Outdoor Adventures
The Fraser Valley is surrounded by vast mountain ranges with the mighty Fraser River at the centre of it all. Those seeking adventures in the great outdoors will find it here by land and by water.
Paddle & Kayak
A vast number of rivers, lakes, streams and waterfalls flow over the Fraser Valley’s topography. Find serenity paddling along shorelines covered in green grasses and dense brush as you listen to the lap of waves. Advanced paddlers may want to tackle the fast and challenging waters of parts of the Chehalis and Chilliwack rivers. Our mild climate makes it possible for paddlers and kayakers of all skill levels and abilities to explore the valley’s waterways in any season.
Locations
- Sasquatch Provincial Park: paddle in the pocket lakes tucked into the forest and mountain ranges of Harrison
- Hicks Lake: a great spot in Harrison for canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking
- Harrison: the largest lake in Southwestern British Columbia
- Stave: a great spot near Mission that offers camping and hiking trails
Rentals
Located on the banks of some of the best paddling destinations in British Columbia, our communities have you covered with kayak, canoe, stand up paddleboard, paddle boat and other watercraft rentals. Join a workshop or steer your own adventure by transporting your watercraft to nearby lakes and tributaries.
Don’t Forget
Always wear a lifejacket or personal floatation device when venturing out onto the water. Weather conditions can change quickly, so check the forecast before your trip and be ready to head back to shore if the conditions warrant a change of course. Find more water safety guidelines here.
Walking & Hiking
The Fraser Valley’s backdrop of verdant forests are a breath of fresh air for adventurers seeking a wilderness escape. Experienced and novice outdoors enthusiasts can trek up rugged forest trails to gaze upon awe-inspiring views of the valley and nearby mountain ranges. There are also ample scenic strolls that wind along shorelines or through trees alive with the calls of birds and other forest creatures.
Trail
- Manning Provincial Park: a popular spot near Hope for day hikes and forest walks
- Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park: featuring a breathtaking waterfall
- Cultus Lake Provincial Park: has various beginner to backcountry treks
- Sasquatch Provincial Park: contains a wide range of difficulties in their trails
- Sumas Mountain Regional Park: Features Chadsey Lake Trail, and breathtaking views of Abbotsford and east Fraser Valley
Staying Safe
Always plan ahead before embarking on a hike. Bring plenty of food and water to keep well-hydrated and fuelled. Plan for the conditions by checking the weather forecast before heading out, and always bring extra layers just in case the temperature drops. Find more hiking safety tips at adventuresmart.ca.
Mountain Biking & Cycle Tours
British Columbia is known around the world as a premier downhill and mountain biking destination, and the Fraser Valley has some of the most technically challenging trails as well as best beginner-friendly options. The valley’s temperate climate also makes it a great choice all year long. Tune your bike at any of the local shops, and refuel and rehydrate at some of the many apres-ride eateries and breweries the valley has to offer—exceptional hospitality included.
Where to Ride
The Fraser Valley Mountain Bikers Association has built an inclusive mountain biking culture and a sustainable trail network for all to enjoy. Their website lists information and maps for 1,348 trails—from beginner to double black diamonds—that cover over 3,300 kilometres, 92,109 metres of descent and 2,442 metres of vertical.
- Vedder Mountain: near Chilliwack
- Sumas Mountain and Ledgeview Mountain: near Abbotsford
- Red Mountain: near Mission
- Bear Mountain: near Mission
- Syéxw Chó:leqw Adventure Park: near Ruby Creek in Hope, this is a family-friendly option designed for riders of all abilities
Cycle Tours
Take out the guesswork and minimize planning time while optimizing adventure and fun by taking a cycle tour. The Agassiz Circle Farm Tour Bike Route combines education and culinary experiences on a tour of local farms. That’s one way to get ‘moooving’.
Winter Adventure
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