Nicola Lake (North End)

Nicola Lake lies 65 km south of Kamloops via Highway 5A.    It is a large lake that angles northeast to southwest, 22 km in length.    Steep hills rise on both sides.    It is fed by the Nicola River and is dammed at the south end.    It is a deeper lake, and its long, narrow shape in the valley bottom leads quite often to windy conditions

Directions/Launch:

Drive south on Highway 5A.     There are several launch spots to the lake just off the Highway on the east side.    The first launch is on the right about 0.7 km after coming to the lakeshore.    The boat launch is suitable for kayaks and there is lots of parking.

The Lake

This can be a windy lake.    Check the wind forecast in advance.    Arrive early.    The winds pick up by 11:00 am, or earlier.    Paddle the shoreline for safety.    Cross the lake in calm conditions.    Since the lake is large, I paddle the north end one day and the other parts of the lake on different days, from different launches.

Pros

  • This is scenic lake with a good opportunities for good weather.
  • There are less homes on the north end of the lake.
  • It is one of the first ice-off lakes in the area.

 

Cons

  • Both Nicola and Stump Lakes are known for windy conditions.
  • The lake can be busy at prime times.
  • Highway noise is present at busy travel times.

 

Some Images:

 

 

 

A Nicola Lake Video:

 

 

 

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