Because of COVID-19 and the rapidly evolving situation in BC, heading out for a walk may not be recommended for everyone. Please check the current provincial health orders to ensure you are going for a walk in a safe way and complying by recommendations in order to protect yourself and those around you.
Many of us reside in the ‘Wack because well, the mountains, the forests and the river, basically... NATURE. What could be better than having huge mountains, roaring rivers and towering trees right in your backyard? Yes, some explorations we take into nature are big and require a whole day (hello Mt.Cheam), but sometimes you just need a little last-minute walk in the woods, or beside a river, am I right? Especially these days! And that’s why we love The Vedder River Rotary Trail.
If you haven’t heard (where have you been!?) the Vedder River Rotary Trail is a beautiful, relatively flat trail that follows the Vedder River for about 8km (16km round trip) and offers beautiful, scenic views. It’s frequented by walkers, horseback riders, joggers, fishermen, cyclists, and many, many happy doggos!
The great thing about the Rotary Trail is that there are numerous parking lots along the trail so you can choose to do as much or as little of the trail as you prefer! There are so many ways to tackle this trail, so we won’t lay it all out for you. But here are a few of our favourite things to do on the trail whether you’re walking, running, pushing a stroller or biking (while keeping a safe two-meter distance from yourself and others):
Take in the Wildlife
Anywhere along the river, you’re bound to take in some wildlife; ducks, geese, eagles and herons frequent this little piece of paradise. Of course, a great spot to really do some serious birdwatching along the trail is the Blue Heron Nature Reserve, located near the Cattail marsh, as they’re decked out with viewing platforms and educational displays.
Watch the fishermen
On even the rainiest of days, you’re sure to come across a few fishermen and women along the river. If you wait long enough you might even see them reel in a salmon or trout! We should also mention, this is the perfect time to crack open one of our Head Shaker Honey Lagers 😉
Have a picnic
There’s never been a better time to support some of your favourite local spots! And what better way to experience Chilliwack then with a bounty of the Wack’s finest on your picnic blanket while soaking in some of Chilliwack’s best views? So grab some Old Yale beers, and check out some of our favourite local spots that are offering takeout like The Harvest Store & Cafe, The Local Harvest and Anita’s Bread & Coffee to get together the makings of a damn good spread. Beer fridge empty? Don’t worry - our tasting room may be closed, but we’re offering beer delivery through our online store and you can still find your favourite Old Yale brews at your local liquor stores!
The next time you’re in need of a little nature head to the Vedder River Rotary Trail, you won’t regret it, we promise. Cheers!