Alas, Spring is upon us! With everything that’s going on right now, we think everyone could use something to look forward to - and in our opinion, Spring hiking is just the thing. Thank you Mother Nature for basking us in sunshine just when we needed it the most! Is it just us or can you almost feel yourself defrosting as you step out into that crisp Spring sun? And we may be a little biased but DAMN, the Fraser Valley looks real good when a little sun shines down on it. I mean what better place to spend Spring than the most beautiful place in BC!? With towering mountains, thundering rivers, and vast fields the Fraser Valley truly is #yourstoexplore. So let’s dust off our hikin’ boots, shake out our plaids, pick up some 6-packs and get to explorin’!
Abby Grind
Abbotsford’s own version of the Grouse Grind! This 2 km climb up 304 meters of elevation takes you to a beautiful lookout over Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley. This is a great one when you’re looking for a quick way to get your heart pounding and some fresh air into your lungs.
Teapot Hill
This 2.5 km trek uphill offers beautiful views of Cultus Lake. The trail is littered with teapots, making it a fun spot to explore with little ones!
Bridal Veil Falls
Located just off the Trans Canada Highway in Chilliwack, Bridal Veil Falls is a well known spot in these parts, which also means it’s usually pretty packed in the sunnier months. This quick hike (.8 km round trip) to the falls makes for the perfect family trip, or stop off on your way out of town. Bring a picnic and enjoy it in the beautiful day use area!
Flood Falls
Head to Hope to hike a short but sweet .5 km to take in the Flood Falls, a beautiful but narrow waterfall that crashes into a small pool of water.
Othello Tunnels
Located in Hope, the Othello Tunnels are a flat 3.5 km round trip trail through a series of old train tunnels and bridges that cut through the solid granite walls and pass over the wild Coquihalla River.
Lindeman Lake
Looking for a peaceful break from the busyness of Cultus Lake during the sunny months? Meet Lindeman Lake! A 3.4 km round trip to a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by forest and mountain peaks. Despite the lake being freezing cold year-round some brave it and go for a dip. A beautiful place to spend a few hours lazing around with a beer in hand.
Okay, now that we’ve covered a few spots to head to for a quick 1 or 2 hour trek, we’re onto the big stuff. The half day or whole day hikes that require a pack, a litre or two of water and most definitely a beer to celebrate conquering the mountain at the top.
Harrison Grind
Harrison’s own Grouse Grind, a difficult and steep (7 km roundtrip) grind up the side of a mountain along the Campbell Lake Trail that offers views of Harrison Lake. This trail is fairly rugged and includes some grown over sections and blowdown that’s challenging to climb over.
Elk Mountain
Another difficult 7 km roundtrip hike up Elk Mountain in Chilliwack known for it’s beautiful wild flowers and various viewpoints overlooking the Fraser Valley. Though steep at points this hike isn’t overly-demanding making it a local favourite.
Vedder Ridge Trail
A 9 km round trip along the west side of Cultus Lake to the top of Vedder Mountain that boasts beautiful views on a clear day. Though it’s long, it’s actually on the easier side of intermediate, with gradual uphill and downhill sections until a short steep section at the end.
Mount Thom
Though Mount Thom is a beast of a hike (10 km roundtrip), it has two different trail options to get to the peak. One option is to park closer to the top to do the short Lookout Loop which is great for a family friendly option. The other is to start at the base and do the full 375 meter elevation gain. This trail is marked as intermediate, and though it’s long and has a fair amount of elevation, the trail includes many switchbacks and there is a decent amount of up and downs.
Mount Cheam
Mount Cheam’s peak has one of the most beautiful views of the Fraser Valley: a 360 degree panoramic view of Chilliwack and the communities along the Fraser river, jones lake, the surrounding peaks and mount baker to the south. Of course, this doesn’t come without a little sweat and tears. To get to the top you have to climb 700 meters of elevation (9.5 km roundtrip). Worth it? Yes, always, yes.
Remember to tag us (@oldyalebrewing or #oldyalebrewing) in your celebratory beer drinkin’ photos at the peak! Because if you didn’t take a picture at the top… did you really even hike? See ya out there friends!