When the North and South Thompson Rivers rise from the spring melt, the boat launch at McArthur Island can be used to access the Thompson River.

During freshet, the volume of watyer increases and the current is stronger.   Once we enter the river, we look for slower water to progress upstream.   The north side shoreline can be followed towards Overlander Bridge, a good workout.   We enter the main flow and go across the river to come down the channel on the south side of Rabbit Island.   The current is slowest next to the island.

At the west end of Rabbit Island, we turn the corner to come back up the shoreline.   The current is slower right next to the island, although the water is quite shallow.   We enjoy paddling right around the island.   When the river is very high, some of the interior channels of the island fill with water and we can explore them (article).

The Rabbit Island Circuit is about 6 km.   We could do an extra lap around the island or go downstream farther and could easily extend the paddle to 10km.   The upstream sections add a good strength and endurance workout.