns. Throughout the ride, there are panoramic views of Kamloops and the semi desert landscape found in this region of the province. This week is the perfect time to get out and ride or hike Bachelor because in the summer this area gets too hot. Also, the risk for rattlesnakes is less in the spring time so it's alot safer for you and your dog. Why not get out and enjoy the many awesome trails Bachelor has to offer for hikers and bikers? Cheers!                                                              

Rio Escondido Bike Trail

    

         Rio  Escondido is one of the best riding trails in all of Kamloops with some of the best jumps and berms in the area.  Kamloops boasts as one of the most profound mountainbiking cities in the entire province with a variety of riding options. Above all, Kamloops single track, such as Rio, is sought out by riders all over. As the weather warms up it's the perfect time to get out on your bike and have a thrill. The ideal way to do this is to head out to Juniper where "Rio Escondido" flows. The directions go as follows; locate Rosehill road and a leave a car at the bottom. Then, shuttle or bike to the top turnaround spot just after the water tower and head down the trail. On the other hand, be careful if you're biking up because it will be very hard and long ride. For the ride down, keep your eyes open for alternate routes. Don't fret about other trails because everything ends up in the same area near your car. As for features keep an eye out for airs, steeps, flume rides down dried up creek beds with banked corners, a banked slalom style spot and a lot of high speed loving. Be sure sure to check out the video link I have below for a POV video of the entire trail. Happy riding!

Shredding Rio Escondido

Map of Trail

Lookout Hike at Kenna Cartwright

        Kenna Cartwright offers beautiful views in Kamloops along with some of the most accessible trails. With this seemingly never ending winter finally starting to turn to spring, the trails at Kenna are now able to be hiked. This week I was fortunate enough to be able to get out and complete the entire hike to the Kenna Cartwright lookout. Although the hike was a bit chilly with the high altitude, overall it was great to get out in nature and enjoy some spring vibes. If you're looking for a good workout that also offers great views, keep heading West from the Dufferin parking lot and look for signage for the lookout.  There are a variety of trails that lead to the lookout so pick your own adventure and keep an eye out for the signage. When you reach the top there are panoramic views of Kamloops as well as the lake. Furthermore, there is a picnic table so don't forget to bring some snacks for a well deserved break! With the upcoming forecast of sunshine, I'd encourage you to put on your runners and hit the trails for an unforgettable view and great workout. 

 

Snowmobiling At Lac Le Jeune

           

           Growing up in Lac Le Jeune I have used these great snowmobiling trails for many years. With all the new snow we've received this past week, the snowmobiling conditions have been better than ever.  Located 20 minutes south of Kamloops, the Lac Le Jeune snowmobile trails run to the south and east of Lac Le Jeune. With an elevation of 1300m to 1680m, there is great powder throughout the winter waiting for your skis to slice through. This area is managed by an agreement with the KSA (Kamloops Snowmobile Association) and MoTSA (Ministry of Tourism, Sports, and the Arts). A key lesson I'd advise you to follow is to make sure you're respectful of cross country skiers, snowshoers, fishermen and locals who use the immediate area of the lake.  Once clear of residents, the ungroomed trail system runs through beautiful rolling plateaus on unplowed forest industry and ranching roads, peaceful meadows, hidden lakes and old forest fire burns. Also, I'd recommend checking out the old complex of Lac Le Jeune Ski Ranch as there are many fun jumps and terrain in the area. Come shred today, I can assure you won't be disappointed!

 

Outdoor Ice Skating at McGowan Pond

      Kamloops offers some true Canadian fun at the outdoor rinks located all over the city. I was quite impressed with the conditions of the ice as sometimes you're able to golf in Kamloops around this time of year. Many rinks offer stunning views of the beautiful city we live and no pay upon entry. Usually on weekends, you can find a pickup game or skate around with some of the other people looking for good time. The locations around the city are Pineview Valley Community Ice Rink, Juniper Ice Rink – Juniper Park, Dallas-Barnhartvale Church, Heffley – Len Haughton Park, Centennial Park – Ralph Clearwaters Sports Complex (Westsyde), Rayleigh's Rae-Mor Park, Sun Peaks Resort and Erin Valley Riding Stables. Skating on the outdoor rinks offers free family fun and an opportunity to get your hockey fix. Grab your skates, a cup of hot cocoa and head out to the rinks before the ice is all gone. Happy skating!

         

Night Skiing at Harper

           The activity of the week is downhill night skiing at Harper Ski Hill located 20 minutes outside of town at Paul Lake. On Friday, my dad and I decided to hit the slopes at Harper for a little fun under the stars. After the 20 minute dive from Kamloops we reached the rustic lodge only to discover that we'd be some of the only ones using the T-bar from 5:00-9-00. The tickets cost around $25 for night which is quite reasonable compared to the cost of other mountains in BC. The downside of night skiing at Harper is that they only offer 3 lit runs down the mountain which makes it become pretty boring fast. If you're looking to ski terrain park, night skiing is a great way to get some more runs in when the other mountains are closed. Harper offers delicious food for the entire night and two toasty fireplaces that'll warm you up in an instant. All in all, night skiing is an interesting to spend the night but don't expect to be offered a variety of ski able terrain. Great views, tasty food, and a lit terrain park/runs all for $25!

Dog Trails at Stake Lake

          With all the sunshine and snow in abundance, my dad, my dog pepper and I checked out the 5 kms of dog trails offered at Stake Lake. The trails were a blast and a great workout. The trails consist of a few steep hills combined with some beautiful sections meandering through the forest of fir , pine and poplar. This is a great activity to do around this time of year because of the pefect skiiing temperatures along with the ability to give you and your pooch a unforgetable workout. Furthermore, it's free to use these trails. The only concerns I'd have for those reading this is to make sure you're comfortable with skiing up and down terrain and to be careful when skiing on over used sections of the trails. If you're an inexperienced skier I would advise to take your time classicing or snowshoeing on the pet friendly trails in the area. All in all, these trails offer a second to none 30 minute workout that'll challenge your furry friend as well as yourself. 

Stake Lake Ski Trails

          The activity of the week in the Kamloops area is cross country skiing at the Stake Lake Trails. Located just 20 minutes outside of Kamloops, Overlander Ski Club offers an amazing 60 km of scenic cross country skiing terrain and 13 km of snowshoeing trails for all skill levels. Growing up in a cross country skiing family, I often come skiing here to use the variety of trails and still finding new exciting ones to this day. On the weekend, a few friends and I did the full Cowpoke loop. The ski consisted of 18 kms of well groomed trails, beautiful scenery and even a few bunny sightings! During the whole trail we only encountered 4 people allowing my friends and I to immerse ourselves in the landscape even more. I would highly recommend this trail if you're an moderate skier that's looking for a scenic, fun, hour and a half workout. If you're a beginner skier, I would encourage you to try skiing Cartwheel around Stake Lake or exploring the vast amount of snowshoe trails the ski club has to offer. If you're furry friend wants to tag along, check out the 5 kms of dog trails. Furthermore, Stake Lake offers another 5 kms of lit cross country trails for night skiing and a terrain park for all ages looking to challenge their abilities. After your ski or walk, warm up with a variety of steaming hot beverages offered in the lodge. With all this fun waiting to be had, why don't you check out Stake Lake this week for an affordable price and a memorable time!  

Tournament Capital Centre

          Tournament Capital Centre is the athletic gem of Kamloops. Through my monthly membership of $45 I have access to multiple basketball courts, workout rooms, aquatic centres, and many other amazing options to stay in shape. From my perspective TCC, offers the most bang for your buck in Kamloops. Furthermore, it is situated right next to Thompson Rivers University which makes it easily accessible to those living in South Kamloops and to the many buses that transfer in that area.  If you're interested in partaking multiple activities each week, TCC is the place for you. For example, TCC is the only place in the interior that offers a public field house with three courts, track and workout stations. On the other hand, there are a few downsides to the Tournament Capital Centre. The first problem is it's busy schedule. Sometimes after school I attempt to play on basketball on the courts at TCC but each time,  to my dismay, I find out that the courts are closed from 4:00-6:00. This is common at TCC as TRU's athletic teams, Kamloops Swim Club as well as the Kamloops Track and Field Club close the field house and pool for private practices. Another downfall with TCC is how busy it can be. If you are looking for a quiet gym to do your workout in, I wouldn't recommend going to this facility. The way I've levitated these problems is to regularly check TCC's schedule and try to go early mornings or late night's. Furthermore, in summer months many people use the outdoor track which cuts down on the amount of people using the indoor facilities. Tournament Capital Centre is a great addition to Kamloops.

                                            

         Why Am I Writing This Blog?

           Growing up 20 minutes outside the amazing city of Kamloops, I have been able to discover many cool activities you can do throughout the region. Over the years, I have learned to love the outdoors and take advantage of the great area around where I live. Some of my favourite activities to do in the region are mountain bike, hike, snowboard, skim board, cross country ski, golf and play team sports at the many fields/facilities in the region. As a result of my many years of living and playing in Kamloops I have gained valuable knowledge of great viewpoints, trails and insider tips for facilities. Whether you're a avid mountain biker looking for a great trail or someone looking for a fun activity to get into shape, this blog is for you!

Here's a great video made by Tourism Kamloops showing some of the awesome things you can do in the area!