The South Thompson Shuswap is a paradise for those who love to stand up paddleboard. With countless lakes and rivers to paddle on and the perfect, sunny weather to fulfil your SUP dreams, there’s simply no better place in Canada to be on a board and walk on water. Just take a look at these incredible pictures from Shuswap, Sun Peaks and Kamloops.
Need more convincing? We didn’t think so. But just in case, here are the 10 reasons why the South Thompson Shuswap is Canada’s SUP Capital.
Amazing landscape diversity
Only in the South Thompson Shuswap can you paddle on water surrounded by lush forests, towering mountains, arid deserts and bright green grasslands. You can find almost any biome in The South Thompson Shuswap and paddle through it.
The quietest, smoothest waters
Love the feeling of having a lake all to yourself? In the South Thompson Shuswap you’ll see more wildlife in the water than you’ll see people. The result: quiet and smooth waters perfect for SUP.
309.6 km's of lake all to myself! #SUP #exploreshuswap #SalmonArm
A photo posted by David McAleenan (@mashola) on https://www.instagram.com/p/2jZrsQELnr/
Famous SUP culture
Stand up paddleboarding is more than just an activity in the South Thompson Shuswap, it’s a way of life. Locals and visitors find their peace on the still waters of area’s lakes and strong SUP businesses help support the cause.
#sup #paullake #explorekamloops
A photo posted by @christian.dennis on https://www.instagram.com/p/3rbQF3GqmT/?taken-by=christian.dennis
Crystal clear water
The lakes of the South Thompson Shuswap clear themselves at an astounding rate, meaning the water is fresh, pure and so clear that you can see straight to the bottom. This calmness in the water allows you to explore a whole new world under your board, where dash by and curious turtles swim at your feet.
A photo posted by Dave Markel (@davemarkelphoto) on https://www.instagram.com/p/BDXX8swMAe4/
Incredible scenery
Did we mention the views?
Secret beaches
With miles of waterfront and isolated lakes, the South Thompson Shuswap is famous for its secret shores. Paddle up to one and spend the day (and maybe your night) on your own private beach.
Little post may long paddle boarding at bench mark beach #scotchcreek #Shuswap
A photo posted by Paul Anderson (@whiskeythrottleadv) on https://www.instagram.com/p/BF0PVzjGmK8/?tagged=scotchcreek
History
One of first ever paddleboards imported to Canada came through the South Thompson Shuswap, making the region one of the first SUP areas in the country. In the region, you’ll find some of Canada’s most knowledgeable stand up paddleboarders who are eager to share their advice on where to SUP.
The very first production stand up paddle board made. 2006 Surftech Laird 12'1.
A photo posted by Bodie Shandro (@paddlesurfit) on https://www.instagram.com/p/BH53zShgg95/?taken-by=paddlesurfit&hl=en
Best weather in the country
The South Thompson Shuswap is known for its blue skies and warm, comfortable temperatures.
A photo posted by three bees (@three_bees) on https://www.instagram.com/p/BHgGvkfjvWP/
Dog friendly
Stand up paddleboarding doesn’t have to be just for those with two legs. With dog friendly hiking trails and beaches, the South Thompson Shuswap is a natural fit for adding a dog to your paddleboard.
Everyone can do it
Most importantly, SUP in the South Thompson Shuswap is an activity for everyone. Beginners love the calm, gentle waters while more advanced paddlers can find challenges in downwinding in the Shuswap. Whatever your skill level or familiarity with SUP, there’s water waiting for you in the South Thompson Shuswap.
Paddle-Specific Local Businesses
Ready to walk on water in Canada’s SUP Capital? Any of these paddle-specific local businesses will have you on the water as soon as you can get to the South Thompson Shuswap.
Paddle Surfit
http://www.paddlesurfit.com/
+1 250-318-0722
bodie@paddlesurfit.com
Fall paddling on Heffley Lake. #EXPLOREKAMLOOPS,#sunpeaksresort,#destinationbc,@paddlesurfit
A photo posted by Bodie Shandro (@paddlesurfit) on https://www.instagram.com/p/8JESXiybTY/?taken-by=paddlesurfit
Tailgate Tours
http://tailgatetours.ca/
250-299-9871
Wake Up SUP
604-850-4799
info@wakeupsup.com
A photo posted by Wake Up Sup (@wakeupsup) on https://www.instagram.com/p/6yrLxcpE0q/
http://wakeupsup.com/