Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve - Where To Walk in Chilliwack

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Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve - Where To Walk in Chilliwack

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The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve in Chilliwack is a not-so-hidden gem for bird watching, walking, a picnic or family photos, year round.

Located on the south end of of Sumas Prairie Road, the Nature Reserve has several kilometres of walking trails, bird blinds and a viewing tower. The south end of the trails even connect with Vedder River Rotary Trail which is an 8km trail that follows the north side of the Vedder River.

In addition, there is the Rotary Interpretive Centre which is run by volunteers throughout the year. The Interpretive Centre was built and donated to the city of Chilliwack through the Rotary Club of Chilliwack. It hosts a variety of learning tools, as well as a small gift shop for visitors to stop in and enjoy.

There are variety of programs that the Nature Reserve offers, including various homeschooling programs, school field trip classes, summer camps for kids, various painting classes and of course self guided tours throughout the kilometres of trails.

The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve is a not-so-hidden gem in Chilliwack, it’s a perfect place for every bird watcher and kid alike. Pack a picnic lunch, walk the trails, look for Heron, Bald Eagles, Owls, or sit on a bench and various water fowl. You’ll have a great day regardless of what you decide to do.

Learn more here: chilliwackblueheron.com

Follow them on Facebook: facebook.com/GBHNR

 

Cheam Lake Wetlands - What To Do in Chilliwack

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Cheam Lake Wetlands - What To Do in Chilliwack

Cheam Lake Wetlands has three walking trails that wander throughout the different sections of this preserved wetlands to showcase its natural beauty, while ensuring a safe habitat for its forest, marsh and lake dwellers.  Each trail is easily accessible and has minimal incline, making it a leisurely walk for the entire family. 

To the left of the parking lot, the Loop Trail, currently full of autumn colours and featured in our photos, takes you along the lake and through the marshy areas where well-maintained bridges keep your feet dry and provide you with a view across the marsh which is set against our beautiful mountains.  At a brisk pace, this walk took us about thirty minutes, which could amount to an hour for the little legs of curious children.

Two other trails are available near the portable washrooms and Cheam Lake Wetlands sign.  Taking the trail straight will lead you over floating bridges to a viewing platform of the lake, while forking to trail on the right will take you through the forest and along the creek, making it aptly named the Creek Trail.

Located east of Chilliwack, in the Popkum area (location showed in the map below), Cheam Lake Wetlands is quoted to be “popular for walking, picnicking and bird watching and is home to many insect, mammal and bird species” on the FVRD website, and is part of the British Columbia Wildlife Watch.  You can see the common and uncommon bird sightings and various wildlife by following this link to the BC Environments website.

Please note that as a restored habitat, no boats are allowed on the water of Cheam Lake Wetlands nor are any dogs permitted on site, on or off leash.

 

Creative Chilliwack 2018 by Chilliwack Creative Commission

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GET YOUR FREE TICKETS NOW!
November 1st at 7pm
Chilliwack Cultural Centre

Come and learn more about the untold stories of Chilliwack's creative economy. The fourth annual Creative Chilliwack is a free event and will feature local speakers each with a unique story to tell delivered in a very unique format.
PechaKucha 20x20 is a simple presentation format where you show 20 images, each for 20 seconds. The images advance automatically and you talk along to the images.
It will be fast-paced, insightful and inspirational and the members of the Chilliwack Creative Commission would like to invite you to attend. Please reserve your spot today as we expect to have a full house.

GET YOUR FREE TICKETS NOW!

Major League 2 - Friday Nights

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Major League 2 - Friday Nights

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Major League 2, located just off Vedder Road (map below), is well known for it’s Happy Hour specials everyday and it’s extensive list of craft beers on tap. But Friday night it turns into THE place to be in Chilliwack.

With an all new dance floor in place now and the music still pumping, a good night with you and some friends is bound to happen. Widely considered the best party in town; the drinks are cold, music loud and great times guaranteed.

Come on out every Friday night, ready for a great time.

For more info visit: www.majorleague2.com

Or check out there Facebook page: www.facebook.com/MajorLeague2/

Photos by: @unkied

 

Mt. Thom Park Hiking Trails - What To Do in Chilliwack

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Mt. Thom Park Hiking Trails - What To Do in Chilliwack

Mount Thom Park Chilliwack Hiking Trails

If you're looking for a quick hike with a view to take the family on, then head on up to Mt Thom Park, just east of Promontory, up in the quiet community of Ryder Lake (map below).  With numerous scenic trails to spend an afternoon exploring, we often pack a snack or lunch and take the 45-minute Lookout Loop Trail to overlook our beautiful city.

"The park is a 70 hectare wooded area, including the summit and slopes of the 484 metre Mount Thom which offers spectacular views of Promontory and Cultus Lake." - City of Chilliwack website.  The area is stunning with its trails cutting through the lush West Coast rainforest and leading you to the summit of Mt. Thom. 

There are multiple access points and trails, which offer varying lengths of hiking, depending on your choice. For those wanting a longer trail or even an excellent workout, try running up the trail that starts in Promontory; or, if you're looking for something a little shorter and easier, load up the kids, dog and grandparents and start from the parking lot in Ryder Lake. Looping trails slowly walk you through ravines and gullies as you breath in the fresh air, while horse, rider and hiker alike can meander through the Horse Loop Trail.  Bring the binoculars because if you're quiet enough, you may just catch a glimpse of the neighbouring wild life.  

For more information on the amenities, difficulty level, maps and trails connecting to Mt. Thom, visit the City of Chilliwack’s website here.

 

Fraser Valley Regional Library

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Fraser Valley Regional Library - Chilliwack Branch

Chilliwack Library

We are fortunate to have such an incredible resource in Chilliwack at three different locations. The Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) holds a wealth of books, magazines, music, DVDs and even graphic novels and puppets! With its tables, desks, computer and internet access and comfortable seating options, the downtown Chilliwack location is also a quiet place for students of all ages to work on their studies. 

Return your borrowed books easily (and hopefully on time to avoid that late fee!) with the conveniently placed drive-up drop-off slots.  We also love how the FVRL stays current by offering “grab bags”.  These bags contain five books based on a genre or age category (i.e. picture books, early readers, romance, mystery, etc.), making a two-minute visit to the library possible on those extra busy weeks.  Easy returns and easy borrowing…one of the many reasons we love our local library.

Another feature we love about the FVRL is their online catalogue and downloadable audio books.  Head to www.fvrl.bc.cawhere you can easily search for specific item or browse their categories.  Once you log in with your library card, you will be able to place a hold on any item and they will let you know when it's available for pick-up or download.  

Keep an eye on ongoing events available in all their locations throughout the Fraser Valley - fvrl.bibliocommons.com/events/search/index.  From toddler meet-ups to ukulele circles, there’s something for everyone.

Be sure to grab that book bag and library card this week and book a visit to your local library!  

Western Toad Migration at Ryder Lake, Chilliwack

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Western Toad Migration at Ryder Lake, Chilliwack

There is an amazing display of nature that happens at Ryder Lake at the start to each summer. 

Toads migrate from the forest area into the wetlands, but with a busy roadway in the middle of their path. The road has proven to detrimental to the toad population in it's obstacle. The Western Toad Migration that occurs in this area has been shared around the world.  Including a video that was done locally (see below) by our own Chilliwack biologist: Dr. Carin Bondar. 

Since the video was recorded, new measures have been put in place, including fencing to divert the toads towards a crossing that goes underneath the road.

It's quite something to see all of these 'baby' toads crossing the street to get to the other side. It's a great way to help see the little things going on around our neighbourhood and how taking a small detour in your day, can make a big deal.

Check out more about the conservancy effort here:
http://fraservalleyconservancy.ca/ryder-lake-amphibian-protection/ 

Party in the Park 2018 - Around Chilliwack

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Party in the Park 2018 - Around Chilliwack

Brought to you by the Downtown Chilliwack BIA and Trevor McDonald. 
It's going to be a great summer. Every Friday night in July, come on down to Community Park in Chilliwack to hear local talent, visit the pop up shops and local businesses, plus the food vendors, busking and street patios!

FOR MORE INFO: http://downtownchilliwack.com/party-in-the-park 

Flight Over Chilliwack

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We recently took a scenic tour flight with Principal Air based out of Abbotsford (they used to be set-up in Chilliwack, but still fly out here a lot) and we had a great time checking out Chilliwack, Harrison Hot Springs and the Harrison River.

It wasn't the nicest of days, but if we've learned anything about living in the Fraser Valley, if you always wait for a sunny day to do something, you'll always be waiting.

Flying over the valley this time of year is incredibly green and blue. Looking out over the coastal mountains, the sprawling farm lands and residential areas, you see just how beautiful our area of the world is. 

If you ever get the chance, go for a scenic tour of our area and see for yourself what a cool perspective it is. You won't regret it!

Popkum Community Trail - What To Do In Chilliwack

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A bit of a hidden gem, Popkum Community Trail located at 53335 Yale Road (map below) is just outside of Rosedale and quickly accessible from the highway.

Established in 2015, with help from provincial funding, Popkum Community Trail is maintained by the Fraser Valley Regional District and boasts a short hike through some marshland, up a well groomed and staired hill and stretches out at the end to a view of Cheam Wetlands. 

We contacted the FVRD to find out more about the trail and they were happy to provide us with further information below, plus for people with dogs; dogs are allowed but on-leash only.

This trail is great for all ages, with a well groomed boardwalk for walkers of any age and a small hill for climbers with younger knees, everyone in every generation can enjoy this trail. The boardwalk goes on for quite a while and has it's own great views, while the hill upwards leads to a small decline and viewing platform of the Cheam Wetlands. 

It's a great way to spend an hour and explore our beautiful corner of the world. Enjoy, Chilliwack!

 

Chilliwack Museum Mountaineers Exhibit 2018

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Chilliwack Museum Mountaineers Exhibit 2018

Mountaineers: Community Experience in Chilliwack’s Mountains focuses on 20th century accounts and uses of the local mountains by community groups in Chilliwack. An array of photographs, journals and physical ephemera will be on display.

Check out the Facebook Event here and reply:
https://www.facebook.com/events/167621643917908/

For more about the Chilliwack Museum & Archives:
http://www.chilliwackmuseum.ca

Hiscoe Jiu-Jitsu - What To Do in Chilliwack

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Hiscoe Jiu-Jitsu - What To Do in Chilliwack

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Hiscoe Jiu-Jitsu is a martial arts dojo in Chilliwack that is run by Steve Hiscoe.

Steve has a love for Jiu-Jitsu that stemmed from the moment he first joined a dojo back in Ottawa when he was a kid. Not only is Hiscoe Jiu-Jitsu a long standing dojo in Chilliwack, but it's also a generational passion of the Hiscoe family. 

With Steve running the dojo in Chilliwack, his father runs a dojo back in Steve's hometown of Ottawa and with Steve's sons taking part in regular classes, it's just a matter of time before the next generation takes over.

Hiscoe Jiu-Jitsu are self-protection experts specializing in teaching people of all ages how to defend themselves. 

They have classes for the following ages:
Ready Set Kiai (3-4 year olds) 
Raw HEET (5-6 year olds)
Pure HEET (7-9 year olds)
Extreme HEET (10-13 year olds)

Teen and Adult Jiu-Jitsu
As well as low impact classes. 

Steve Hiscoe was on an episode of our podcast during season 2. You can listen to that here.

You can find them online at:
www.facebook.com/hiscoejiujitsu/

AND

www.hiscoejiujitsu.com

Gwynne Vaughan Park

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Gwynne Vaughan Park

Located in the quaint neighbourhood of Fairfield Island, is a gorgeous park with strolling trails through 6.8 acres of gardens and lawns, a field, an 1896 heritage house and 30 community gardens. 

Find out more about the community garden plots here.

It's a great place to grab a picnic lunch, sit in the shade, let your kids run free or read a good book. There's even a few geocaches hidden in the area... if you're into GeoCaching. 

Every year, Gwynne Vaughan Park hosts a plant sale with all kind of plants, art and outdoor crafts. This year it's happening on June 2, 2018 from 9am - 3pm. It's a great way to connect with the community, buy local products and get a great start on your summer garden.

The Park is managed by the Gwynne Vaughan Park Society and is owned by the City of Chilliwack.

You can find out more about the park here and there's a map below to help you find it. 

 

Erik J. Matthews: Singer/Songwriter

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ERIK J Matthews Chilliwack Singer Songwriter

Erik J. Matthews: Singer/Songwriter

Performer, guitar/bass instructor, session work, song writing. 

www.erikjmatthews.com

Erik J. Matthews performs around the Fraser Valley for public and private events. Perhaps you caught a show at Party in the Park or Canada Day festivities, stopped by a local restaurant and enjoyed his guitar and duets over a meal, or even saw him perform in a local pumpkin patch. He seeks out new opportunities to share his song writing with those who enjoy hearing a lyric and listening to a melody. 

He can be found frequently hosting open jams around Chilliwack. Come to the Triple Play Pub every other Thursday, where each show is unique. The backing band, “The Endless Wire,” is always a new combination of seasoned players, giving jammers of different genres a chance to showcase their talents and giving the audience a wider range of styles to enjoy. (Check erikjmatthewsmusician on Facebook for upcoming public performances.)

Erik J Matthews Chilliwack Singer Songwriter

Erik J Matthews Chilliwack Singer Songwriter

Chilliwack Independent Film Festival - 2018

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The Chilliwack Independent Film Festival (CIFF) is coming back after a successful inaugural festival in 2017.

Check them out online: https://ciff.ca

And on Facebook here.

They are still accepting films through their submission process and are really hoping to have a bigger panel of locally made film content and First Nations content. 

The founder behind CIFF is Taras, a bright younger happy addition to the community of Chilliwack. He'll even be submitting his own film in the upcoming festival and we look forward to seeing what he puts together. 

Be on the lookout for more news about CIFF 2018 but make sure you block November 23-25 on your calendars. 

From the website: 
"The Chilliwack Independent Film Festival is a two day event with screenings and Q & As designed to provide opportunities for both local and international filmmakers to showcase their work and build contacts for future collaborations.

With events and mixers as well as over ten awards across different categories, we hope to to build ties between emerging and established professionals. We want to provide an arena for filmmakers to screen their films in public and experience some incredible cinema from across the world.

We accept Features, Shorts, Documentaries, Music Videos and Animation from emerging artists and students to establish professionals. The Chilliwack Independent Film Festival (CIFF) is committed to the celebration of independent film and bringing it to wider audiences.

We encourage films from across Canada and the globe to enter and attend. We also have special focus on local BC filmmakers with specific categories. If you have a powerful story with a distinct voice, we want to watch it.

The Chilliwack Independent Film Festival runs every year in November at the Cottonwood Cinema in Chilliwack."

Walden Park Disc Golf Course

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A great way to spend a summer evening is heading out to the disc golf course off First Ave in east Chilliwack, in Walden Park.  

City Website

A challenging 9 hole course, located in a gorgeous, tucked away corner of town. Play solo, or challenge some friends to 9 holes of competition. The course has various obstacles including trees, ponds and tall grass. 

In the late spring, be sure to bring some mosquito repellant!

Buy Frisbee Golf Discs just down the road at Cheam Source for Sports:

Cheap Source for Spots WEBSITE

and their Facebook Page

 

 

Bent Rods Guiding & Fishing Experience

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If you've never had the opportunity to go fishing on the Fraser River, you are missing out on a lifetime experience. Chilliwack has plenty of fishing guides, but few have the same family based business and hospitality that Rod and Danena Toth offer.

Visit Bent Rods Here
https://www.bentrods.ca

Aside from Sturgeon fishing, Rod guides throughout the salmon and steelhead seasons, plus offers a wide variety of fishing rods and tackle. Best known for his custom tied jigs; just ask Rod about his twitching jigs when it comes time for Pink of Coho Salmon season.

Below you can see a brief example of spring fishing for Sturgeon:

Book a Trip - http://www.bentrods.ca/sturgeon-trips/ Another great sturgeon trip by Rod Toth of Bent Rods Guiding & Fishing Co. Book a trip and get out on the water now!