Park overview
Coldwater River Park protects a representative portion of a river valley ecosystem. The valley is recognized as having high potential for outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Coldwater River runs north alongside the highway with its source being the Coquihalla Lakes. The area provides opportunities for fishing and nature and historical interpretation.
Advisories
Safety info
- Bring your own drinking water as potable water is not available in the park.
Activities
The river is shallow and gravel-bottomed, providing good steelhead spawning habitat. Fishing is for steelhead. Anyone fishing or angling in British Columbia must have an appropriate licence.
Coldwater River Park is located 50 km south of Merritt on Highway #5, just north of the tollbooths.
Learn more about this park
Park details
- Date established: May 15, 1986
- Size: 69 hectares
Nature and culture
History
Coldwater River was established as a Class A park in 1986.
Cultural Heritage
This area is part of the Coldwater First Nation’s territory. It is part of their traditional fishing area. There is historical significance relating to the Kettle Valley Railway.
Conservation
Protects important riparian areas including river wildlife habitats and steelhead spawning.
Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples
BC Parks honours Indigenous Peoples’ connection to the land and respects the importance of their diverse teachings, traditions, and practices within these territories. This park webpage may not adequately represent the full history of this park and the connection of Indigenous Peoples to this land. We are working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to update our websites so that they better reflect the history and cultures of these special places.