Welcome back to another Trail to Blaze… this one is known for it’s breathtaking views of Chilliwack, Cultus Lake, and the beautiful Fraser Valley region. Whether your heading out on a warm spring day, braving the summer time heat, or snowshoeing through the crisp winter months, you can admire the beauty of this hike all year-round!
Here’s everything you need to know…
HIKING STATS
Difficulty: Intermediate
Time: 4 hours
Round-Trip: 8.2 km
Elevation Gain: 800 meters
Season: Year’ round
Dog Friendly: Yes (on-leash)
GETTING THERE
The Elk Mountain Trail is located just outside of Chilliwack, BC. If you are coming from Highway #1 eastbound, you’ll want to take Exit #123, Prest Road. Drive south and when you hit to the second roundabout, turn left onto Bailey Road. The road will split after about 1 km, just keep right and the road will head up hill along Elk View Road. Keep crusin’ up the road until you are at your hiking destination!!! Keep your eyes peeled for a clearing on the left hand side of the road and that is where you’ll park!
Access the trail at the far end, OH AND incase you forgot to GO before you left home….there is an outhouse at the beginning of the trail! Time to get your sweat on! Make sure you have lots of water since there isn’t any creeks on your way up!
THE TRAIL
This is a popular and well maintained out-back trail. It quickly begins with a nice steady incline up the mountain and into the beautiful lush forested area. After roughly 1.5 hours, the first viewpoint that overlooks Chilliwack lake and The Chilliwack Region is finally in your sights. The best part of every hike is the view, are we right?!?! This is your chance to take a much deserving break, munch on a yummy snack, hydrate, and enjoy the scenery before you make that uphill grind to the peak!
The last part of this trek is quite steep, so make sure to take your time and hike with care on your journey to the top. As you approach the peak, you’ll be amazed with the gorgeous views of the Border Peaks and the beautiful Fraser Valley! YOU MADE IT! Now is your chance to kick back & let the beauty of your surroundings soak in.
CELEBRATION BEERS
Craft beer & adventure, those are two of our favourite things at Old Yale Brewing, and there is nothing quite like sipping on a fresh brew while taking in the views of The West Coast! What better beer to pair with this adventure than our West Coast IPA? After all, we are soaking up all the West Coast vibes for this hike!
