Canoeing... Because of the high number of lakes and rivers in the Thompson Shuswap region there are hundreds of opportunities to paddle on a lake or navigate down a river. For the more experienced and prepared canoeist there are some opportunities for multi-day overnight wilderness camping adventures exploring chains of lakes and rivers.

Some of the lakes in the Thompson-Shuswap region are easily accessible by vehicle while others are situated in the rugged back country regions tucked away in remote wilderness locations. There are lakes and rivers connected by portage routes because river currents are too dangerous or the lake's inflow and outflow rivers are to low.

Canoeing the lakes and rivers in the region, often, creates a great opportunity for wildlife viewing, bird watching and fishing. Swimming too, but only if planned. There are many small and large lakes in the Thompson Shuswap region providing endless days of discovering hidden coves, quiet bays and small islands.

Some rivers provide a relaxing experience while others provide a fast pace thrill of currents and rip tides. Some river adventures last hours while others take days to complete. Many of the main paddle routes in the Thompson-Shuswap region are rated in difficulty by water flow by using an international grade and class rating system.

Some of the lakes in the region to consider canoeing include Paul Lake, Lac Le Jeune, McConnell Lake, Roche Lake and Whitewood Lake near the community of Kamloops, BC. Face Lake, Leighton Lake and Tunkwa Lake near Logan Lake, BC are popular canoe destinations. Near Merritt, BC go and canoe Gwen Lake, Lundbom Lake and Nicola Lake.

One of the most popular recreation lakes in the Thompson Shuswap region is Shuswap Lake. The lake system is shaped like the letter "H" consisting of two developed southern arms (Shuswap Lake Main Arm and Salmon Arm ) and two undeveloped upper arms (Anstey Arm and Seymour Arm). Throughout the lake are marine parks, hidden coves, private bays, marinas, sandy beaches and campgrounds.

Some of the more popular river paddle routes in the Thompson Shuswap include the Adams River, Eagle River, Little Shuswap River, Seymour River, Shuswap River and the South Thompson River.