Lower Nicola

Visit Lower Nicola for a rustic camping retreat, a mountain hike with rewarding views, excellent fishing opportunities or the chance to experience thrilling racetrack action.  

History

Lower Nicola and the surrounding areas have been inhabited for several thousand years.  The Lower Nicola Indian Band belongs to the Swexmex (“People of the Creeks”) branch of the Nlaka’pamux (Thompson) Nation.  The Swexmex depended upon resources from the land and rivers such as salmon, game animals, roots and berries.  This required much migration throughout their territories according to the seasons, as well as trade with other Aboriginal nations.  The encroachments of gold rush miners and the outbreak of smallpox had a significant impact on land and population size.  

Today, the Lower Nicola Indian Band strives to maintain the rich cultural traditions of the Swexmex while generating prosperity and wellbeing for their community.

Things To Do

Merritt Speedway.

For a fast paced experience, take in a stock car race at the 3/8-mile clay-surfaced track.  Many of the sport’s biggest names have raced at Merritt Speedway, enjoying the challenges a short track offers.  Special events include Monster Trucks, Night of Destruction and Fourth of July Fireworks.  Races are held every Saturday night from May to September.

GeoTourism.

The Gold Country GeoTourism Program gives visitors the opportunity to explore some of Gold Country’s most spectacular locations while hunting down hidden caches and learning about sites of interest.  Caches at Craigmont Mine and the Promontory Lookout in the Lower Nicola area are well worth discovering.

Recreation

Smith's Pioneer Park.

Test your skills at horseshoes in the official size pits, or play a game of tennis or baseball. There is also a playground here for the family to enjoy.

Promontory Mountain.

Known for its spectacular views of Merritt and surrounding mountains, a drive here is 4 X 4 vehicle territory.

Chataway Lake (Aberdeen Road).

There are many crystal clear fishing lakes stocked with rainbow trout surrounding Chataway Lake that make this an ideal location for a fishing adventure.

Spius Creek Hatchery.

The Spius Creek Hatchery helps stock local rivers with coho and chinook salmon.  Follow a self-guided tour for an insight into the salmon habitat of the area.

Winter Fun

Chataway Lake.

The area offers snowmobiling, skating, tobogganing and fantastic ice fishing opportunities during the winter months.

Dining & Accommodation

For a western feel and great food, visit the Hitch ‘N’ Post Restaurant. Try some tasty pub food at the Aberdeen Inn (318 Aberdeen Rd.  Phone: 250-378-2868).  

A rugged camping and cabin experience gives visitors the opportunity to spend some time with nature at Chataway Lake.

Key Facts

Population: <1000

Elevation: ranges from 568m at the Nicola River to 1734m at the top of Promontory Hill

Amenities:

• Grocery Stores
• Service Station
• Shopping
• Recreation: Arena, Community Park, Horseshoe Pits, Tennis Court, Driving Range