In Kamloops, we can paddle on our rivers in 9 of the 12 months of the year.   With a cool spring, the first day of paddling on the river this year was the last day of March.   From Pioneer Park, the upstream paddle is easier when the flow rates are down.   With a reduced current, we can progress east on the South Thompson River more quickly, but it is still a good workout, especially early in the season as we build our paddling endurance levels.   The Valleyview Boat Launch is about 5.75 km.   The paddlewheeler Wanda Sue is berthed just east of that, a good place to turn around.

Many geese and some ducks were in pairs or small groups on the shoreline.   One great blue heron probed the shallows of the river off Shuswap Road.   The best part of paddling at this time of the year is the complete absence of power boats.   Although the river goes right through the middle of town, most sections are quiet, especially on a weekday morning.   There were 3 other kayaks on the river and one rower too.

We paddle on the river in the early season before the noisy power boats overwhelm the river.   They seem oblivious to the intrusiveness of the noise, the wake, and their speed in such a narrow space.   When they arrive on the river, we move to the upland lakes.