3 Spots in Chilliwack that are Even Better in the Off-Season
/
Chilliwack has so much to offer, even once the tourists have all gone home. Check out 3 of our favourite spots to enjoy the shoulder season.
Read More
Murph's Gym Chilliwack
/
Murph's Gym Chilliwack
It’s true that there is no shortage of gyms around town. Whatever style or type of fitness you’re looking to get into, you’ll find a wide array of possibilities in Chilliwack.
Murph’s Gym on Young Road (#403 - 8705 Young Road) is well known not only for it’s positive trainers and uplifting experience every time you enter there, but it’s known for it’s tight knit members and their encouragement and positivity towards one another.
Whatever your fitness goals are, at Murph’s Gym they want you to know that they have your back and believe in you to chase after and complete those goals. From losing weight, training for a race, building muscle or prepping for a competition; at Murph’s they have all of the equipment and know how to get you in the right place.
One of the bonuses of Murph’s Gym is the limited memberships that they allow. To help keep the gym operating at a level that is both profitable for the owners and approachable for the members, they create a balance to make the gym a special and unique place to visit.
“At Murphs Gym we provide a space and training for people to push past their barriers and live a lifestyle of strength, relationships, and happiness.”
Check out more about Murph’s Gym here:
http://murphsgym.com
I remember... - New Chilliwack Museum Exhibit
/I remember... - New Chilliwack Museum Exhibit
A new exhibition, I remember..., is now open at the Chilliwack Museum.
An ongoing, participatory, collaborative installation (curated by museum visitors!) aiming to foster personal recollections of life and community. Captured in glass mason jars and assembled from found objects, guests young and old are invited to craft their own connection to personal memory, while exploring the dynamic range of the collective memory within the community.
The Exhibition opened on May 21, 2021 and will run through to October 16, 2021. The goal of this exhibition is to have visitors share their own memories and build a collaborative exhibition. The aim is to show that while memories are unique, there are many commonalities in our lived experience as well.
“This exhibition is meant to be participatory”, says Sarah Belley, Education & Engagement Coordinator, “we want members of the community to share their connection to the concept of memory by crafting their own memory jars”.
The Museum is open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 4:30pm, on Thursdays until 8:00pm, and Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm. More information on admissions can be found at www.chilliwackmuseum.ca. Admission is by donation until June 24, 2021.
Cheam Mountain Golf Course and The Wack Kitchen
/
Cheam Mountain Golf Course and The Wack Kitchen
Are you looking for something to do for a date night or a place to take the kids? Why not try heading over to Cheam Mountain Golf Course where you can hop in a golf cart and cruise around the gorgeous golf course and play a round; Or hit a bucket of balls in the driving range then head to the back of the golf shop and enjoy an incredible meal and drinks on the patio that overlooks the 18th green and beautiful Chilliwack landscape.
Cheam Golf Course is making golf more fun for all ages. With their ever popular Men’s Night (Tuesdays) and Ladies Night (Wednesdays) you might want to find a weekend evening to hit the course and patio. The golf is quick, fun and gorgeous this time of year and the patio is just waiting for you to relax and unwind after a busy day.
Our Recommendation:
Representing four different kitchens at The Wack (Street Dogs, Burger Bros. Plant Butcher and Steve'-O’s Chicken) we highly recommend trying the Smash Burgers from Burger Bros. or the Nashville Style Chicken sandwich and get some Dirty Fries from Street Dogs on the side. Call it your treat day!
Book a tee time or get more info about golfing at Cheam Mountain Golf Course here:
https://www.cheammountaingolf.ca
Check out the menu at The Wack Takeout and Delivery Kitchen here:
https://thewackkitchen.com
Both the Golf Course and The Wack are located at:
44610 Luckakuck Way (map below)
Love This Land - Paintings by Gary Haggquist - Chilliwack Cultural Centre
/Love This Land - Paintings by Gary Haggquist - Chilliwack Cultural Centre
The O’Connor Group Art Gallery located in the Chilliwack Cultural Centre is now open to the public (with strict social distancing protocols in place).
The Chilliwack Arts & Cultural Centre Society is thrilled to bring the next stunning exhibit showcasing the popular Cultus Lake artist Gary Haggquist with his “Love This Land” exhibit on display from August 24 to October 4, 2020.
Haggquist has been painting for the past 40 years and his love of nature and this land is very apparent in his paintings as he captures the natural beauty of this amazing corner of the world. From the fine detail of moss to the shimmer of water, his attention to detail and heightened realism creates images that appear firmly grounded in physical reality, while at the same time, somehow go beyond the surface appearance tugging the viewer into the realm of memory and dream.
Living at Cultus Lake for the past 34 years, the inspirational surroundings shine through marvellously in this fantastic new exhibit. Don’t miss the chance to come bask in beautiful British Columbia - captured on canvas!
There is no charge for admission. Gallery hours are from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday to Friday (closed on Holidays). Don’t miss this chance to see Gary’s work up close!
The re-opening of the O-Connor Group Art Gallery will limit patrons to five at a time to ensure proper social distancing. Face masks covering both nose and mouth must be worn at all times by anyone entering the Chilliwack Cultural Centre, and enhanced operating protocol must be followed.
Art Classes resume at The Centre
/Art Classes resume at The Centre
Creativity continues at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre.
On May 25 The Centre received authorization to begin Phase two re-opening of the Cultural Centre.
On June 24 the Province of British Columbia announced the province would move into Phase three of the BC Restart Plan.
Under Phase three, the Chilliwack Arts & Cultural Centre Society will move to a re-opening of the HUB International Theatre for select performances under strictly enhanced protocols. Please click on this link for the complete Re-opening Plan.
In the meantime, some art classes will be offered for adults in the evenings. These classes will be held in the Rotary Hall Studio Theatre with strict Social Distancing protocols in place to ensure the safety of everyone. The Centre’s front doors will open 10 minutes before the classes scheduled start time. Participants will be required to wear face coverings at all times (we will lend you a non-medical cloth mask if you do not have your own).
As we move forward, we will continue to add more classes when possible, so please check our website for the most current ones available. www.chilliwackculturalcentre/classes.ca
Below are the classes we have available right now. Each class will have a 15 student per class maximum with Social Distancing protocols in place and be held in the Rotary Hall Studio Theatre.
· Creating with Cross Stitch: August 5 to 19, Wednesdays (3 Sessions) 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
· World of Colour: August 6 to 27, Thursdays (4 Sessions) 6:30 to 8:30 pm.
· World of Colour: August 19, Wednesday (Workshop) 5:30 to 8:30 pm.
· Watercolour Beginnings: September 2 to 23, Wednesdays (4 sessions) 6:30 to 8:30 pm.
· Introduction to Acrylics: September 10 – October 1, Thursdays (4 sessions) 6:30 to 8:30 pm.
· Beginning Photography: September 8 - 29, Tuesdays (4 Sessions) 6:15 to 8:15 pm.
· Create a Junk Journal: September 14, Monday (workshop) 5:30 to 8:30 pm
· Painting with Pat: September 21, Monday (Workshop) 6:30 to 8:30 pm.
Also open now is our Clay Open Studio which in the current situation will no longer be available on a drop-in basis. Participants will be limited to six at a time (including the volunteer), and they will have to register in advance with the Centre Box Office to ensure that the number of attendees is limited to those that can affect strict social distancing. Open Studio hours are 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Below are the new rules allowing access to the building and following the public health orders:
· Participants will be required to wear face coverings at all times (we will lend you a non-medical cloth mask if you do not have your own).
· All participants will be required to observe strict social distancing protocols ensuring that people stay a minimum of two meters (six feet) apart. Areas have been marked off in Rotary Hall to guide you.
· Tools may not be shared by participants.
· Participants will be limited to 15 at a time (plus the instructor and a staff member).
We know things are challenging right now, and we will continue to follow health guidelines while doing our best to provide art to the community in a safe and inspiring way.
We look forward to welcoming you back!
The Centre Box Office:
The Centre Box Office and the building is now open with reduced hours. The new hours are Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 3:00 pm. Call 604-391-SHOW(7469) if you have any questions or to register for any of the classes.
Click here for The Centre’s COVID-19 Statement
Chris Woods – Sandstorm Series - Chilliwack Cultural Centre
/Chris Woods – Sandstorm Series - Chilliwack Cultural Centre
The O’Connor Group Art Gallery in the Chilliwack Cultural Centre is re-opening to the public on July 8 (with strict social distancing protocols in place) with a stunning exhibit by Chilliwack-based artist Chris Woods and his famed series “Sandstorm”!
Woods hyper-realistic work takes a look at the original Star Wars trilogy through the eyes of the antagonist Darth Vader. The huge paintings in this series are based on screen captures from the original Star Wars trilogy, the genre-defining sci-fi action films that are arguably the most influential Hollywood creations of the late 20th century. Woods goes beyond the 'good-guy, bad-guy' Hollywood dichotomy by turning the narrative of the Star Wars trilogy inside out and explores the idea that Vader's history of personal trauma, isolation and abuse stands at the root of an adult who never truly had the chance to choose good over evil. Come view these masterpieces and enjoy the Sandstorm series as Woods examines Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia and Han Solo from Darth Vader's twisted perspective in an impressive exhibit not to be missed.
Sandstorm will be on display in the O’Connor Group Art Gallery from Wednesday, July 8 to Friday, August 17, 2020. No charge for admission. Gallery hours are from 10 am to 2:00 pm, Monday to Friday (closed on Holidays).
The re-opening of the O-Connor Group Art Gallery will limit patrons to five at a time to ensure proper social distancing. Face masks covering both nose and mouth must be worn at all times by anyone entering the Chilliwack Cultural Centre, and enhanced operating protocol must be followed.
Golf Lessons - Cheam Mountain Golf Course
/
Golf Lessons - Cheam Mountain Golf Course
Cheam Mountain Golf Course has turned itself into an incredible little gem of a golf course. This par 3 may look small from the outset, but with their tight and fast moving greens, you’ll find out that it’s the perfect course for beginner or advanced golfers alike.
“One of the major benefits to Cheam Mountain Golf is their on-site golf lessons.”
From Junior Camps and Junior Nights to Adult Private and Group Lessons everyone can improve their golf game at the Cheam Mountain Golf Course. This year, Cheam Mountain brought in a second instructor to teach alongside Coach Kevin Stinson. Kevin himself is an experienced professional, humble and an incredibly talented tournament golfer while new coach, Cody Stewart brings a new dynamic with his background in kinesiology and golf fitness.
The pair of instructors at Cheam will not only help you improve your game, but will also share the excitement and passion for the game. Their classes are affordable and flexible, plus if you book with a bunch of your friends, you’ll probably have even more fun.
Book Your Lessons Here:
Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni Tour - CSCL Hockey Game
/
Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni Tour - CSCL Hockey Game
The CSCL Hockey Alumni Series continues…
The Chilliwack Society for Community Living (CSCL) is thrilled to welcome the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni Tour to a game at the Chilliwack Coliseum on Saturday, February 22, 2020! Puck drops at 7pm. The TMLA will play a group of local hockey players, the Chilly Wackers, in a game consisting of three 15 minute periods. All proceeds go to CSCL to help support adults with developmental disabilities and children and youth with special needs.
TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!
Regular Ticket (13 and up) – $17
Youth Ticket (3-12 years of age) – $10
Children Under 3 – Free
VIP Ticket – $75
Click the link below to get your tickets today or call 604-792-7726 for assistance!
https://chilliwackchiefs.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=38
VIP TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!
The VIP experience includes: An initial meet and greet with the Leafs players, and a draw for an autographed Toronto Maple Leafs jersey signed by all the alumni players. Plus free appies! There will also be a cash bar for soft drinks and beer.
If you are bringing items to be autographed, please keep this limited to 2 items per ticket holder.
To make your experience even more memorable we have designed a special commemorative souvenir package just for you!
Click the link below to get your tickets today or call 604-792-7726 for assistance!
https://chilliwackchiefs.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=38
GAME DAY ENTERTAINMENT:
Sardis Drumline
Will perform outside for about 30 – 45 minutes prior to the game
Will perform on ice at 1st intermission
Calvin Rempel & the Roadside Attractions
Will be playing inside prior to the game and during intermission breaks
LEAFS ALUMNI ROSTER:
The finalized team for the official Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni team for their 2020 Inclusion BC Tour is:
Trevor Kidd (G)
Dan Daoust
Al Iafrate
Rick Vaive
Mike Krushelnyski
Garry Valk
Gary Leeman
Brad May
Tom Fergus
Garth Butcher
Nik Antropov
Jason Podollan
Joining the Leafs Alumni are winners from our Leaf-for-a-Day Silent Auction:
Tom DeGroot
Jason Kasper
AUTOGRAPHED DARRYL SITTLER JERSEY:
An autographed Darryl Sittler jersey will be auctioned off at the game – look for it on the concourse at the main gate. Many thanks to Willie Babcock of Babcock Construction for donating such a generous gift!
We will also be auctioning off a custom made Toronto Maple Leafs beer fridge!
Visiting Santa at Cottonwood Mall
/
It all starts November 23rd at Noon!
Visiting Santa at Cottonwood Mall
The Christmas season is upon us and it’s time to think about your trip to visit Santa at the mall.
Cottonwood Mall has set-up a North Pole for you and your little loved ones to come visit Santa!
Santa hours are:
Monday- 10am-5pm
Tuesday- 10am-5pm
Wednesday- 10am-5pm
Thursday- 10am-8pm
Friday- 10am-8pm
Saturday-10am-5pm
Sunday- 12pm-4pm
He is here “officially” this Saturday (Nov 23) at noon.
The first 100 children to visit with him will get a treat from Purdy’s.
There will also be having 2 Sensitive Santa events for Children with sensory processing disabilities.
Dec 9th - 8am - 9am
Dec 15th - 9am - 11am
Enjoy your time this Christmas. We hope you and your loved ones love your visit with Santa as much as we did.
Club XO Fitness
/
Club XO Fitness
Health is important to many of us, and finding the right place to get fit can be a challenge.
Having recently discovered Club XO Fitness, we’ve realized not only how much work it is to get back in shape, but just how fun it can be, in the right place. Whether taking their athletic training class, a boxing class or a spin class, you’ll find you leave hurting in places you didn’t know exist but that you keep on coming back for the positive atmosphere and support you receive.
Club XO isn’t just another gym; from our regular experiences at their spin classes, we can say firsthand how empowering and uplifting they are. Meeting you where you are, Club XO gives you the encouragement and motivation you need to push towards your goals. Their instructors are passionate about what they do, challenging and encouraging, all while having fun.
““It’s about community, being a team and a sense of pride. The dedication as the sweat drips off your face, knowing you’re getting stronger. the journey is the reward.... and we dress up sometimes””
Community is an important aspect as well in Club XO Fitness - this is what keeps people coming back day after day, and week after week. The owner, Shannon, is passionate about her job, her staff and her clients, and this shows in the way she invests in and connects with the people that enter her gym.
Whether it’s a regular class, an outdoor DJ led spin classes or an 80’s or 90’s music-theme class, Club XO keeps fitness challenging and fun, and is well worth your time checking them out.
Learn more about Club XO here: https://www.clubxo.ca
From their website:
”Club XO is all about an experience. From the moment you walk into the front lounge, we have got you covered: the boxing room, the spin room, the power room, showers, and Tru smoothie bar…
We know life is busy, therefore every class with us is 45 minutes long. Train, shower, grab a smoothie or coffee and go; all within an hour. Experience the next level of fitness with us… book your first class today!”
Startup Grind Chilliwack
/Startup Grind Chilliwack
“Startup Grind is a connected online and offline network of vibrant startup communities to help fuel innovation, economic growth and prosperity at the local level. While Startup Grind was founded in Palo Alto, California, the extended network of Startup Grind chapters are located around the world, including Startup Grind Chilliwack!”
Startup Grind Chilliwack is happening because of the efforts of same amazing people led by Tim McAlpine at Cowork Chilliwack. Meeting the third Tuesday of every month, Startup Grind Chilliwack is an evening of food, drinks and an inspiring interview from a local entrepreneur. Though Startup Grind has a lot of tech backgrounds, McAlpine and crew have been bringing in various people with ranging entrepreneurial leanings (you can check out one of the videos below).
If you have an interest in learning more about what it takes to startup a business or similar endeavours and about local people that are doing exactly that, then we highly recommend you check this monthly event out.
You can learn more here: https://www.startupgrind.com/chilliwack/
Be sure to register, show up early for some food/drinks and meet some amazing people, then enjoy an inspiring hour in the studio. You’ll be happy you did.
Pink Salmon Fishing - Bent Rods Fishing & Guiding Service
/Pink Salmon Fishing - Bent Rods Fishing & Guiding Service
Late into this summer (late August/early September) there will be the return of the pink salmon on the Fraser River and tributary rivers in Chilliwack. With pink salmon only returning once every two years, this is a fantastic and fun fishing chance for everyone from beginners to seasoned anglers and from the young to the old.
We’ve worked with Bent Rods Guiding & Fishing Co. in the past and can say from firsthand experience that Rod is an exceptional guide. Rod spends a lot of time with his guests and goes out of his way to do everything he can to get you into fish to enjoy the thrill of a bend in your rod, and ensures you get the best possible fishing experience.
Aside from guiding services, Rod also sells his own tested and proven fishing tackle. With pink salmon returning to our local rivers this year, Rod has a special on his Pink Salmon Jig kit. You can order it here on his website: https://www.bentrods.ca/specials/pink-salmon-jig-kit
From his website:
”Bent Rods Guiding & Fishing Co. provides year round Guided Sport Fishing for Salmon, Sturgeon, Steelhead & Trout in the Fraser River Valley of British Columbia. We fish the Fraser River, Harrison River, Chilliwack/Vedder River, and many other Southern BC rivers and lakes.”
Learn more about Rod; buy his tackle or book a trip with him:
https://www.bentrods.ca
Ryder Lake Ramble 2019
/
The Ryder Lake Ramble is an eclectic event that brings a community together and invites all to enjoy the unique combination of the wild woods, scenic views and farm life that make up Ryder Lake.
On Jun 15 - Jun 16, this two day, self-guided annual tour allows visitors to meander amongst the farms and gardens of the Ryder Lake community. This years highlights include alpacas, turtles, llamas, goats, horses, frogs, miniature donkeys, sheep and chickens! Several demonstrations will be held at various venues, including llama fibre being spun into yarn, lathe demonstrations, quilting and a sawmill.
You are invited to bring a picnic along to enjoy along your meanderings, and be sure to look for local sales on site which include refreshments, crafts, pottery, jams and jellies, plants, beeswax products, soaps, honey and lavender.
This year tickets will be available on the way up Elk View Rd NOT at the Ryder Lake Hall.
Tickets ($5 per person or $20 for a car-load) will be on sale at 47846 Elk View Road (1 km up the hill by the waterfall as you drive up into Ryder Lake). Note to regular Ramble visitors - there will be no food or activities at the hall this year.
With panoramic views, incredible landscapes, a taste of local artists and local handmade goods, beautiful trails, a goat herd, the toad tunnel and picturesque meadows, this event holds the promise of a day well spent.
Ramble hours are:
10-5 on Saturday, June 15th
and 12-5 on Sunday, June 16th.
Visit the Ryder Lake Ramble for more details on the various venues and for an interactive map.
Learn more about Ryder Lake here: https://ryderlakecommunity.wordpress.com
TEDxChilliwack - Why You Should Attend Next Year
/TEDxChilliwack
Why You Should Attend Next Year
This weekend we attended “TEDxChilliwack: On Purpose”, a year long planning endeavour on behalf of Chilliwack, and we were thoroughly impressed with the contents of the day. The concept of sitting and listening to 12 speakers in a single day may seem daunting, but once you’re there, engrossing topics presented by those within your local community capture your attention and the day flies by.
TedxChilliwack is broken into 4 segments of speakers. These segments consisted of 3 speakers, each speaking for 18 minutes on various subjects all based around the singular theme of “On Purpose”. Some of the big highlights featured the Honourable Steven Point, the 28th Lieutenant Governor of the province of British Columbia, and our local science star, biologist Dr. Carin Bondar.
For us, the most inspiring and thought provoking TEDx talk was presented by agriculturist Dave Dinesan. Dinesan spoke about a more efficient way of farming - a way that uses less resources and produces better food. His talk and the samples brought from his CubicFarms were beyond what you’d imagine. The reality that high quality plants and meat could be made available to us with an eco-friendly ability was greeted with applause and a standing ovation from the audience.
The congenial crowd was friendly and receptive…and the free pizza lunch provided by local realtor, Scot McVetty, was also greeted receptively, as it should be. Live music throughout the day provided entertainment and kept the energy going. Of those live performances, we had our very own Lori Paul and Spiderlodge. Trevor McDonald was also featured, filling in at the last minute.
Three Reasons You Should Attend Next Year:
1) Bigger Community with TEDx
Be a part of a bigger community - a community that is striving to make the world a better place.
2) Learn Something New
Learn something new from someone in your community, and learn how you can be a part of what they’re doing.
3) Turn Local into Global
TEDx is part of a network that is worldwide, and taking the stage at a local TEDx event is one way to see your ideas gain more exposure.
Learn more here: www.tedxchilliwack.com
Community Forest Trails - Chilliwack Park Society
/Community Forest Trails - Chilliwack Park Society
Last week, a beautiful morning was spent hiking through a section of the Community Forest Trails found on the eastern hillsides of Chilliwack (map included below). Just 15 minutes out of the city, snaking up the eastern mountain range of Chilliwack, it’s amazing how just 5 minutes off the highway can transport you away from the daily busyness to a solitude of woodlands.
”The City of Chilliwack, in partnership with the Chilliwack Parks Society and the Fraser Valley Mountain Bike Association, has opened access to 100 acres of City-owned forest property. This park includes picnic facilities, an outhouse and a multi-use trail system for hiking, biking and running.”
- from the City of Chilliwack website (read more here)
Winding up the gravel roads, the entrances to the Community Forest Trails is marked by a large entrance sign and gate (so be aware of what time you are arriving & departing). Once at the top parking lot, there are a number of options for hiking and mountain biking, with varying degrees of difficulty trail options - from trails for experienced hikers to easy trails for little feet that need to be kept busy.
Our hike along the Canyon Loop was aprox. 2.2 km long. With winding paths, trickling creeks, and sun breathing through moss-covered trees, the canyon loop called for plenty of pauses to take in all the beauty of nature. At a fairly steady pace with some younger, medium-sized exuberant feet, it took us just over an hour, though other sites suggest it takes about 1.5 hours to complete.
Community Forest Trails was set-up primarily with volunteers, and is continuously growing and being maintained by those volunteers. There are maps posted throughout the trail to get you on your chosen trail , but as it seems to be a work in progress with several ingeniously hand-drawn updates, it’s always a good idea to take a picture of the map at the main entrance, just in case you need to refer to it later on at a fork in the path.
“In partnership with the City of Chilliwack we have converted an underutilized City owned 130 acre forest into a multi use community park. This park includes a parking lot, picnic facilities, an outhouse and a multi use trail system for hiking, biking and running.”
- From the Chilliwack Park Society about the Community Forest:
With the number of other groups encountered on the forest trails, we weren’t the only ones enjoying this gem, and it was easy to see why. If you’ve never been up to the Community Forest, make sure you add it to your list - there’s something there for all ages. “The trail system is perfect for families or beginner hikers. Pi:txel is 1.5km long and features grades less than 5% and minimal obstacles. There are many longer and more technical options for the more adventurous, including Cholqthet, a downhill flow trail, and the Canyon Loop a 2.2km cross country trail” (Chilliwack Park Society).
Follow the Chilliwack Park Society on Facebook: facebook.com/ChilliwackParkSociety
And on Instagram: instagram.com/chilliwackparksociety/
The following video was shot in the Community Forest for Chilliwack Economic Partners Corp. and shows just a few reasons why Chilliwack is a great place to call home:
Sto:lo Tourism in Chilliwack
/Sto:lo First Nations is always enthusiastic to share their traditions, cultural values, history and stories with the community, with their fairly recently updated Interpretive Centre, the Coqualeetza Educational Longhouse and their Gift Shop, we highly recommend going to check it out.
“The Coqualeetza Educational Longhouse serves as a sanctuary for Stó:lō traditions, knowledge, and ceremonies” -stolotoursim.com
We had the opportunity to tag along on a recent school field trip to enjoy their well-done educational program. Presenters shared stories about their uncles, grandfathers or grandmothers which had the children thoroughly engaged - stories about fishing, making canoes and making nets. Artifacts on display were explained, with the children given a chance to handle some of them. The children also got to participate in a drum circle and learn songs while each playing a drum, enjoy bannock, as well as participate in making bracelets out of cedar.
Though we got to enjoy this unique experience with elementary classrooms, Sto:lo also offers an invitation to the general public to participate in their Guided Cultural Grounds Tours, which is available every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 1-2:30 p.m. Sto:lo tourism advises to call ahead, even if it is just the morning of, to ensure staff is available for a guided tour. Tours meet in front of 7201 Vedder Rd, Building #10, Chilliwack, B.C. - follow the Gift Shop signs).
Visit their website for more details and for contact information.
What To Do in Chilliwack - 5 Things To Do In Chilliwack
/What To Do in Chilliwack - 6 Things To Do In Chilliwack
The Community Forest Trails
Winding up the gravel roads, the entrances to the Community Forest Trails is marked by a large entrance sign and gate (so be aware of what time you are arriving & departing). Once at the top parking lot, there are a number of options for hiking and mountain biking, with varying degrees of difficulty trail options - from trails for experienced hikers to easy trails for little feet that need to be kept busy…
Read more here: https://www.aroundchilliwack.ca/what-to-do-in-chilliwack//community-forest-trails-chilliwack-park-society
Sto:lo Tourism in Chilliwack
Sto:lo First Nations is always enthusiastic to share their traditions, cultural values, history and stories with the community, with their fairly recently updated Interpretive Centre, the Coqualeetza Educational Longhouse and their Gift Shop, we highly recommend going to check it out…
Read more here: https://www.aroundchilliwack.ca/what-to-do-in-chilliwack//stolo-tourism-in-chilliwack
Peach Creek Rotary Trail
Peach Creek and the surrounding area is a popular stop for a wide variety of people. Local schools who participate in a salmonid learning program often visit the creek as it offers several marked areas along the creek where students can easily release their salmon, and with the Vedder River so close and easily accessible, it is the perfect stop for a Sunday riverside family picnic.
Read more here: https://www.aroundchilliwack.ca/what-to-do-in-chilliwack//peach-creek-rotary-trail-where-to-walk-in-chilliwack
Hillkeep Regional Park - What To Do in Chilliwack
Hillkeep Regional Park is located at 43357 Hillkeep Place (map below), situated on the top of Chilliwack Mountain. This 36-acre nature reserve is land that was donated by local residents and is the perfect habitat for nature walks and bird watching. Into photography? Have your camera ready for when the light comes through the trees just right to capture the perfect shot.
Read more here: https://www.aroundchilliwack.ca/what-to-do-in-chilliwack//hillkeep-regional-park-what-to-do-in-chilliwack
Chillibowl Lanes - What To Do in Chilliwack
The two floors of bowling offer two different experiences. Downstairs you have 12 lanes of your traditional 5 pin bowling, while upstairs offers you 12 exciting lanes, complete with disco lights and music! Be sure to look at Chillibowl Lanes when you’re looking for a high action venue to plan your next party or event.
Read more here: https://www.aroundchilliwack.ca/what-to-do-in-chilliwack//chillibowl-lanes
Peach Creek Rotary Trail - Where to Walk in Chilliwack
/
The Peach Creek Rotary Trail offers a peaceful walk along a salmon spawning channel and hosts several viewing benches available to enjoy the view of birds over the marsh, hear the creek babble, spot swimming fish and find evidence of working beavers.
Easily accessible from the Lickman Vedder Parking Lot and approximately 1.7 km long, the level-walking trail is well maintained for all to enjoy. It connects to the Vedder Rotary Trail at two points to create walking loop, and also connects to the Vedder North Dyke Trail at several other few points.
Peach Creek and the surrounding area is a popular stop for a wide variety of people. Local schools who participate in a salmonid learning program often visit the creek as it offers several marked areas along the creek where students can easily release their salmon, and with the Vedder River so close and easily accessible, it is the perfect stop for a Sunday riverside family picnic.
Click here to view a trail map of the surrounding area.
Washrooms available at the parking lot and along the Vedder Rotary Trail. Visit the City of Chilliwack’s website for more information.
The Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve in Winter
/
With an expansive collection of well-maintained trails, many of them graveled and smooth, the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve offers an easy place to still enjoy the outdoors, even in inclement weather. We spent a rainy afternoon exploring the Vedder Rotary Trail East Loop, and managed to still come home with our toes dry!
To take the East Loop trail, follow the Centre Trail to the end and take a left. This new trail takes you through the woods, past our “forest friends” (see photos), under the train tracks and along the Vedder River. There is a small, woodland trail that runs along the Vedder Rotary Trail at some point, but for the sake of dry feet, we stayed on the Rotary Trail. To get back to the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve (GBHNR) you can cut through the parking lot and take the North Dyke Trail back, or turn around and head back along the same route. This loop is about 3.6 km and took us about an hour to complete.
Explore the nature reserve through their map online or download it before you head out on the trail!
The GBHNR has an Interpretive Centre, gift shop and washroom run by volunteers. There are also outhouses available along the Rotary Trail, in case you’ve missed the hours they are open. The GBHNR also runs education programs, tours and has no admission fees.
Though home to over 95 nests, the Great Blue Herons don’t nest until the end of February/early March (GBHNR, 2015).
With a lookout tower and various blinds, the nature reserve a great place to see herons, ducks, birds, frogs and other wildlife, as well as a popular place for photographers and for family photos! The GBHNR Society also runs some fantastic educational programs that we have experienced first-hand.
Be sure to visit their website to view their hours, programs, trail maps and blue heron info.
