The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Area P (Rivers and the Peaks)
4.5
(102)
718
hikers
20
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Area P (Rivers and the Peaks) are defined by a diverse landscape of rivers, lakes, and varied mountainous terrain within British Columbia's Thompson-Nicola Regional District. The region encompasses rural lakeside communities and a segment of the North Thompson Valley, featuring significant waterways like the South Thompson River and Kamloops Lake. Hikers can explore semi-arid environments of open grasslands, rugged bluffs, and rolling hills, alongside unique geological formations. This area offers a network of paths suitable…
Last updated: October 19, 2026
3.8
(6)
30
hikers
8.27km
02:23
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
5.03km
01:24
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
hikers
3.47km
00:53
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.60km
01:06
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
14.9km
03:47
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Area P (Rivers and the Peaks)
Tips from the Community
The Rivers Trail is a paved, multi-use path that runs about 40 kilometres through the North and South Thompson Rivers along with Kamloop's north shore and downtown. This section of trail runs alongside the South Thompson River and North Kamloops, offering some great scenery for a ride or a stroll.
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Here there is access to the Rivers Trail just behind the school. There is parking available here, making it a convenient spot to start a walk, or a good place to turn around if hiking from another section.
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This lookout connects to the Rivers Trail and offers a very nice panorama over the river and the surrounding valley. There is a gazebo hare where you can rest and enjoy the views as well as some interesting sculptures.
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The paved Xget’tem’ Trail climbs steadily through Peterson Creek Nature Park, offering a peaceful escape right from Kamloops’ downtown edge. Meaning “deep valley” in the Secwépemc language and pronounced hawk-tum, this out-and-back route is cleared in winter and lit at night, making it a lovely lantern-lined walk with sweeping views.
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The Xget’tem’ section of Peterson Creek Park is a relaxed spot for a family hike or picnic near Springhill Creek. Grassy areas, picnic tables and barbecue spots make it easy to linger, while the multi-use Xget’tem’ Trail offers a pleasant way to stretch your legs through the park.
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The McArthur Island Trail is part of the 40 kilometers of trails that make up Kamloops's Rivers Trail. This trail makes a full loop around the perimeter of the island and if you come at quieter times of day you'll have a high chance of spotting some of the varied wildlife that call the area home.
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This park has 12 baseball diamonds, disc golf, multi-use paths, soccer fields, a skate park, tennis courts, a stadium, event centre, and more! In short, there is something for everyone here, so no matter what you're looking for you'll likely find it.
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From this point on the Rivers Trail you'll have a great view over the Thompson River to the hills on the opposite side. The convenient bench makes it the perfect place to have a break and take it all in.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Area P (Rivers and the Peaks)?
There are over 20 family-friendly hiking trails in Area P (Rivers and the Peaks), with 14 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for families with younger children or those seeking a relaxed outing.
Are there any easy, stroller-friendly trails suitable for toddlers?
Yes, for a very easy and flat option, consider the McArthur Island Trail loop. It's a short, paved loop with minimal elevation gain, ideal for strollers and little legs. The Sunset Trail also offers accessible paths and is generally considered easy.
What kind of natural attractions can we expect to see along the trails?
Area P is rich in diverse landscapes. You can explore the unique grassland environments of the Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area, enjoy stunning views of Kamloops Lake from spots like the Battle Bluff Cairn, or discover fascinating geological features such as ancient basalt columns and hoodoos and rock formations.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Absolutely! The McArthur Island Trail loop is a great circular option for an easy walk. For a slightly longer but still family-friendly loop, the Hiking loop from Paul Lake Provincial Park offers beautiful scenery around the lake.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes?
Many trails in Area P are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your furry friend on a leash, especially in protected areas like Paul Lake Provincial Park and Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in this region?
The spring and fall offer ideal conditions for family hiking in Area P, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The semi-arid environment means summers can be hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended if hiking during July and August. Winter hikes are possible, but trails may be snow-covered, requiring appropriate gear.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on these trails?
Yes, the diverse ecosystems, particularly within the Lac du Bois Grasslands Protected Area, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Bird watching is popular, especially along the Cooney Bay Beach Trail, which offers views of Kamloops Lake and its surrounding habitats.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Area P?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Area P, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from gentle riverside paths to scenic viewpoints, and the accessibility of many routes for all ages. The panoramic views of Kamloops Lake and the unique grassland landscapes are frequently highlighted as favorites.
Are there any trails that offer views of lakes or rivers?
Absolutely! Many trails provide stunning views of the region's prominent waterways. The View of Kamloops Lake from Lac du Bois Grasslands is a popular spot, and the Hiking loop from Paul Lake Provincial Park offers beautiful lakeside vistas.
Do I need any special permits to hike these family-friendly trails?
Generally, no special permits are required for day hiking on the family-friendly trails in Area P (Rivers and the Peaks). However, always respect park regulations and leave no trace to help preserve these beautiful natural areas for everyone.
Where can we find parking for these family-friendly trails?
Most popular trailheads, especially those within provincial parks like Paul Lake Provincial Park, offer designated parking areas. For trails like the McArthur Island Trail loop, parking is typically available nearby. It's always a good idea to check specific route details on komoot for parking information before you head out.
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