Paddling out from McArthur Island in high water means paddling vigorously upsteam, but it is quite doable, even past the confluence of the rivers and beyond.   On the way back downstream, the route was down the north side of Rabbit Island.   In winter and early spring, it is possible to wade over to the island in no more than knee-deep water.  At this time the island has in its largest area, with large sandy beaches on the north side.   At high flood, the north side is partly submerged and there are channels through the middle of the island.  The highest and driest spots are on the south side, but a paddler can still beach on the north side directly opposite McArthur Island and hike across the island in a circuit.   Last year’s fire has left some blackened stumps on the south end, but it is still a nice area to visit and linger on the shores on a sunny day.    No rabbits, some deer, lots of birds.    This is a must do for all explorers in the Kamloops area.