Outdoor Adventure

Hikes and Walks around Abbotsford

June 28, 2019

Abbotsford’s natural location nestled between prairies and mountains boasts many interesting walks and hikes for all experience levels.

Urban parks and forests are well-maintained and offer easy access for afternoon strolls and picnic lunches. Sumas Mountain presents more challenging terrain for adventure seekers and experienced hikers.

Here are six favourite spots for locals and visitors alike.

Chadsey Lake

Also known as Lost Lake, this local favourite is popular for fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The 4.6 kilometre return trip offers several trail options plus a second hike from the lake. This high-elevation experience is for intermediate hikers who don’t mind scrambling up slippery inclines and log steps.

Address: Upper Sumas Mt. Road, Sumas Mountain
What’s nearby: Eastern Valley Lookout Trail, Sumas Mountain Regional Park
What to pack: Hiking boots, layers, snacks, water, bear spray, bug spray, picnic lunch
Dogs: On-leash

Discovery Trail

Connecting east and west Abbotsford, this extensive trail system (the west section is 32 kilometres and the east section is 30 kilometres) is great for walking, jogging, cycling, and rollerblading. Winding through natural habitats like forests and ponds, the paved interpretive trails allow for exercise, learning, and observing.

Address: The Discovery Trail crosses the city and has many entry/exit points. Download the trail map and plan your journey ahead of time
What to pack: Comfortable shoes, picnic lunch, snacks, water, camera
Dogs: Some off-leash areas

Fishtrap Creek Park

Escape the city without leaving it at Fishtrap Creek Park. Developed around Abbotsford’s storm-water system, enjoy the 3.5 kilometre forested hike winding past wetlands and marshes. The paved trails, benches, gazebos, and picnic tables allow people of all ages to enjoy the local flora and fauna and make pit stops along the way. While it’s possible to see backyards and houses in some parts, most of this urban park is well-treed and offers the tranquil sounds of birds singing and frogs croaking.

Address: 31580 Maclure Road, V2T 4K9
Nearby: Ellwood Softball Park, Abbotsford Judo Club, Discovery Trail
What to pack: Comfortable shoes, camera, picnic lunch
Dogs: Some off-leash areas

Matsqui Trail Regional Park

Enjoy a leisurely six kilometre walk along the Fraser River on the well-groomed trails at Matsqui Trail Regional Park. This flat and low-level hike gives visitors views of riverbanks overlooking Mission, tranquil farmland, and the surrounding Cascade mountains. An inviting picnic area is adjacent to the parking lot.

Address: Trans Canada Trail, Near Fraser River, V3G 1N2
Nearby: Warkentin Organic Farm, Howard Wong Farms, Matsqui Cafe, Lepp Farm Market
What to pack: Comfortable shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, picnic lunch
Dogs: On-leash

Willband Creek Park

Perfect for birders, this flat 2.6 kilometre looped trail begins from the parking lot and circles two retention ponds. Features include beautiful prairie views with mountain ranges in back, urban wetlands (139 different bird species have been seen at this site), parking lot, and picnic area. One part of the trail parallels Highway 11 so expect some noise from fast-moving traffic.

Address: 34350 Bateman Road, V2S 8E9
Nearby: Westberry Farms, Clayburn Village, Lepp Farm Market
What to pack: Comfortable shoes, binoculars, camera, picnic lunch
Dogs: On-leash

Mill Lake Park

Located in central Abbotsford, there’s something for everyone at Mill Lake. Enjoy the flat, paved 2.3 kilometre trail circling the lake at your own pace, taking in the variety of waterfowl and migratory birds and spectacular view of Mt. Baker. Pack a lunch and enjoy a spot by the spray park, playground, or in one of the many quiet picnic areas.

Address: 2310 Emerson Street, Mill Lake, V2T 3N8
Nearby: Kariton Art Gallery, Trethewey House Heritage Site Museum, Sevenoaks Shopping Centre
What to pack: Comfortable shoes, swimming suits for children, picnic lunch, sunscreen
Dogs: On-leash

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