It’s February; the days are short and the nights are long. For worshippers of the great outdoors like ourselves, these winter months can drag on and some weeks getting our fill of nature feels almost impossible. Luckily, Chilliwack is overflowing with trails and outdoor spaces, so when hiking up Mt.Cheam and trekking Mt.Thom aren’t in the cards, there’s still a ton of low-key outdoor options to get your fill of fresh air. Here are some of our favourite local spots to get into nature this Winter. See you out there friends!
VEDDER RIVER ROTARY TRAIL
16km roundtrip of scenic views prime for walking, biking, jogging, fishing or lounging. The great thing about the Rotary Trail is that there are numerous parking lots and entry points so you can choose to do as much or as little of the trail as you prefer!
BRIDLEWOOD TRAIL
A moderate 1.3km gravel trail that connects to the Salmon Ridge Trail and interconnecting roads to form one of the most popular trail networks in the Promontory area.
CHILLIWACK COMMUNITY FOREST
100 acres of trails through the forest shared by hikers and mountain bikers. There are a wide variety of trails here, so there will always be something that fits your needs.
PIXTEL AND THREE BEARS LOOP
A moderate 1.9km loop through the forest great for all skill levels.
GREAT BLUE HERON NATURE RESERVE
Within the Vedder River Rotary Trail, you’ll find a home to one of the largest heron nesting colonies in the Lower Mainland. The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve includes a trail system, observation tower, bird blinds, picnic tables and benches.
TEAPOT HILL
A 5km round trip with multiple viewpoints overlooking Cultus Lake and the Columbia Valley.
CHEAM LAKE WETLANDS
A 2.3km round trip through 93 hectares of land perfect for birdwatching.
HILLKEEP REGIONAL PARK
Situated on the top of Chilliwack Mountain with 2km of trails including a viewing platform overlooking the valley.
SEVEN SISTERS TRAIL
This 4km trail weaves through the forest as you take in several towering Douglas Firs.