Easy hikes and walks around Fraser Valley D

There’s no formal parking lot at the Green Grind trailhead, so expect to park along the access road and walk the remaining distance if needed. Don’t park in front of the gate, as access needs to remain clear. The trail continues past the UBC research station.

The Agassiz Grind is short, but don’t underestimate it. The trail gains around 274 metres over roughly 3.7 kilometres, with some sharp grades, rocky and root-covered sections, and stretches that can be wet or slippery. It starts on a gravel road near the UBC research station before heading into the forest, so expect more of a workout than the distance suggests.

Green Hill is the high point of the Agassiz Green Grind, with views opening across Agassiz, the Fraser Valley and the surrounding mountains after the steep climb through the forest. The summit area is fairly simple rather than a developed lookout, but it’s a good place to stop and catch your breath before heading back down. The descent can feel much steeper than the climb in places, especially when the trail is wet.

From here, Bridal Creek winds through the wetlands on its way towards Cheam Lake. The water starts higher up on Mount Archibald and feeds Bridal Veil Falls before continuing downstream as Bridal Creek into the park. It’s a nice connection to the much bigger waterfall nearby, especially when you see how small and quiet the creek becomes once it reaches the wetlands.

Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park protects a mix of lake, marsh and forest habitat just east of Chilliwack. The trails are flat and easy to follow, with boardwalks bringing you close to the wetlands without disturbing the habitat. It’s especially good for birdwatching, with 184 species recorded in the park. Bikes and dogs aren’t permitted, and visitors are asked to stay on the trails because the wetland habitat is sensitive.

From here, you get one of the best views across Cheam Lake, with the mountains of the eastern Fraser Valley rising behind the wetlands. The viewing platform and boardwalk are good spots to stop and scan the water for ducks, geese and other waterfowl. Early morning is especially good for bird activity, and the still water can make the mountain reflections particularly clear.

Bridge Road follows a quiet stretch of the Fraser River, passing through open farmland with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Parts of the route are open and exposed, with gravel sections, riverside clearings, and changing views of the water and peaks in the distance. Though the trail is relatively straightforward, the scenery is what makes this route worthwhile, so take your time and enjoy the views as you go.

The Fraser River is the longest in British Columbia, flowing more than 1,300 kilometres from the Rocky Mountains to the Strait of Georgia near Vancouver. Along this section, the river cuts through a wide valley backed by forested hills and mountain views, creating a picturesque natural setting along the trail. The Fraser is also home to salmon, sturgeon, and plenty of birdlife, so keep an eye out as you walk along its banks.