March 15, 2024

Exploring Chilliwack: Spring Break Activity Ideas

March 15, 2024/ Jenna Gardner

As spring approaches and the days become warmer and longer, it's the perfect time to plan some outdoor adventures for Spring Break. For those residing in or around Chilliwack, British Columbia, there's no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy. Whether you're seeking serene nature trails, a day on the green, family-friendly parks, or delicious treats, Chilliwack has something for everyone. Here are some Spring Break activity ideas to make the most of your time in this month:

1. Peach Creek Trails

One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of Chilliwack's natural landscape is by exploring the Peach Creek Rotary Trail. This scenic trail offers a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery, with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful stroll, Peach Creek Trail is sure to delight nature enthusiasts of all ages.

2. Vedder Park and Amble Coffee Truck

Vedder Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a wide range of amenities for a fun-filled day out. While the kids enjoy the playground, adults can grab a cup of artisanal coffee from the Amble Coffee Truck and relax amidst the park's tranquil surroundings. Afterward, take a leisurely bike ride or walk along the nearby trail for some added adventure.

3. Hillkeep Trail

For those seeking a short hiking experience on the North end of town, Hillkeep Trail is a must-visit destination. Nestled within the scenic Hillkeep Regional Park, this trail offers views of the Fraser Valley and Cascade Mountains. With its diverse terrain and lush forests, Hillkeep Trail provides an beautiful outdoor escape for nature lovers and families looking to get out of the house on Spring Break.

4. Little Mountain Trail

For a leisurely afternoon activity, consider exploring the newly established Little Mountain Trail. This scenic trail starts at the base of Little Mountain on Yale Road and leads to a charming lookout point. After working up an appetite, treat yourself to some delicious ice cream at Kent's Ice Cream or browse the selection of plants at Little Mountain Greenhouse for a delightful post-hike reward.

5. Community Forest Trails

Explore the vast network of trails within Chilliwack's Community Forest, maintained by the Chilliwack Park Society. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, these well-marked trails offer something for every skill level. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you discover hidden gems and breathtaking vistas along the way.

6. Tap Ins at Cultus Lake

For a couple of hours of family entertainment, head to Tap Ins at Cultus Lake. This exciting outdoor attraction features a putting course on 4 acres of manicured grounds. As Tap Ins reopens on March 15th, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition and soak up the sunshine. Once you finish up on the course, enjoy a delicious lunch at Legends Bistro, or practice your swing over at the Toptracer Driving Range.

7. Kelli Paddon Pancake Breakfast

Join the community for Kelli Paddon's Free Pancake Breakfast, on March 16th from 9-11am at the Carman United Church. Meet new friends and get to know your MLA for Chilliwack-Kent!

8. Cheam Golf

Practice your swing at Cheam Golf's driving range and new putting area. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Cheam Golf offers a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels to improve their game and enjoy some quality time outdoors.

With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, a staycation in Chilliwack may just be what Spring Break is calling for this year. Whether you're exploring scenic trails, heading out on the green, enjoying family-friendly attractions, or indulging in delicious treats, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of your time in this charming region. So unpack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Chilliwack this Spring Break!

February 22, 2024

Kid-Friendly Hikes In Chilliwack

February 22, 2024/ Jenna Gardner

Exploring Kid-Friendly Hikes in Chilliwack: Perfect Adventures for Little Explorers

Chilliwack, nestled in the heart of British Columbia, offers a plethora of outdoor adventures for families to enjoy together. From towering trees to hidden teapots, there's something for everyone, no matter the age or skill level. If you're on the lookout for kid-friendly hikes, Chilliwack has you covered. Let's take a closer look at some of the top picks for your next family outing:

Mt. Thom

For a small child-friendly adaptation to this popular hike, start from the trailhead on Churchill Parkway in Ryder Lake.

1. Seven Sisters

Trekking through Cultus Lake Provincial Park, the Seven Sisters trail promises a delightful journey for both young and old. A mere 60-minute out-and-back hike, it leads you to the remnants of seven majestic Douglas fir trees (though only three stand tall today). Start your adventure by parking at the Entrance Bay/Jade Bay Parking Lot and crossing the road to the Delta Grove Campground, where the trail begins. With its "Easy" rating, this hike is ideal for introducing your little ones to the wonders of nature.

2. Giant Douglas Fir Trail

For a shorter stroll that packs a punch, check out the Giant Douglas Fir Trail, located just south of Clear Creek Campground in Cultus Lake Provincial Park. This brief out-and-back hike, lasting around 30 minutes, culminates in a stunning photo opportunity: a single, awe-inspiring Douglas fir tree. It's the perfect spot to capture memories with your family against the backdrop of nature's grandeur.

3. Teapot Hill

Embark on a whimsical journey along the Teapot Hill trail, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Starting at the parking lot along Columbia Valley Highway, this 5km trail offers a slightly more challenging terrain, with a 250m elevation gain. Despite the added difficulty, the promise of breathtaking views of Cultus Lake and the thrill of discovering hidden teapots peppered along the trail make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

4. Broken Tree Loop Via Pitxel & Cholqthet (Community Forest)

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Chilliwack Community Forest with the Broken Tree Loop trail. This scenic route, boasting a 156m elevation gain over 3.1km, offers the flexibility to tailor your hike to suit your family's preferences. With various loops and hikes to explore, you can customize your experience and soak in the serenity of the forest at your own pace.

5. Hillkeep Regional Park

When rainy days threaten to dampen your spirits, seek solace in the embrace of nature at Hillkeep Regional Park. Offering two distinct trails—a viewpoint trail and a meadow trail—this 2km hike on the north side of Chilliwack provides a quick dose of nature's wonders. Rated as "Easy" on most trail apps, it's the perfect escape for families seeking a brief respite from the indoors.

6. Mt. Thom

For those craving a more rigorous adventure, Mt. Thom Trail delivers on all fronts. Starting from either Sylvan Drive or Churchill Parkway, this trail offers two routes to the viewpoint—a challenging 10km round trip or a shorter, 1.8km loop. Whichever path you choose, you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the valley below, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.

7. Bridlewood Trail

Promontory's Bridlewood Trail is another “build your own adventure” option. This trail network can be accessed from a number of trailheads in Promontory, or from the parking lot located just one minute up Chilliwack Lake Road. It consists of winding gravel paths connecting areas such as Crimson Ridge, Weeden Park, and Bridlewood Natural Area. If you are beginning your hike from Chilliwack Lake Road, be prepared for a number of stairs to start you off.

From North to South, East to West, Chilliwack beckons with an array of short and sweet hikes that promise adventure and discovery for the entire family. What's your favourite family-friendly hike? Share your recommendations in the comments below and let's inspire each other to explore the great outdoors!

March 31, 2023

Favourite Rainy Day Hikes in Chilliwack

March 31, 2023/ Jenna Gardner

Itching to get outside, but the weather won’t cooperate?

Springtime can feel long, dark, and wet here in Chilliwack.

Thankfully, we have compiled a short list of trails that you can complete on even the rainiest day - thanks to dense tree canopies (and a little rain gear). Read on for a list of our favourite rainy day hikes in Chilliwack.

Seven Sisters

A great little hike up in Cultus Lake Provincial Park, Seven Sisters is a 60 minute out and back hike that takes you to where 7 giant douglas fir trees once stood (3 remain standing today). We suggest parking in the Entrance Bay/Jade Bay Parking Lot and crossing the road to the Delta Grove Campground where the trail begins. This is a great hike for kids, and is rated as “Easy”.

Giant Douglas Fir

Located just south of Clear Creek Campground in Cultus Lake Provincial Park, The Giant Douglas Fir Trail is a great route for kids or those who want a short, easy walk in the woods. It is an out-and-back hike, taking around 30 minutes to complete. The route takes you to a single massive douglas fir tree which makes for a great photo op!

Teapot Hill

Our third, and definitely most popular Cultus hike is Teapot Hill. This trail begins in the parking lot along Columbia Valley Highway, just beyond Delta Grove Campground. It is a slightly more challenging trail than the two mentioned above, taking approximately 1 hour and 45 mins to complete the 5km route, with a 250m elevation gain. The top of the trail boasts a beautiful view of Cultus Lake, while the search for hidden teapots entertains kids and adults alike.

Broken Tree Loop Via Pitxel & Cholqthet (Community Forest)

The Broken Tree Loop is a great walking trail, nestled under the canopy of the Chilliwack Community Forest. It features a 156m elevation gain over 3.1km, taking approximately 1 hour and 5 mins to complete. The Chilliwack Community Forest is a unique trail system that has many different loops/hikes, so you can customize your experience and make your hike longer or shorter.

Hillkeep Regional Park

Although not as densely covered, Hillkeep Regional Park is a great short hike on the North side of Chilliwack for those rainy days that you want a quick burst of nature. It features two options: a viewpoint trail and a meadow trail, which in total equate to a 2km hike rated as “Easy” on most trail apps.

Mt. Thom

Mt. Thom Trail joins the suburban community of Promontory, with the rural community above in Ryder Lake. If you are looking for a good burn, park on Sylvan Drive and make your way up the wooden staircase which leads to a series of switchbacks up the mountain. This route is a round trip of about 10km, taking 2.5 hours to complete, and offers a beautiful view of the valley from the viewpoint up top. If you want to reap the rewards without breaking too much of a sweat there is a shorter route to the viewpoint. The trailhead on Churchill Parkway in Ryder Lake provides access to the lookout loop, a 1.8km trail that takes around 40 mins to complete.