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A new year – time for a new way to experience winter! From snowy peaks to lush green forests, The Fraser Valley is awash with a myriad of experiences, catering to both adventurous spirits seeking outdoor thrills and those looking for exciting post-holiday indulgence. In the Valley’s temperate climate, our communities come alive with unique, only-in-the-Valley activities that add a touch of magic to this enchanting time of year.

Here’s just a handful of exciting Winter activities for you and your family, your chill chums, or just a little post-holiday “me time.”

Cover Photo: @nancy.on.thetrail on top of Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford

@bakerchucksfluff

Winter Fishing in Chilliwack

Why wait until spring to catch the big one? Rivers and lakes around Chilliwack are teeming with the potential of tonight’s dinner. The Vedder River happens to be the most productive Steelhead stream in the Lower Mainland, while the Fraser River backwaters is the place for Coastal Cutthroat Trout and White Sturgeon. Guided tours are also available to make the most of your trip.  Whether you’re a seasoned angler or you have no idea where the hook even goes, expert guides can enhance your fishing experience, providing insights into the best spots and techniques for a successful day on the water.

For information on fishing licenses in BC, please visit Go Fish BC. To plan your next fishing adventure in Chilliwack, check out Fishing BC.

@nikonglenn

A Frozen Waterfall in Mission

A short one-kilometer hike – through an enchanted winter forest no less! – leads to one of the most magical frozen waterfalls you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Cascade Falls Park is 22 hectares of exploration with multiple viewing platforms for that perfect shot, and a suspension bridge over the creek for that shot of adrenaline. With any luck, you may even catch sight of some of the critters that call this Winter Wonderland home.

Cross Country Ski at Manning Park

Manning Park Resort in the heart of the Cascade Mountains boasts one of British Columbia’s most picturesque Nordic centres. With a trail network covering 64 kilometers of pristine trails, there’s no better way to experience the tranquillity of a Canadian Winter than strapping on a pair of skis and heading into the trees. And this January, the Nordic Bus Tour makes it easy by combining your transportation, accommodation and trail tickets for one low price!

@rlpwolstencroft

Snow Tubing at Sasquatch Mountain 

Looking to hit the slopes but downhill skiing just isn’t your family’s thing? Just a short 45-minute drive from Harrison Hot Springs takes you to The Tube Park at Sasquatch Mountain Resort – the most thrilling time you can have sitting down!  Eight epic lanes make this tube park one of the largest in BC, complete with stunning panoramic views of the Hemlock Valley below.

Outdoor Wine Cabana in Abbotsford

Spoil yourself at BC’s first-ever wine cabanas at Singletree Winery. You’ll get all the cozy winter feels tucked away in your own wooden cabana complete with blankets and a personal fire pit (over which you can roast marshmallows for s’mores!) Also available are delicious bites and mulled drinks to warm your belly. What are you doing for Valentine’s Day?

Alpine Ice Skating at Manning Park

Is there a more quintessential Canadian Winter activity than to ice skate in the mountains? Surrounded by fir trees and snowbanks, the outdoor rink at Manning Park is open all day and into the evening to glide and twirl, or just do everything you can to stay upright, all under gorgeous starry skies. Of course, Mother Nature needs to cooperate, so check Manning’s conditions page for up-to-date information on weather and ice conditions – as well as any special mountain events that might enhance your alpine adventure! 

*Please note that the outdoor rink is only available to Manning Park Resort guests, so book your stay now!

@zuckshot

Snowshoeing on Sumas Mountain

Many of the Fraser Valley’s year-round hiking trails are particularly beautiful when covered in the white stuff. And arguably the most fun way to experience them in winter is to get out a pair of snowshoes! The upper regions of Sumas Mountain’s 1,471 hectares provide ample opportunity. Snow-packed trails make this a great adventure for all skill levels. If you’ve only ever hiked the Fraser Valley in the greener months, come see it in a whole new light!

@bcbeautiful

Snowshoeing Elk Mountain Trail

For the more experienced snowshoer, Elk Mountain near Chilliwack offers more challenging mountain adventures on dedicated trails under snowy evergreens and down through wide meadows, all the while beckoning you to pause for breathtaking views.

@whlgiants

Vancouver Giants Game

No list of Canadian winter activities would be complete without an evening at the good ol’ hockey game! Catch the stars of tomorrow as they battle through the ranks of the Western Hockey League at the home of the Vancouver Giants at the Langley Events Centre. It’s a great way to take in some high-level action at an affordable price in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Harrison Hot Springs Mineral Pool

Not all winter activities in the Fraser Valley need you to brave the elements! The indoor public mineral pool at Harrison Hot Springs is kept at a balmy 38 degrees Celsius, perfect for soaking after a full day of outdoor adventures. Rejuvenate in the calming waters of the area revered as “the healing place” by the local Sts’ailes First Nations.

Of course, whenever you venture out into the mountains safety is always paramount. Before step one of your winter adventure in the Fraser Valley, always check Avalanche Canada for the latest weather and snowpack conditions, as well as invaluable safety tips and information.

We can’t wait to see you in 2024! For more information on these and other winter activities in the Fraser Valley, visit thefraservalley.ca. 

We respectfully acknowledge that we live, work, play and travel on the traditional, ancestral, unceded and shared territories of the Katzie, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo, Leq’á:mel, Sema:th, Matheqwí, Qwó:ltl’el, Sq’éwlets, Aitchelitz, Shxwha:y, Skowkale, Squiala, Soowahlie, Tzeachten, Yakweakwioose, Cheam, Skwah, Kwaw Kwaw apilt, Douglas, Seabird Island, Sts’Ailes, Samahquam, Sq’ewá:lxw, Skatin, Chawathil, Shxw’ow’hamel, Xwoxwela:lhp, Peters, Popkum, Skawahlook, Spuzzum, Boston Bar, and Boothroyd First Nations.