Spring is just around the corner! For us, that means dusting off our ol' hiking boots and blazing some awesome trails in the wonderful Fraser Valley! And YOU KNOW you’ll find us with a much deserved beer in hand at the end of any adventure! Beer just taste better outside…it just does.
So get ready friends, because 2022 is the year to explore & we’ve put together a list of some our favourite (just to name a few) local hikes to get you outdoors!
STEELHEAD FALLS TRAIL - MISSION
This one is perfect if you’re looking for something short and sweet that will satisfy your nature needs. AND it doesn’t involve trekking up a giant mountain (that’s for another day). At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful waterfall… Who doesn’t love a good waterfall?! Go for a refreshing dip, crack a cold one and enjoy how peaceful the sound of flowing water is!
You can find this easy-peasy path in the Mission area, which connects to the Reservoir Trail that loops around Hayward Lake. So there’s an option of planning to make your day EXTRA long by doing the 17km loop around the lake!
The trail is temporarily closed, but is a must visit for when it opens back up!
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 75 m
Round Trip: 2 km
Season: Year’ round
CHADSEY LAKE - ABBOTSFORD
Put on your ankle high hikin’ boots and prepare to get muddy… but also prepare to be stunned by the gorgeous wild flowers along the way! Not to mention you’ll be ending this BEAUTY of a hike with a swim in the lake! Chadsey Lake is located on Sumas Mountain, in Abbotsford. It’s recommended that adventurers download the offline map since the trail isn’t always obvious. This one is considered more of a rugged experience as you’ll pass through steep, narrow & muddy ravines that can sometimes be slightly overgrown.
There are a few areas during the trail where you can admire views of the Fraser River looking towards Mission. Once you make it to the lake, the view is totally worth that mountainous grind that it took to get there. BUT let’s be real…the best way to enjoy a lake view is with a celebratory nature beer, am I right?
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 682 m
Round Trip: 10.6 km
Season: April - November (recommended)
WHIPPOORWILL POINT TRAIL - HARRISON
We’re comin’ at ya with another chill & easy trail to blaze that will be sure to have you coming back time and time again! Although this one is rated as easy, we must warn you that there are some very narrow & steep sections in the beginning with rocky & rooted terrain… But don’t worry, it eventually smooths out!
Wander through the old growth forest, soak in the stunning views of Harrison Lake, and take some time to enjoy the lovely Sandy Cove Beach! And when we say SANDY, oh do we mean it! Now celebrate by sticking a beer in your hand and this hike really does have it all…
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 158 m
Round Trip: 4 km
Season: Year’ round
HOPE LOOKOUT TRAIL
This one’s for those kinda days where you really want a good workout! Prepare to get your SWEAT on. With scenic landscapes waiting for you at the top and a nice steady incline the whole way up, this is just the challenge you’ll need! The lush green mountains and city views from above are totally worth the grind and will leave you mesmerized… And craving a mountain top brew of course!
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 466 m
Round Trip: 4.5 km
Season: March - November
VEDDER MOUNTAIN RIDGE TRAIL - CHILLIWACK
The Vedder Mountain Ridge Trail is a great hike with gradual up & down sections and is located along the west side of Cultus Lake! If you love being immersed within the trees, look no further! The trail takes you through mostly forested areas while still offering beautiful views along the way. When you reach your destination, you’ll be greeted with an incredible view of the Fraser Valley towards Sumas Mountain. AND as always… go ahead and TREAT YO SELF to a refreshing craft beer!
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 260 m
Round Trip: 9km
Season: May- October
There you have it folks! Be sure to add these ones to your list for 2022 & have some awesome OYB beer handy to celebrate when you’ve blazed these trails!!
If you go on any Fraser Valley adventures or have some spots that you think are a must visit, share with us @oldyalebrewing or with the hashtag #oldyalebrewing
Happy adventuring friends!