Looking for something to do in Merritt and the Nicola Valley as the days of summer start to count down? Check out these activities to keep you and your family busy!
Activities
Bird Watching
Merritt and the Nicola Valley has some of the most beautiful sceneries for bird watching.
(Williamson’s Sapsucker Pair. Photo Credit: Les Gyug)
A great place for viewing some rare bird species is near Beaver Ranch located approximately 35km north of Hwy. 5A. There are close to 200 different species of birds in the Nicola Valley including: Williamson's Sapsuckers, Common Snipes, Great Blue Herons, Osprey, and more!
Bird Watching and Organized Hikes:
Contact: Nicola Naturalist Society
Phone: 250-378-2468
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Fishing
With many lake surrounding Merritt, there are always new spots to visit and cast your line.
- Visit Shea Lake approximately 40km outside of Merritt for an amazing place to camp and fish with your family and friends. Shea Lake is regularly stocked with rainbow trout.
- Gwen Lake also offers a great fishing spot. This lake is stocked with rainbow trout and is for the experienced fishermen. There is a great view for the photographer in all of us from the shore to the grasslands across the lake.
Swimming
As the summer comes to a close, the family may want to fit in that last swimming afternoon trip. Here are some suggestions close by!
- Nicola Lake is one of the most well-known lakes surrounding Merritt. The popular location is home to Monck Provincial Park which offers a wonderful swimming spot, hiking and biking trails, camping, boating, paddle boarding, and a playground for the kids.
- Harmon Lake also offers a scenic swimming spot with camping sites. Nearby is the Harmon Lake Forest Interpretive Trail which allows hikers to walk on the southeast side of Harmon Lake and learn about forestry and wildlife.
Places to Visit
- Nicola Valley Museum & Archives
- "Visit the past without a time machine!" A place full of history, interesting facts about Merritt, and visually appealing interactive displays.
- Hours of operation Fall/Winter:
- 10:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday
- Closed Saturday, Sunday and Statutory Holidays.
- Hours of operation Fall/Winter:
- "Visit the past without a time machine!" A place full of history, interesting facts about Merritt, and visually appealing interactive displays.
- The Baillie House
- The Ballie House is not only a historic site in Merritt but also a local stop for Visitors Information. With a gift shop, free refreshments, and a great backyard to have lunch at, it is no wonder the Baillie House is ranked in the top 3 for “Things to Do in Merritt” by Trip Advisor.
(Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame)
- Country Legend Murals
- These murals are located throughout the community representing legendary country musicians. Most murals are of artists who have performed in the beautiful City of Merritt itself during past country festivals.
Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood Mural located at 2113 Quilchena Ave.)
- Walk of Stars
- The Walk of Stars is an initiative to display the handprints of musicians who performed at the iconic Merritt Mountain Music Fest over the 18 years the event was in Merritt. More than 100 bronze stars are located in plaques throughout the community.
(Walk of Stars)
Golf
- Merritt Golf & Country Club
- This golf course is centrally located in Merritt on Juniper Drive. It includes a gorgeous golf course and tennis courts!
Target Range
- Nicola Valley Rod & Gun Club Target Range
- Need a place to practice your aim for hunting season, or looking to learn how to safely use firearms? Visit Nicola Valley Rod & Gun Club Target Range promoting conservation since 1960!
- Location: 11km West of Merritt off of Hwy. 8. This business includes handgun and archery ranges.
Fall Events in Merritt
Merritt and the Nicola Valley has many events happening this Fall including:
- The Nicola Valley Pro Rodeo
- Nicola Valley Fall Fair
- Merritt Spock Car Association Speedway Races
- Lower Nicola Garlic Festival and Antique Tractor Show
- The Nicola Valley Farmers Market
Remember to visit www.tourismmerritt.ca/events to keep up to date on events in the community!
- Need a place to practice your aim for hunting season, or looking to learn how to safely use firearms? Visit Nicola Valley Rod & Gun Club Target Range promoting conservation since 1960!