Salmon Arm in Shuswap is well known for its beautiful, lush setting amidst mountains, lakes and valleys, highlighted by magnificent Shuswap Lake.
Stop #1: Shuswap Lake
Shuswap Lake is the attraction of this south-central British Columbia area of rugged mountains, forest-lined valleys, grasslands, and lakes.
Stop #2: Shuswap Pie Company (Highlight)
The lunch here was fully sponsored by Shuswap Pie Company. All opinions expressed are my own.
Finding affordable and delicious places to eat at during a roadtrip is not easy, particularly if you want to go where the locals eat.
Enter Shuswap Pie Company, a popular local cafe in Salmon Arm serving up homemade pies, quiches and sandwiches. They are particularly famous for their savoury and sweet pies. Their nourishing fare with generous and shareable portions will fuel you up for the road. The restaurant is currently offering the options of takeout and dine in on their outdoors patio.
The Sirloin and Potato Pie (flaky melt-in-your-mouth pastry with ground beef, potatoes, herbs and tomatoes), Bacon and Cheddar Quiche and Vegetarian Hummus Sandwich (accompanied with a goat cheese walnut salad with raspberry vinaigrette) were really fresh, homemade and hearty. You could definitely taste that they were prepared with authentic and local ingredients.
Definitely make a stop at this local gem if you are in Salmon Arm or doing a roadtrip to the Rockies!
Stop #3: Salmon Arm Wharf
Take a stroll down this scenic wharf with panoramic views of Shuswap Lake.
You can also bird watch as there are hundreds of species that reside here. There are also catfish and turtles in the waters.
Vernon is a city in the Okanagan. This orchard-scented valley is surrounded by three lakes – Kalamalka, Okanagan and Swan – that attract adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts all summer long.
Stop #4: Rattlesnake Point Trail (Highlight)
This moderate 2.4km return (70m elevation trail) in Kalamalka Provincial Park is a high ROI lake with sweeping views of the lake. Be careful to stay on the trail during rattlesnake season. Also, do not attempt to cliff dive as it can be dangerous. Enjoy the panoramic and peaceful views; we were the only people at the viewpoint when we went in the afternoon.
Stop #4: Okanagan Rail Trail (Highlight)
The Okanagan Rail Trail is a truly unique experience, with a total length of 50 km starting at the north end of Kalamalka Lake and finishing at the center of Okanagan Lake, downtown Kelowna. Many people bike or walk the trail. Soak up scenic views along the way with 24 km of the trail being along lakefronts, creeks, and natural habitats.
We had around an hour in the evening for a short walk during sunset. The views were nothing short of stunning.
Our time in the Rockies and surrounding towns and cities has been wonderful so far, and it’s great to support local businesses and communities during COVID-19. Exploring more of scenic Alberta and British Columbia has been a great reminder of how beautiful our local provinces are, and that they should not be underestimated compared to international travel.
Stay tuned for some special edition posts on travelling in the time of COVID-19 and where to eat in the Rockies. As always, send me an email if you want my itinerary or any additional information.