The Thompson River system offers some of BC's most exciting whitewater paddling, with the North and South Thompson providing distinct experiences before joining at Kamloops. The North Thompson features continuous Class II-III rapids through dramatic canyon country with excellent roadside access, while the South Thompson offers gentler touring through arid grassland valleys. The main Thompson below Kamloops provides big-water paddling through desert landscapes with occasional challenging rapids. Peak season runs from May through September with snowmelt providing optimal flows. Highway access makes this system highly accessible to paddlers of all levels.
Thompson River is estimated at Intermediate. Whitewater ratings are not exact: grades change with water level and season. Verify current conditions locally before you paddle.
The best time is May-September.
Thompson River is located in the Interior region of Canada.
bcwhitewater.org · thompsonriver.ca
Conditions change with water level and season. Grades and positions are for planning, not navigation. Verify locally before you paddle. Terms of use
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