Sicamous Lookout: The Best Viewpoint in the Shuswap (No Hike Required!)

If you’re cruising through the North Okanagan or the Shuswap, the Sicamous Lookout is an absolute gem! Tucked in the mountains just behind the lakeside town of Sicamous, this old hang-gliding launch spot has some of the best views of Shuswap Lake, Mara Lake, and the Eagle River—with barely any walking involved.

Unreal Shuswap views without the sweat? Yes, please!

It’s a roadside stops that feels a bit like a secret. One minute you’re on a dusty forest service road, and the next you’re staring out over the whole valley like you’ve just climbed a mountain. Except, you didn’t!

Know Before You Go

Okay, calling Sicamous Lookout a “trail” might be a stretch—but it’s still an adventure! You’ll want to be ready for gravel roads, zero guardrails, and great views! Here’s the quick and dirty:

Trail Stats

• Location: Just outside Sicamous, BC
• Distance: Less than 500 m from the road
• Driving Time: About 20 minutes from downtown Sicamous
• Parking: Small pullout just up the road from the lookout
• Difficulty: Easy (but the drive is gravel!)
• Trail Type: Out-and-back
• Season: Best from May to October

What Is the Sicamous Lookout?

You know those places that feel like they shouldn’t be real because the views are just too good? Yeah—this is one of those!

Sicamous Lookout is a wooden platform perched high above the valley, just outside of town. It was originally built for hang gliders (because launching yourself off a mountain was apparently a casual weekend hobby in the ’70s and ’80s).

These days, it’s a go-to spot for soaking in panoramic views of Shuswap Lake, Mara Lake, the Eagle River, and the colourful patchwork of Sicamous down below. You might even catch paragliders launching off the ramp on a summer day.

And no, you don’t need hiking boots to get here. The platform’s only a short walk from the road—less than 500 metres. It’s more of a mini off-road adventure than a hike and regular cars can usually handle it just fine in the summer.

How to Get to Sicamous Lookout

Sicamous Lookout is tucked in the mountains right behind town and it’s surprisingly easy to get to—if you’re comfortable with a gravel road or two. The whole drive takes about 20 minutes from downtown Sicamous.

From the Trans-Canada Highway, turn north onto Sicamous-Solsqua Road. Cross the bridge and the train tracks, then stay right at the Old Town Road split to stay on Sicamous-Solsqua. After that, take a left onto the Forestry Access Road. Follow it for 6.2 km, then turn left again onto Old Logging Road. The lookout is another 1.6 km from there.

Best to Google Maps it since the logging roads don’t have signage.

Keep your eyes peeled—the wooden ramp is tucked just below the road and easy to miss. Look for a small pullout on the left where you can park and walk back (it’s less than 500 m). There’s no trailhead sign or parking lot. Just a narrow shoulder and a whole lot of views waiting for you.

Best Time to Visit Sicamous Lookout

If you’re planning a trip to the Shuswap or looking for the best viewpoints in the North Okanagan, the Sicamous Lookout should be on your list. The best time to visit is between May and October when the roads are clear and the valley views stretch for miles.

For the best photos of Shuswap Lake, Mara Lake, and the town of Sicamous, aim for early morning or golden hour. The low light makes the landscape pop and it’s usually quieter too—perfect for a peaceful picnic or a quick photo stop.

Late summer can bring wildfire smoke to the area, so keep an eye on air quality before heading out. And while it might look tempting in winter, the lookout is only accessible by snowmobile or snowshoes once the snow hits.

If you’re looking for easy-access scenic viewpoints in Sicamous, this one’s a stunner—as long as the season cooperates.

A Quick Word on Safety

Sicamous Lookout is wild and beautiful—but it’s not exactly safety-first. The old wooden hang gliding platform has no guardrails and the edges drop straight down. There’s also some rot starting to show, so step carefully and don’t let kids or pets wander.

Also, you’re on an active logging road. If you run into a logging truck, they have the right of way—always. Drive slowly, pull over as far as you can, and avoid blocking the road when you park.

Even though you’ll have cell service most of the way, it’s always a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. If you’re heading up solo, bring a way to communicate just in case. A satellite communicator or radio isn’t overkill when you’re out on back roads.

What to Bring to Sicamous Lookout

Since you won’t be hiking far, there’s no need to go full backcountry mode. But you’re still heading up a forest service road in the North Okanagan, so a little prep goes a long way.

Here’s what I recommend tossing in your bag:

• Water and snacks – Especially if you’re sticking around for golden hour or a little picnic
• Camera or phone – You’ll want it. The Shuswap Lake views are chef’s kiss
• Bug spray – The mosquitoes can be sneaky in early summer
• Layers – It can get windy and chilly up top, even on warm days
• Bear spray – You probably won’t need it, but this is the Shuswap
• Offline map or GPS – Cell service is usually solid, but it’s still a backroad

If you’re exploring more remote forest service roads in the North Okanagan, having a radio is a good safety habit to get into. It’s not required for Sicamous Lookout—but it’s highly recommended when you’re sharing the road with logging trucks.

Other Things to Do in Sicamous

If you’re heading to Sicamous Lookout, why not turn it into a full Shuswap adventure? There’s way more to this lakeside town than just the view (though let’s be honest—it’s a really good view).

Here are a few easy add-ons for your day:

• Hit the beach – Sicamous Beach is great little public beach right in downtown Sicamous, perfect for a dip in Shuswap Lake.
• Grab a treat – D Dutchmen Dairy is a local classic for ice cream and old-school charm.
• Walk the waterfront – The Sicamous RiverFront Nature Park is an easy stroll with boardwalks, bridges, and wildlife.
• Geocache around down – There are tons of geocaches around town! Bring a pen and keep your eyes peeled.
• Visit the Farmer’s Market – If you time it right, there’s a farmer’s market with food trucks and live music every Friday.
• Rent a houseboat – Okay, not a quick stop—but did you know Sicamous is the Houseboat Capital of Canada?

There are tons of fun little corners to explore around town, especially in the summer. If you’re planning a trip to Sicamous, BC, this lookout is a great way to start—or end—the day.

Final Thoughts on Sicamous Lookout

Whether you’re road-tripping through the North Okanagan, chasing views of Shuswap Lake, or just looking for a low-effort, high-reward adventure—Sicamous Lookout is it! It’s a rare spot that’s both epic and easily accessible.

It’s perfect for a solo recharge, a chill hang with friends, or even a dreamy date night. In fact, with those sweeping lake views and golden hour lighting, it’s kinda the ideal engagement spot. Just sayin’.

So toss a few snacks in your daypack, take it slow on the logging road, and get ready for one of the best views in the Shuswap. You’re gonna love it!