Lower Arrow Lake
The 232-kilometre-long Arrow Lakes system, made up of the Upper and Lower lakes, runs through a lush valley nestled in the Selkirk Mountains. Near the southern terminus of Lower Arrow Lake is the city of Castlegar, which is famous for its angling and paddling offerings. The largest kokanee salmon in the world was caught on this lake, which is why so often you can spy kayakers, canoeists and even stand up paddleboarders trolling a fishing line behind them.
The gate for this area is closed from 10 pm to 7 am daily from May to September, and typically left open from October to April. General operating dates may vary.
This awe inspiring natural stone arch is a short hike up from the lake. The trail traverses across dry, steep slopes and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Rounding the last curve in the trail, the huge stone arch comes into sight. The view of it from the lake does not do justice to this amazing geological formation, which is 3m wide (10 feet), 6m (20 feet) thick and stretches 45 m (148 feet) across the gully. Launch from the beach at Deer Park, cross the lake (note that strong winds can sometimes blow up unexpectedly) just north of the mouth of Pup Creek look for the "Renata Natural Arch Recreation Trail" sign on the beach.
Situated between Robson and Syringa Park on the north shore of Lower Arrow Lake, Scotties Marina offers kayak and SUP rentals, a vacation suite, a store, and more.
The Labarthe Tunnel is a former rail tunnel that predates the hydroelectric dams. Located on the south shore of Arrow Lake, across from Scottie's Marina, the tunnel is 187 feet long or 57 metres. Most of the time it's submerged during high water levels but if you time it right during lower water levels, you can paddle inside it.