The Fraser Valley is one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. I know, I know – you may think this is a bit biased coming from someone who has called this place home for so many years. But having traveled far and wide, I can tell you without a doubt that the scenery across the valley is second to none.
Thankfully, you don’t just have to read about Fraser Valley’s beauty – it’s easy to get out there and see if for yourself! One of the best ways to explore this great area of the country is by horse.
If you’re looking for some quality time with two and four-legged friends and family, and want to explore Fraser Valley for yourself, we’ve got just the list for you. Below we’ve outlined our Top 10 Favourite Trail Rides in Fraser Valley. So pick a route and get riding!
#1 Campbell Valley Regional Park
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 14 km
Ride Time: 2 Hours
Main Entrance: 208th St. South of 16th Avenue.
Description: This wonderful park is made up of 6 historic farm plots, and now houses a variety of walking, biking, and equestrian trails. There are plentiful facilities and parking for equestrian trailers as well – the perfect afternoon ride!
#2 Cultus Lake Trail
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 20 km
Ride Time: 3-4 Hours
Main Entrance: Watt Creek Horse Parking Lot
Description: This well maintained, compact gravel and shale horse trail is the perfect place for a long afternoon ride. The trail is of moderate difficulty, and covers some absolutely beautiful terrain.
#3 Derby Reach Regional Park
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 4 km
Ride Time: 1 Hour
Main Entrance: Houston Trail Entrance on McKinnon
Description: This short, easy trail is located right on the Fraser River, and is perfect for any level of rider. Situated on the original townsite of Fort Langley, the oldest continuously settled European community in British Columbia, the trail is protected by tall black cottonwoods. If you look closely at these trees, you’re likely to see several blue heron nests!
#4 Inkawthia Lake
Type: Back Country Trail
Length: 24 km
Ride Time: 12 Hours
Main Entrance: Albert Street Just North of Downtown Yale
Description: This is a long trail of old road that climbs 3600 feet from start to finish. If you plan to do the whole out and back in one day, be sure to bring feed and a fit horse with good shoes, as it’s quite the trek. However there is nothing wrong with going out a few km and turning around and heading back early – it still makes for a wonderful ride!
#5 MacDonald Park
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: Varies
Ride Time: Varies
Main Entrance: #3 Road Exit (Cultus Lake) Off Hwy #1
Description: With multiple trails filled with wide, easy paths, this is a great place for a day ride with friends. And with amenities such as covered picnic areas, washrooms, and plentiful parking, plus lots of different birds and other wildlife, there is no shortage of things to do while out at the park!
#6 Pacific Crest Trail
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: Varies
Ride Time: Varies
Main Entrance: Manning Park, Connecting with the Windy Joe Trail
Description: The pinnacle of North American trails, the Pacific Crest Trail travels all the way from Mexico to Canada, ending in Manning Park. Unfortunately, travel southbound into the United States from Canada is illegal (trail riders can only go North), but the final stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail is worth exploring as a day ride in and of itself. Plus Manning Park offers several other wonderful trails, such as the Windy Joe.
#7 Palmers Pond
Type: Back Country Trail
Length: 5 km
Ride Time: 1.5 Hours
Main Entrance: Jacobsen Lake Campsite
Description: The gorgeous trail can be taken either East or West. East takes you down along Podunk Creek, while West climbs up past Palmer’s Pond to Camp du Chevreuil and then down to the Sowaqua creek drainage. Either way a great ride!
#8 South Langley Regional Trail
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 11 km
Ride Time: 2 Hours
Main Entrance: 224th St. Just North of 4th Ave.
Description: Located within the Agricultural Land Reserve, this easy-riding trail offers lots of great sights along the way, including wildlife, livestock, and various tress and plants. Perfect for riders of any ability.
#9 Vedder Mountain Trails
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: Varies
Ride Time: Varies
Main Entrance: Tolmie Rd. Just South of Campbell Rd.
Description: A staple of recreation in Fraser Valley for decades, Vedder Mountain has a variety of multi-use trails available for riders. Just be sure to keep an eye out for bikers!
#10 Aldergrove Lake Park
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 7 km
Ride Time: 1.5 Hours
Main Entrance: 272nd Street South of 8th Ave.
Description: Located right alongside the U.S. border, this easy-riding park is perfect for a quick trail journey with your 4-legged friend. With seasonal concessions, dog parks, picnic areas and washrooms, there is plenty to love about this smaller wooded getaway.
BONUS! Vancouver, and Delta Trails!
#11 Pacific Spirit Park
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 38 km
Ride Time: Varies
Main Entrance: 5495 Chancellor Blvd.
Description: This scenic, waterside park features breathtaking views and plenty
of wonderful trail riding. And with its off-leash dog park, swimming,
picnic areas and more, this is the perfect place to spend some time
with your favourite loved ones, both human and otherwise.
#12 Delta Watershed
Type: Day Ride Trail
Length: 11 km
Ride Time: 2 Hours
Main Entrance: 11600 Kittson Parkway, North Delta
Description: This easy day ride at Delta Watershed is perfect for riders of all
ages and abilities. With plenty of scenic overlooks, as well as a
beautiful picnic area that offers a stunning view of Mud Bay, this
park will gift you a full day of riding that you won’t soon forget.
As you can see, no matter your experience level, location, or style of riding, there is no shortage of wonderful trails in Fraser Valley to enjoy. Quite honestly, the hardest part about riding here is deciding which trail I am going to enjoy next!
Have questions about where you and your equine friends should go? Feel free to reach out…I am always happy to share some of my favourites!
BONUS! Here’s a link to the best trails in Maple Ridge!
As you can see, no matter your experience level, location, or style of riding, there is no shortage of wonderful trails in Fraser Valley to enjoy. Quite honestly, the hardest part about riding here is deciding which trail I am going to enjoy next!
Have questions about where you and your equine friends should go? Feel free to reach out…I am always happy to share some of my favourites!