The RW Bruhn Bridge over the Sicamous Narrows. (Image Credit: District of Sicamous)

By Victor Kaisar

Pedestrian Ferry Pilot

New free ferry pilot to launch in Sicamous as construction continues on RW Bruhn Bridge

Jun 23, 2025 | 6:04 PM

SICAMOUS, B.C. — The newly established Sicamous Ferry Society is preparing to offer a free service to transport residents and visitors between downtown, the Sicamous Beach Park, and the beginning of the Shuswap North Okanagan Rail Trail.

The ferry will operate on a continuous loop from the public boat launch at the west end of Finlayson Street downtown towards the Sicamous Beach Park further north, and the rail trail on the other side of the Sicamous Narrows.

“The rail trail is currently open at kilometre 0.5, as safe access and parking options are pending completion of the R.W. Bruhn Bridge project,” Campton Hancock, the Communications & Legislative Coordinator at the District of Sicamous told CFJC Today.

“The primary trip is from Finlayson Street to the Sicamous Beach Park. Access to the rail trail will be on an as-requested basis.”

The addition of the ferry comes as the existing sidewalk that allows pedestrian access to Sicamous Beach Park from downtown where most parking lots are is temporarily closed because of construction. Vehicle access via Silver Sands Road is still possible at this time.

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In a news release, the District of Sicamous said this ferry will operate as a pilot project this summer so people can safely access “key recreational areas” while work on the bridge takes place. Crews are expected to move to a summer construction schedule this week.

“We built this ferry with a vision to create yet another unique and memorable experience for anyone who explores our region,” Mike Miltimore, the chair of the Sicamous Ferry Society, said. “It’s Sicamous craftsmanship with a purpose.”

There will be an inaugural ferry run sometime this month, ahead of its maiden public voyage on July 2. It’s expected to operate seven days a week between 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. until the middle of September, and will carry a maximum of 12 people per trip.

“We’re stronger together, and excited for this made-in-Sicamous ferry pilot project,” Sicamous Mayor Colleen Anderson added.

“Sicamous will have a unique, fun, safe and reliable access to the Sicamous Beach Park and the rail trial, and we thank all those who made this possible for our community and visitors to enjoy.”