Trailblazers: The Ultimate Three-Day Chilliwack Adventure

Itineraries, Outdoor Adventure, Summer

So you’re the outdoorsy type — always chasing the next summit, discovering fresh trails, and believing that the best views are the ones you work for.

Good news: Chilliwack’s wild spaces are calling, and they’re ready for you!

Before You Explore:

• Check road conditions HERE, find out the right gear for your adventure HERE, and share your plans with someone you trust.
  
• Stay on the marked trails, leave nature untouched, and return it exactly as you found it. Pack out all waste!
  
• Prioritize safety around water, wildlife, and fire.
  
• Honour the land you travel through—move with care, awareness, and gratitude.
  

This is how we Protect This Gift—together. Learn more HERE.

Day 1: Summit and Savour

Kick off your adventure by fueling up at Hofstede’s Country Barn (45796 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack, BC). Locals love it — and you will too — for the fresh produce, trail-worthy sandwiches, and seasonal snacks. Packing a trail lunch now means more time spent on the mountain and less time worrying later.

You’ve fueled up and you’re ready — time to take on Elk Mountain. This 8.2 km out-and-back trail climbs a hefty 788 m, serving up a serious leg burner that rewards you with epic views of Mount Baker, the Fraser Valley, and wildflower-studded ridgelines in late summer.

Start by heading up Elk View Road and then a gravel stretch for the last 2 km (fine for most cars, but take it slow if you’re low clearance). Parking is limited and fills fast on sunny days, so arrive early. At the trailhead, look for the big “Elk/Thurston” sign — your climb starts right there.

The trail winds through the forest on a soft path before crossing a logging road and kicking up with steep switchbacks and loose shale, so good boots are a must. Around 3.5 km in, a lookout teases what’s ahead; then it’s back through the trees and out onto open ridges. You’ll spot wind socks near the top — that’s the unofficial summit. Just beyond, the true summit waits with a bench and some of Chilliwack’s best views.

Bring lots of water, wear proper gear, and file a Trip Plan at Chilliwack Search & Rescue. And on the way down? Take it slow — those steep, slick sections demand respect.

When the summit is conquered and your legs are humming, head back to town for a proper reward. Sidekick Brewing (106-45530 Vedder Mountain Road) serves up craft beer* and hearty eats in a relaxed setting, overlooking the gorgeous Vedder River — the perfect vibe after a day spent earning it.

*Please drink responsibly.

Don’t forget to stop at Banter Ice Cream just a few doors down (45530 Vedder Mountain Road) — because a day this good deserves a proper sweet ending. We recommend their Marble Malt Cookie Dough Ice Cream (but also check out their special monthly flavours!)

Day 2: Rest, Stretch, and See More Outdoors

After a tough hike, you’ll likely want to start the day slow. Make your way to Land Studio & Cafe (102-45530 Vedder Mountain Road), perched along the banks of the Vedder River (you were just there last night!) It’s a vibrant and calming space that offers a delish menu; perfect for a late breakfast/early lunch! Their Rose Hibiscus Tea Lemonade and Surfers’ Brekky Burrito are local legends.

BONUS TIP: If your calves are still achin’, stick around — Land offers yoga classes onsite, the perfect reset before more exploration! Be sure to book your session ahead of time and check their online schedule.

Once you’re recharged and ready, dive into your next adventure with a Guided Outdoor Excursion from Ascent Guides (5643 Vedder Road). Take your pick from Packrafting Courses, Mountain Biking Shuttles, Paragliding Tandem Flights, Outdoor Climbing, and more. Get in touch HERE to find out which experience is the perfect match for your day outdoors.

Dinner time! Head to Major League 2 Taphouse & Sports Pub (45768 Gaetz Street), a friendly local spot serving up generous, comforting plates perfect for resting your body and ending the day full and happy. Order the Major League Smash Burger to satisfy your appetite!

Day 3: One More Trail Before Home

On your final morning, ease into it with breakfast at Loose Caboose Café (104-8950 Young Road), a welcoming, family-run gem known for hearty homemade breakfasts (especially the always-perfect Eggs Benedict), warm service from owners Bruce and Grace, and a cozy, hometown feel that keeps locals coming back. It’s classic, casual, and exactly what you need before squeezing in one last adventure.

There’s no better way to say goodbye to Chilliwack than with a final hike. Check out the Qoqó:lem Trail (45076 Vedder Mountain Road) — a 4.8 km out-and-back with a steady 318 m climb — perfect for capping off the trip with forest views, breezy open plateaus, and just enough solitude to reflect on the wild memories you’ve made. This moderate, well-maintained trail is close to town but feels worlds away, making it an ideal last adventure.

Let’s Get Going!

Now that you’ve got your itinerary set, let’s find you a place to rest your head each night!

Vedder River Inn | 5788 Vedder Road

• Nestled in Chilliwack’s stunning Fraser Valley, the Vedder River Inn is your cozy home base for all things adventure – whether it’s hiking rugged trails, biking riverside paths, fishing or kayaking the Vedder River or capping off your day with local craft beers on a patio nearby. Rustic, peaceful, and minutes from rock climbing, golfing, and epic river rafting, it’s the perfect stay for those who live to explore. Click HERE to book your stay.

For a full list of our local Campgrounds/RV Parks, click HERE.

Pro Tips for a Seamless Adventure:

• Pick Your Hike: Grab your Hiking Guide at Tourism Ch’illiwack’s Visitor & Info Centre (44150 Luckakuck Way) or download it HERE, and choose a hike that works best for you!
• Gear Up: Stop by Mt. Waddington’s Outdoors (5643 Vedder Road) in Chilliwack for last-minute hiking essentials, bear spray, and other outdoor adventure supplies.
• Trip Planning: There’s no cell service in the backcountry — file a plan at Chilliwack Search & Rescue and tell someone where you’re going.

So, what do you think? Pretty much the perfect day, right? We sure think so.

We’d love to come along for the ride — so don’t forget to tag us @tourismchilliwack and use #ShareChilliwack to show us your adventures.

Catch you out there — in The Great Outside!

Learn more about The Great Outside, click HERE.