Voices of the Land: Indigenous Experiences in the Fraser Valley

Before the Fraser Valley

Well before this territory was ever called the Fraser Valley, it was known by its Halq’eméylem name, S’ólh Téméxw, meaning “our land” or “our world.”

For us, that name serves as a reminder that our organization stems from a lineage of settlers and visitors to this area, the traditional, ancestral land that was first home to the Stó:lō, Nlaka’pamux, Sts’ailes and St’at’imc Peoples.

As settlers and visitors, we therefore acknowledge our duty to treat this land and its first people with the utmost respect and gratitude. When you visit, we hope you’ll show that same respect and encourage those who come after you to do likewise.

The Fraser Valley is (and has always been) filled with Indigenous voices, history and heritage. As we continue to encourage both locals and visitors to connect with the land, nature, and culture here, we look to our Indigenous community, and its elders, for how to do this respectfully and honourably.  

We’ll soon be recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30) once more, so we wanted to assemble a list of local experiences that highlight Indigenous artists, stories, and traditions that you can support any time of year. We highly recommend visiting these spots to renew your sense of place and get a refresher of how lucky we all are to be on the unceded lands of Indigenous peoples.

Cultural Experiences

Trethewey House: The River People and the Land: Living within S’ólh Téméxw exhibition – Abbotsford

Home to a new permanent exhibit about the strength and history of the Stó:lō people, the engaging presentations here seek to give ownership of the home’s beautiful grounds back to those who first lived in the area. 

Stó:lō Tourism & Coqualeetza Grounds Trail – Chilliwack

Take a guided tour led by a community storyteller through an immersive experience of history and heritage. Through each informative step, you’ll learn about the art, culture,  and language of the Stó:lō people.

Harrison Visitor Information Centre & Sasquatch Museum & Sts’ailes Longhouse – Harrison River Valley

Opened in 2024, this new community hub welcomes visitors and locals to discover the fascinating facts and folklore of the area. You’ll first take a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Sts’ailes Longhouse, then read all about first-hand accounts and legends of the always elusive Sasquatch creature!

Sts’ailes Cultural Tours – Harrison River Valley

Considered the “beating heart” of the Harrison River Valley, this Indigenous business group covers everything you need to get the most out of your visit, from kayak tours to eagle watching groups to drum-making workshops.

Art & Culture

Spirit Bear Designs – Abbotsford

Known for their gorgeous woodworking and jewelry making, this is the perfect spot to find a unique gift made by talented  artists from the  Mohawk Nation.

Frettchan Studios – Abbotsford

Specializing in illustration, painting and mural work, this small studio is run by Nisga’a and Métis artist, Chantelle Trainor-Matties. Contact Chantelle if you’re looking for unique prints to add a bit of life and colour to your walls (she also accepts commissions!)

The Reach Gallery – Abbotsford

Hosting a rotating calendar of workshops and exhibits led by Indigenous artists, The Reach preserves and shares the stories of Abbotsford’s rich and diverse cultural heritage while showcasing work from voices both inside and outside the community. The current exhibit, Parallax(e): Perspectives on the Canada–U.S. Border, features an impressive roster of contemporary Indigenous artists, exploring the true identity of two stretching land masses that may be separated by name and politics, but are forever connected through history, nature and people.

Section 35 – Chilliwack

Founded in 2014 by Justin Jacob Louis of the Samson Cree Nation, this streetwear brand has quickly gained international acclaim with its stylish designs featured in Vogue and the Metropolitan Museum of New York.

Stó:lō Gift Shop – Chilliwack

Offering stunning art pieces and incredible handmade and hand-carved goods by local craftspeople, you’ll find all kinds of ways to spruce up your home here.

Ruby Creek Art Gallery – Harrison River Valley

Full of intricately carved masks, handmade sculptures and paintings, this gallery shop is a great place to learn about emerging Indigenous artists, and get reacquainted with older masters of various mediums.

Outdoor Adventures 

Heritage Abbotsford – Indigenous Plant Use Tour – Abbotsford

Are you curious about the practical applications and healing powers of wild plants? This tour will take you around Mill Lake with an expert storyteller guide who will point out plants native to the area and explain how they’ve been used and cultivated over countless generations.

Good Neighbours Lhewá:mel Project – Chilliwack

With two newly added public spaces (The Gathering Place and The Welcome Portal), this community-based project seeks to foster meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous locals and visitors. Read about the area’s historical context, then reflect on your part in its future.

Chilliwack Art Tours – Chilliwack

This guided tour through Chilliwack’s public art scene will give you a new perspective on the city! Marvel at the captivating collection of murals and sculptures, including gorgeous Indigenous pieces from talented local artists. Led by local art expert Michael Berger, you’ll learn about the different styles and cultures represented across this vibrant community.

Great River Fishing Adventures – Chilliwack

Sturgeon, steelhead, salmon, trout, if you’re looking for a catch, this is the place to do it! Book yourself a guided fishing tour, and see the magnificent fish that have sustained the area for millennia. The exhilarating experiences here are sure to give you a tactile sense of place and renew your connection to the water and the land.

Syéxw Chó:leqw Adventure Park – Harrison River Valley

Located on the traditional land and territory of Sq’ewá:lxw First Nation, this area park has been connecting locals to the land since 2018. With 4,000 metres of trails filled with wooden sculptures, viewing platforms, and a 90,000-square-foot playground, the park offers an ideal opportunity for a family outing in nature.

Gather, Taste and Rest

Ravens Brewing Company – Abbotsford

Unwind with an award-winning pint after a long day of exploring. Dedicated to developing partnerships with local suppliers and businesses, this Indigenous business epitomizes what it means to be part of a community.

Sasq’ets Basket Café – Harrison River Valley

A dining experience inspired by and immersed in nature, Sasq’ets Basket Café specializes in authentic Indigenous recipes, such as medicine bowls, fresh bannock, and bison burgers.

Sasquatch Crossing Eco Lodge – Harrison River Valley

Indigenous owned and operated, this cozy B&B has nine unique rooms, and 87 tranquil acres for you to wander. The grounds also include a seasonal saltwater pool, meditation labyrinth, and walking trails where you can relax and rejuvenate. 

Fraser River Lodge – Harrison River Valley

Owned by the Cheam First Nation and located on the shore of the mighty Fraser River, this luxurious lodge has unparalleled mountain views. Book a visit if you’re looking for a comfy room filled with relaxing ambience and only minutes from Harrison Hot Springs.

Harrison Grand Motel – Harrison River Valley

Owned by Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island) First Nation, this cozy boutique motel is located just steps from the shores of Harrison Lake. A wonderful spot to start your visit to the area, you’ll never be too far from your next adventure, whether it’s kayaking on the lake or hiking through the mountain paths.

Feature image: “Hearts of the Valley” – Chantelle Trainor | Frettchan Studios