As winter approaches, thoughts may turn to a staycation snuggling under a blanket with a cup of hot cocoa and a roaring fire, shielded from the winter weather—for some. For other more adventurous spirits, it’s a time to get excited about all of the frosty fun to be had throughout the Fraser Valley. From flying down the slopes of majestic mountains to tranquil walks in the silence of the forest, there’s always something to stir the soul of the hibernate-averse.
Let’s go walking through a winter wonderland of five Valley communities, each with unique ways to enjoy the season.
Sledding is a quintessential winter bit of outdoor adventure for good reason. All you need is a trusty toboggan, a gentle slope and a good dump of snow. Luckily, that’s not hard to find in Langley. Two parks within the Township offer not only an exhilarating ride but plenty of scenic space for the whole family to play in. Campbell Valley Park is located on 16th Avenue and features gently rolling hills perfect for young children or those who prefer to take it slow. As does Routley Park at 200 Street and 70 Avenue, a favourite among locals with its welcoming, family atmosphere.
High above Abbotsford sits the stately Sumas Mountain, only minutes from the city, but with all the enthralling beauty of a “remote” wilderness. That, and the diversity of trails, makes for a perfect winter outdoor activity area for any age or skill level. The Chadsey Lake Trail leads to a serene lake that is pure magic when it freezes over, while the Eastern Lookout Trail offers unbeatable panoramic views of the Valley below. And best of all, the trails are not quite as popular as they are in summertime, so you can really find an escape in the peaceful solitude of winter.
Chilliwack in all its snowy goodness has great winter hiking. Popular routes include the Elk Mountain trail that leads to sweeping views of the Chilliwack River Valley and majestic snow-capped peaks in the distance. For the less vertically inclined, the Vedder Rotary Loop Trail is a leisurely stroll along the riverside, through mystical forests and over bridges atop icy waters. While beautiful, winter hiking always poses unique challenges, so you’ll want to be prepared before you even pull on your boots. For tips and resources, check out this guide.
If for you, winter occurs for one reason only—skiing and snowboarding—the Valley has you covered. Two incredible ski resorts are both beautiful and lively, making for a fun-filled family winter vacation in the Valley.
Sasquatch Mountain Resort, located above the Harrison River Valley, gets an average of 1,000 cm of snow each season—offering some of the best powder in the region, without the crowds of larger resorts. Four chairlifts serve 36 runs with varied difficulties to satisfy all levels of “daredevil” in your family. Besides the great skiing and snowboarding, Sasquatch Mountain Resort offers snow tubing, snowshoeing, and cozy lodges with stunning mountain views.
Just 45 minutes east of Hope, Manning Park offers an immersive wilderness experience at a resort that manages to keep well-maintained facilities, while preserving the untouched beauty of its nature. Thirty-four runs over 356 acres serve the downhill skiers, while cross-country skiing enthusiasts will find their paradise gliding through 14 trails set against pristine, snow-kissed alpine forests. After a day on the slopes, trade in your skis for some blades and take a waltz around the skating rink under twinkling stars.
When you’re out in the beauty of the Fraser Valley, enjoying the winter vibes and snowy scenes, make sure you’re taking care to be aware of the current conditions and possible risks. To keep up to date with avalanche activity in the area, you can check Avalanche Canada’s interactive map for current information.
