Arrow Lakes

British Columbia, Canada is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Among them are the Arrow Lakes, which boast two distinct bodies of water: Upper and Lower Arrow lakes. These stunning lakes are widenings of the mighty Columbia River that flows between the Selkirk Mountains to the east and Monashee Mountains to the west. Arrow Lakes is a stunning 230-km long lake that boasts rocky headlands and steep cliffs, making it an impressive sight for any nature lover.

The mountain sides surrounding the lake are heavily forested with lush greenery, giving visitors a sense of serenity as they take in the breathtaking views. With elevations around 2,600 meters above sea level, Arrow Lakes offers some of the most picturesque landscapes in British Columbia. Boating enthusiasts will find themselves right at home on Arrow Lake as it is one of the top boating lakes in BC.

Upper Arrow Lake- Upper Arrow Lake is a man-made reservoir lake on the Columbia River that offers visitors a breathtaking view of nature’s finest features. This long and narrow lake is surrounded by towering mountains, serene trails, marshlands, and wetlands teeming with wildlife. It’s no wonder it has become such a popular destination for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

During the summer months, this destination becomes popular among locals and tourists alike who come here to indulge in various activities such as boating, swimming camping or bird watching. The serene water of the lake provides an excellent opportunity for boaters to explore every nook and corner while enjoying spectacular views of nature’s beauty.

Lower Arrow Lake– The man-made reservoir lake on the Columbia River is a marvel of engineering and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Stretching 90 kilometres in length and spanning 3 km in width, the south side of Lower Arrow Lake offers ample opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

Lower Arrow Lake is a popular summer destination for those seeking outdoor adventures. The lake offers a wide range of activities including boating, swimming, sailing, canoeing, camping, wind surfing, birdwatching and fishing that are perfect for individuals, families, and groups.

Arrow Lakes Provincial Park

Arrow Lakes Beach

The Arrow Lakes Beach is a picturesque swimming beach that offers spectacular views of Upper Arrow Lake. The crystal-clear water temperature is cool and refreshing, perfect for taking a dip on hot summer days. However, it’s important to note that there are no lifeguards at the beach, so visitors should exercise caution when in the water. Additionally, dogs are not permitted in beach areas to help maintain a clean and safe environment.

The sandy beach along the lakes is perfect for a relaxing day out with family and friends. You can soak up some sun, play frisbee on the sand or simply enjoy a picnic under the shade of trees. Surrounded by heavily forested mountains, this serene location provides breathtaking views that will leave you spellbound.

Hiking/Walking Trails in Arrow Lakes

The Upper Arrow North Beach Trail offers a challenging and rewarding adventure for both hiking enthusiasts and mountain bikers alike. With a total distance of 8.7-km, the trail provides breathtaking views of the waterfront paths along Upper Arrow Lake. While it may be considered moderately challenging, completing this route in an average time of 2 hours and 25 minutes will make any adventurer feel accomplished. The trail’s terrain is well-maintained, making it accessible to all levels of hikers and bikers.

The Upper Arrow North Beach Trail is a picturesque hiking path that offers stunning waterfront views. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly hike or just a peaceful stroll with your furry friend, this trail is perfect for everyone. With dogs welcome on the trail, it’s an ideal location to bring along your four-legged companion and enjoy the great outdoors together.

As you make your way down the path, keep an eye out for wildflowers blooming along the way. The colors of these beautiful flowers are sure to catch your attention and add an extra touch of beauty to your walk. In addition to wildflowers, you can also spot various forms of wildlife such as birds and small woodland animals.

Camping in Arrow Lakes Provincial Park

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning interior lies Arrow Lakes Provincial Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its picturesque setting overlooking the lake and surrounded by towering mountains, this park offers visitors a truly unique camping experience. With a total number of 17 sites, it’s an ideal setting for RVers who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing modern conveniences. And, if you’re a pet lover, you’ll be pleased to know that this campground is pet-friendly.

The camping area in Arrow Lakes Provincial Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets available on site, visitors are guaranteed to have a comfortable stay while they immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park. The water faucets also make it easy for campers to access clean drinking water throughout their stay.

But what really makes this camping area special is its close proximity to all kinds of exciting recreational activities. Visitors can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters by swimming, canoeing or boating. And if you’re an avid angler, then you’ll love the opportunities for sport fishing that abound here.

Fishing in Arrow Lakes

The stunning 230-km long Arrow Lakes is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts who want to experience the thrill and excitement of catching numerous species of fish. The lakes is home to Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout, Dolly Varden, Kokanee, Burbot, Char and many more. These species usually range from 2-7 kg making it an ideal spot for both experienced anglers and beginners.

The best time to fish in Arrow Lakes varies according to the season and type of fish you want to catch. For instance, the peak time for catching kokanee salmon is during late summer or early fall while Rainbow trout can be caught throughout the year.

April to October is the perfect time to visit Arrow Lakes and enjoy its majestic beauty. This beautiful region has a delightful climate throughout this period, making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring in Arrow Lakes is breathtaking with warm temperatures, lush greenery, and blooming wildflowers that will make your heart skip a beat.

Summer is the peak tourist season in Arrow Lakes as the temperature rises slightly, creating ideal conditions for water sports activities such as swimming, kayaking or canoeing on pristine waters of The Lake. Moreover, hiking through the surrounding mountains provides stunning views of wildlife including bighorn sheep and herds of elk.

As autumn approaches towards late September and early October the weather cools down but still remains pleasant enough to take advantage of many outdoor adventures before winter sets in.