The element of water has shaped these lands from its solid-state as glaciers in the highest peaks to its flowing form in lakes and rivers. Along with these movements, migrations of wildlife and people have settled and shaped this area into the home they know today and have known for thousands of years
As guests in the Land of Hidden Waters, we explore with etiquette and share the area responsibly. Here are our suggestions on how to responsibly and sustainably visit this region, British Columbia, and wherever else your adventures may take you.
locallY groWn
Whether you’re buying goods to take home or perishables to feed hungry adventurer appetites, shopping local is important to support the communities you visit. In addition to hidden waters, there are plenty of home-grown, locally made hidden gems to be found on your journey. Be sure to ask the owners of your accommodation or anyone in the region where to find artisans, locally sourced food, wine, craft beers, and other goods.
finD FooD & gooDs grOwn nEArbY
leave nO traCe
Some of the most well-known principles of the outdoor industry are the Leave No Trace Principles. Leave No Trace Canada is “a national non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and inspiring responsible outdoor recreation through education, research, and partnerships. Leave No Trace builds awareness, appreciation and respect for our wildlands.” The principles are as follows:
the TEN essEntiAlS
Whether you’re going into the backcountry or car camping, much of our region does not have cell phone services so you must be prepared for anything. The Ten Essentials reflect modern technology and it’s a good idea to keep these items stored in the car for emergencies any time of year.
01. NAVIGATION
Map, compass, altimeter, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
02. Headlamp
Plus extra batteries
03. Sun Protection
Sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen
04. First Aid
Including foot care and insect repellent
05. Knife
Plus gear repair kit
06. Fire
Matches, lighter, tinder and/or stove
07. Shelter
Carried at all times (can be a light emergency bivy)
08. Extra Food
Beyond the minimum expectation
09. Extra Water
Beyond the minimum expectation
10. Extra Clothes
Beyond the minimum expectation
cUlturAl respeCt
And UndERstanDinG
In any aspect of travel, understanding the cultures of past and present residents, history, and their relationship to the land is integral to a respectful and impactful experience. A great way to gain this understanding is by doing a tour or visiting a museum that is run by or in cooperation with Indigenous locals.
In the Land of Hidden Waters, we recommend visiting the Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park in Kamloops or by taking a tour with Moccasin Trails Tours. Discover a meaningful connection between people, water, and wildlife at the Simpcw Fish Hatchery at Dunn Lake which is run by the Simpcw First Nation. If you’re visiting in August, consider catching the Kamloops Pow Wow.
Download the below PDFs to your phone or computer to take with you on future adventures, or print them to keep in the car or trailer!
