You don’t have to travel to the North Shore to get in a good hike and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

RELATED: 27 Scenic Hikes To Tackle In Metro Vancouver This Spring

Fraser Valley Hikes

Abbotsford

Abby Grind: The steep 4-km trek is Abbotsford’s version of the Grouse Grind. There’s an elevation gain of 330-metres and it takes about 1.5 hours to complete round-trip. The scenic viewing point at the top makes it all worth it in the end.

Chilliwack

Teapot Hill: An easy but whimsical nature trail with abandoned teapots located throughout. It’s an easy 5-km walk near Cultus Lake that offers incredible views.

Bridal Veil Falls: At less than 1-km this is a very easy little nature trail with breathtaking views of the cascading waterfall.

Elk Mountain: Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with stunning views of Chilliwack, Cultus Lake and the surrounding areas of the Fraser Valley. The 7-km hike has an elevation gain of 800-metres and takes about 4-hours to complete.

Vedder Ridge Trail: This route travels along the west side of Cultus Lake to the top of Vedder Mountain. The 9-km route takes about 3.5-hours to complete but offers unsurpassed views once you reach the top.

Lindeman Lake: A serene hidden gem that you must explore. The 3.4-km route takes you uphill to both Lindeman and Greendrop Lakes. It takes about 2-hours to complete and has an elevation gain of 300-metres.

Hope

Flood Falls: Bask in the beauty of the absolutely stunning waterfalls during this easy 1-km hike in Hope.

Othello Tunnels (CURRENTLY CLOSED): The tunnels are filled with history and make for a peaceful walk just east of Hope. The 3.5-km trail takes you through a series of tunnels and bridges over the Coquihalla River.

Harrison

Harrison Grind: Much like the Grouse Grind and the Abby Grind, this is a steep hike but it leads to stunning views of Harrison Lake. The 7-km trek takes about 6-hours to complete and has an elevation gain of 620-metres.

Spirit Trail: The magical little nature trail has dozens of beautifully hand-crafted masks located through out. Discover them all as you walk along this easy 1-km loop.

Looking for more adventures? Check out the second largest hot springs in Canada or go chase waterfalls on Vancouver Island.

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What most people don’t know about this district are its hidden marvels. Ranging from cascading waterfalls to unique outdoor forts, the Fraser Valley is full of pleasant surprises.

Check out the following list and make your next weekend plans to the Fraser Valley a bit more interesting.

RELATED: This Abbotsford Park’s Golden Tree Looks Straight Out Of Game Of Thrones

Must See Hidden Gems In the Fraser Valley

Alpaca Farm

Alpacas are usually associated with the vast peaks of Machu Picchu, but this farm in the middle of Langley gives citizens a taste of Peru.

Kensington Prairie Farm houses over 50 alpacas, all with arguably the softest fleece on earth. A mixture of rescue, imported, and locally raised alpacas, this Langley Farm lovingly raises them and educates the community about the species.

Take a swing by the farm to check these charming animals in action, or stop by in April to watch some shearing action!

Bridal Veil Falls

Located in East Chilliwack, Bridal Veil Falls is breathtaking. Originally used to power the electricity in Bridal Falls Chalet, the waterfall flows down 120 metres in a ‘veil-like’ effect, which is where it got its name.

It’s part of a larger provincial park, which also has trails, picnic spots, and insane scenery viewpoints. TLC was wrong, do go chasing waterfalls and find out why our province is called Beautiful British Columbia. You can learn more about the waterfall on the BC parks website.

Ancient Elixir

How many times in a lifetime do you get to say you’ve consumed the first ever alcoholic beverage consumed by man?

At Campbell’s Gold in Abbotsford, the timeless drink of Mead (also known as ‘Honey Wine’) is made to enjoy. Available in both dry and sweet varieties, Mead is made out of a mixture of honey, water, and yeast.

Stop by their tasting room for a taste of the mythical nectar of the gods! You can learn more about this on their website.

Cascade Falls

East of Mission, this picturesque waterfall smoothly flows into a gleaming emerald pool, creating an entrancing vision to look at.

As if the majestic waterfall itself wasn’t enough, there’s also a 22 hectare park with hiking trails enclosed by a lush forest and windy creek that carves its way around a ravine.

View beauty at its finest at this Regional Park. You can learn more about it here.

Vancouver’s Only Fort

Did you know that Fort Langley holds Vancouver’s only fort?

Parks Canada has brought around the concept of oTENTik’s, a mix of A-Frame cabins and prospector tents raised up from the ground.

Water resistant and fully set up from the inside, it’s the perfect staycation. There are five OTENTik’s, each with a different theme related to the heritage of the various workers that have dedicated themselves to Fort Langley: First Nations, Hawaiian, French-Canadian Voyageurs, North American Gold Prospectors, and the Scottish Boat Builder’s.

Available from May to October, each unit holds up to six people. Booking starts January 3rd, so call and book today for this once in a lifetime opportunity! You can learn more about it here.

Hells Gate

No, not the ride at the PNE.

Hells Gate is a narrow, thrashing stream that forces 750 million litres of water that goes through a 33 metre wide passage in the Fraser Canyon. It was given its name after one of Simon Fraser’s comments during his treacherous trek for a better route during the fur trading days.

You can experience Hells Gate in all its glory by taking an airtram, one of the perpendicular fully suspended trams in all of North America. If heights aren’t your thing, there are also other activities, such as a fisheries exhibit, gold panning, fudge factory, and observation decks. You can book tickets on their website.

100 Year Old Powerhouse

Considering that Canada is only 153 years old, it’s impressive that the powerhouse at Stave Falls is 100 years old —almost as old as the country itself.

The power generating facility is also a National Historic Site of Canada, holding archival photos, artifacts, and century old mechanical equipment.

Rumours are that it might be haunted, go check for yourself!

Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery

Is there anything more incredible than the circle of life?

At the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery in Abbotsford, you’re able to get hands on with some fish. You can observe them hatch, do some catch and release fishing, and get educated about how to help conserve trout.

A family friendly outing, you’re sure to leave loving fish even more than you did when watching Finding Nemo. You can learn more about this on their website.

Hot Springs Getaway

An enchanting little village on the south end of the Fraser Valley, Harrison Hot Springs is widely known for its namesake, the hot springs.

The springs were discovered in 1858 by settlers. Over time, people discovered that the springs are a combination of Potash and Sulphur, which come up to the high temperatures of 40 degrees celsius and 60 degrees celsius.

Water in pumped in from the outdoor springs into one visitors can use at a reasonable 38 degrees celsius. If you need a short getaway that includes a built in spa, this is the place to go.

World’s Biggest Sturgeon

If someone told you that the Fraser River was capable of some of the biggest fish in North America under its calm waters, would you believe them?

Well, you better believe your eyes. There have been several instances where rare albino sturgeon have been caught, each fish over 10 feet long. The record was an astounding 12 foot and four inch long sturgeon, weighing in at about 1100 pounds.

A recent record came close, with an 11 foot long and 750 pound monster of a sturgeon.

Go try your luck today and become the next sturgeon hunter!

Outdoor Drive-In Theatre

One of the last three remaining drive-in theatres in all of British Columbia, the Twilight Drive-In stands proud. Representing the years of theatre it took to get to where we are now, it’s truly a juxtaposition of old and new. For their current showings, you can visit their website here.

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With acres upon acres of vibrant bulbs and dozens of varieties to explore — these spots make for the ultimate photo op.

RELATED: Cherry Blossoms Are About To Reach Full Bloom Across Metro Vancouver (PHOTOS)

Tulip Festivals near Vancouver

Chilliwack Botanica Tulip Festival

 

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Wander through scenic pathways with thousands of tulips on either side to brighten your view every step of the way. The Chilliwack Botanica Tulip Festival has a stunning array of beautiful blossoms. It also has some other beautiful flowers to enjoy while you’re there — including plenty of aromatic hyacinths and double daffodils.

The Botanica festival begins on April 12th and will run for approximately 3-4 weeks. The actual length of the festival will depend on the weather and the temperatures. So be sure to check their website for tickets before making plans. Expect to explore a beautiful flower-scape spanning across 13 acres, boasting over 1.5 million bulbs and 59 distinct tulip varieties. The tulip varieties unfold at different times, with a variety of blooms throughout the season.

When & Where: April 12 – mid May, from 9am – 7pm weekdays, and 5am – 7 pm weekends at 41310 Royalwood Drive, Chilliwack
Cost: $10-$40

Harrison Tulip Festival By Onos Farms

 

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The Harrison Tulip Festival was originally established in 2006, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore blossoming fields in Agassiz. They then relocated to Chilliwack in 2017 as the Chilliwack Tulip Festival, and now it has returned to its roots in Agassiz and reopening on April 8th of this year.

Set against the stunning backdrop of mountain vistas, the festival invites guests to wander through pathways adorned with 10 million tulips, accompanied by the delightful scents of hyacinths and double daffodils. Additionally, the 2024 season introduces a new 2 1/2 acre show garden featuring a diverse array of blooms carefully nestled among mature fruit trees and flowering shrubs, promising an enhanced sensory experience for all who visit.

When & Where: April  8 – May 5, open daily from 10am – 6:30pm at 5039 Lougheed Highway, Agassiz
Cost: $7-$12

Abbotsford Tulip Festival

 

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Lakeland Flowers has six months worth of flower festivals in store this year — starting of course with the Abbotsford Tulip Festival. The festival features 35 acres of tulip fields, showcasing more than 100 different tulip varieties. That includes specialty varietals that have been imported from Holland, like fringe tulips and double tulips.

The Abbotsford Tulip Festival is open seven days a week, starting on April 6 and ending mid-may. Photo props include bicycles and swings. Visitors are welcome to pack a picnic and can also enjoy live music and food trucks on select weekends.

When & Where: April 6 – mid May, open daily from 8am – dark, at 3663 Marion Road, Abbotsford
Cost: $10 – $20

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Washington

There are plenty of picturesque bulbs to explore south of the border as well. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the largest tulip festival in Washington.

This festival consist of multiple tulip fields and is designed as a driving tour as there is no one “site” to enter. The fields of tulips are scattered throughout the Skagit Valley as are the many events and activities that make up the annual event. Although the festival itself is free, entry to each of the fields varies.

When: Open now until April 30.

Tulip Town

 

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• What to expect: 18 acres and over 50 types of Tulips
• Cost: $15-$20 USD
• Location: 15002 Bradshaw Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, USA
• Highlight: They have a Dutch windmill for a beautiful photo op

Roozengaarde

 

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• What to expect: 50 acres and over 200 types of Tulip & Daffodil varieties
• Cost: $15-18 USD
• Location: 15867 Beaver Marsh Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, USA
• Highlight: They have a beautiful garden path and swings

Tulip Valley Farms

 

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• What to expect: 12 acres and over 75 types of Tulips
• Cost: $13.50 – $19.50 USD
• Location: 15245 Bradshaw Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, USA
• Highlight: Along with Tulips they have a farm with highland cattle

Garden Rosalyn

 

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• What to expect: 7 acres and several types of Tulips
• Cost: $19 USD
• Location: 16648 Jungquist Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273, USA
• Highlights: Smaller garden with a beautiful windmill and great for pets

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Lakeland Flower’s tulip festival, Bloom, is a major attraction in Abbotsford. Each year, it draws visitors from all over the province and beyond to witness the stunning display of colorful blooms set against the picturesque backdrop of the surrounding mountains.

RELATED: Cherry Blossoms Are About To Reach Full Bloom Across Metro Vancouver (PHOTOS)

Abbotsford’s Tulip Festival 2024

This year, Lakeland Flowers will open from April 6th until mid May from 8am – dark. However, these dates may vary depending on weather. Tickets range from $8 to $20, and there is free entry for children under 3. Currently, season passes are available on sale starting at $50.

Visitors will have the opportunity to stroll through 35 acres of blooming tulips and explore over 100 varieties of these beautiful flowers. However, please note that this is an outdoor event and takes place rain or shine.

The venue recommends that visitors check the weather report before leaving their homes and dress accordingly. Rubber boots and umbrellas are encouraged as the fields can get muddy.

 

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About Lakeland Flowers

Lakeland Flowers is a family-owned business that has been growing tulips in the Fraser Valley for over 40 years. The farm has a reputation for producing high-quality flowers. Their tulips are prized for their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms.

The 2022 floods caused significant damage to the farm. However, the owners have been working tirelessly to get the business back up and running. With the support of the local community, they have rebuilt and restored the farm, and reopened in 2023.

In addition to tulips, Lakeland Flowers is planning to have 6 months of flower festivals.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras and capture the beauty of the tulips in full bloom. With over 70 varieties to choose from, there is no shortage of stunning photo opportunities.

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Skilled trades and technologies are essential and all around us, encompassing a wide variety of careers from plumbing, carpentry, landscaping, baking, fashion, aesthetics, game art, graphic design and much more!

At the 2024 Skills Canada BC Competition you will witness 600+ young competitors competing in 56 different leading trade and technology career competitions. You will also get the chance to meet local tradespeople at the Pathways to Careers Showcase, get hands on with the Try-a-Trade activities and experience an event full of of pride, hard work and passion for the trades and technologies!

Admission is free to the public and all are welcome, school field trips are also highly encouraged.

Competitions will start at 8:00 am, with the excitement lasting through to the 5:30 pm medal ceremony.

Visit www.skillscanada.bc.ca for more information.

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This Fraser Valley gem offers a plethora of unique dining experiences, including its all-new Wine Cabanas.

RELATED: You Can Have A Personal Wine and Cheese Tasting Inside A Dome in BC

Wintertime at Singletree Wine Cabanas

Wine and dine your significant other by booking out one of these cozy cabanas. They’re just $25 per person (must be 19+). The price includes your first glass of wine and 90 minutes in ones of the cabanas.

You can add on to your visit with the the additional purchase of a bottle or glass of wine, or another specialty drink, like a mug of mulled wine, mulled cider, spiked hot chocolate, or a hot toddy.

 

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Further enhance your experience by adding some food options, including the winery’s Charcuterie for Two or Chip ‘n’ Dip Trio spreads.

And those with a sweet tooth may want to add the “S’more and Pour” package to their visit, where they can roast marshmallows over the fire pit and choose from a series of scrumptious gourmet s’more selections.

Di Vine Dome Tasting Experience

Singletree Winery also offers a unique dome dining experience with its Instagram-worthy Di Vine Domes.

Book out either their Enchanted Forest or Canadian Cabin domes, both of which offer the perfect backdrop for a wine tasting outing this winter.

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The domes are available for bookings Wednesday through Sunday at noon, 2 pm and 4 pm seatings. It’s $35 per person, which includes your first glass of wine and 90 minutes in a Di Vine Dome.

Much like the Wine Cabanas, you can add on extra drink and food options for an additional cost to completely customize your visit.

 

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For more information on these one-of-a-kind dining experiences, visit Singletree Winery’s website.

Singletree Winery

Address: 5782 Mount Lehman Road, Abbotsford

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There’s plenty to do, see, and explore that the entire family will enjoy! This includes:

• A petting zoo
• Free ice cream 
• Face painting (on Saturday only)
• Balloon artists (on Saturday only)
• Rabbitat, a rabbit rescue non-profit 
• Climbing monster tractors and machines 
• A vintage farm equipment museum

This is a local-run event that’s designed for people to connect and learn more about where our food comes from, as well as highlight how important farmers are for our communities.

The event will be taking place January 25-27, Thursday thru Saturday from 9:00 am – 4:30 pm.

Tickets are currently for sale online.

• General: $15 (plus tax)
• Seniors and 4H: $10 (plus tax)
• Kids under 14: FREE!

The post Pacific Agriculture Show appeared first on 604 Now.

Joining Brian and his band is a growing list of special musical guests including Carolyn Arends, Marika Siewert, Brian & Loralee Thiessen and more to come.

Brian is a songwriter, recording artist, author, conference speaker and pastor, but most of all he loves spending time with his high-school sweetheart Joyce of 39 years.

Brian & Joyce have 4 daughters and 2 sons with Fragile X Syndrome. His songs are known and sung internationally in faith communities of all kinds including ‘Come Now is the Time to Worship’, ‘Refiner’s Fire’, ‘Hope Of The Nations’ and ‘The River.’

The event will take place on Saturday December 2nd from 7pm to 9:15pm. General admission tickets start at $6.99, and group rates as well as a VIP experience is also available online for purchase.

The post Home For Christmas with Brian Doerksen & Friends appeared first on 604 Now.

Featuring:

• 30 Carefully Selected Artisans offering a wide variety of products – no duplicate tables
• Hundreds of Stocking Stuffer Items under $5 $10 & $20!
• Cash Bar; Sip and Shop (Note – Bar takes ONLY Cash)
• Draws for Market Cash or Raffle Baskets
• Food Trucks
• Free Parking and Admission

Get those last few people crossed off your list or if you’re done it’s time for a relaxing night out and some goodies for you! Our talented vendor list will blow your mind. 🤯

The event will be taking place on Friday December 15th from 4-10pm. Admission is free. Check it out on the pinned post of our Facebook event page.

The post Eleventh Hour Artisan Market appeared first on 604 Now.

The home-grown holiday shop is must see place for any Yuletide lovers celebrating the joy of Christmas.

RELATED: Take a Magical Train Ride to Santa’s Workshop this Winter

Glenda’s Christmas Cottage 2023

Entering its 35^th anniversary with enchanting charm, Glenda’s Christmas Cottage greets you right away with a festive red front door. Inside the boutique you’ll find dazzling collections of Christmas ornaments sure to check off gift ideas on your list.

 

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Celebrate the warm, elegant and earthy touches of sage green with a woodland Santa figure. Or go for the glitter with luxurious champagne colored gold balls. Or tap into the rustic comfort of antique white metal snowflakes.

Glenda’s also carries highly popular Christmas collectibles such as Byers Choice Carollers, Authentic Dickens Village, Snowbabies, and more.

Don’t forget to grab a delectable mug of hot spiced apple juice to sip on while you browse!

The shop also hosts fun holiday events, including:

• Dicken’s Village Celebration – November 2
• Tree Decorating Class – November 24
• Santa In The Country – November 25
• Christmas Mat Painting Class – November 30
• Christmas Picture Painting Class – December 6

Whether its to decorate your fireplace with a snow globe, or adorn your tree with lights that sparkle, Glenda’s Christmas Cottage should be at the top of your list.

 

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Event Details

Glenda’s Christmas Cottage is located on 4557 Mt Lehman Road in Abbotsford, BC. The store is open for both online and in-store shopping throughout the season.

In-store shopping begins on November 1 and runs until December 23. Online shopping is available now until January 30.

Store hours are:

• Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday: 10am to 5pm
• Wednesday: 10am to 5pm
• Thursday: 10am to 5pm
• Friday: 10am to 7:30pm
• Saturday: 10am to 5pm

For more local attractions, check out our new events calendar.

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