Jen Tirschman

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to share important updates on two key assets that support tourism, recreation, and local economic activity: the Sicamous Ferry Society and the Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail.

These projects continue to evolve and play a vital role in connecting our community while enhancing the visitor experience in the region.

Sicamous Ferry Operations – Seasonal Access 

The Sicamous Ferry remains a valued and unique transportation link, offering seasonal service from April through September between downtown Sicamous and the north end of the Rail Trail (km 0.5).

OPEN NOW!

April –  Friday, Sat & Sun 9am-5pm

May – Daily 9am-5pm

June, July, Aug – Daily 8am-6pm

September – Daily 9am-5pm

Ferry pick up every 20 minutes at Martin Street Public Boat Launch and Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail 0.5km marker. Daily ferry schedules begin and end at Martin Street.

PAY ATTENTION TO FINAL DEPARTURE TIMES!

Be sure to make other arrangements for return trips after daily ferry service ends. The end time indicates final drop off, not pick up.
Final pick up at Martin Street will be 20 minutes before end of day.

This service provides an important access point for residents and visitors looking to explore the trail without needing to navigate alternate crossings. However, users should be aware of several considerations:

• Limited capacity may result in delays during peak periods
• Parking constraints near ferry access points
• Steep grades and loading conditions that may impact accessibility for some users

The Chamber encourages businesses to help set expectations with customers and guests planning to incorporate the ferry into their travel or recreational plans.

Rail Trail Progress – Growth with Ongoing Construction

The Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail is a transformative regional project, designed to eventually connect communities from Sicamous to Osoyoos. While significant progress has been made, the trail remains partially completed, with approximately 19.8 km currently open across three non-contiguous sections.

Open Sections Include:

• Sicamous to Mara Lake (km 0.5–14.8): Open for walking and cycling with caution
• Enderby–Splatsin Pilot Section (km 35.5–40.5): A scenic and completed loop from Belvidere Park
• Armstrong–Lansdowne Road (km 49.15–50.15): A short but important 1 km connector

Construction, Delays & What’s Ahead

The largest unfinished portion of the trail—stretching between Mara Lake and Enderby—remains under active construction, with a target completion of late 2026. However, the final segment (approximately 6.5 km) is still pending funding, which could extend full project completion to 2028.

Access Considerations & Safety Reminders

Due to ongoing construction and natural terrain, trail users should take precautions:

• Obey all posted signage and closures
• Be aware of hazards such as loose rock, steep slopes, and wildlife
• Stay on designated trails and avoid restricted or private areas
• Watch for natural hazards, including poison ivy along shoreline sections
• Keep dogs leashed and pack out all waste

When ferry service is not available, alternate access to the Sicamous section is limited, with the primary option via Folland Road (km 2.8), which may involve controlled traffic conditions. Follow Ferry Society on Facebook for more information

Supporting Local Business Through Transition

While construction and access limitations may present short-term challenges, these projects are expected to significantly enhance Sicamous’ appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation and tourism.

The Chamber encourages local businesses to:

• Stay informed and share updates with customers
• Adjust offerings to align with accessible trail sections
• Promote safe and responsible use of community assets

Short-term disruption on Rail Trail will lead to long-term opportunity, strengthening Sicamous as a hub for visitors seeking authentic, active, and connected experiences.