Abbotsford is located in British Columbia’s Fraser Valley, close to Greater Vancouver and the United States. In Abbotsford, big things are occurring. It is the province of British Columbia’s largest city that is not part of the Metro Vancouver area. It is the province’s largest city in terms of physical area. If you’re ready to make a huge splash in Abbotsford, we’ve got plenty of opportunities for you. It has major city attractions such as a university, an international airport, a sports team, and excellent shopping. It also has fertile farmland for growing berries and producing delectable dairy products.
Several local farms have devised hands-on programmes that allow visitors to learn about milk production technologies and get lost in a field of sunflowers, among other things. After a day of studying, doing, buying, and travelling, it’s sometimes preferable to unwind outside. There are lots of possibilities for that in Abbotsford, whether it’s a tranquil stroll around Mill Lake Park or a hike up Sumas Mountain. Continue reading to find out all you need to know about Abbotsford’s best attractions and things to do.
Now Coming to Best Things to do & Places to visit in Abbotsford
1. Hike Sumas Mountain
The Sumas Mountain Trail ascends Sumas Mountain near Abbotsford, reaching more than 700 metres in height over 6.5 kilometres (each way). The trail will take you through the woods, across ravines, over a bridge, through creeks, and along Chadsey Lake before ending at the mountain top. As long as you’re prepared, you can trek in almost any weather. On a clear day, the vistas from the summit overlook the Fraser Valley below; nevertheless, bring sunblock because not all of the path is shaded. On a rainy day, the path will be muddy, and the vistas may be obscured by fog and clouds, but with the right clothing, being outside and getting wet can still be enjoyable.
Summer is the most popular time to trek Sumas Mountain. Bring insect spray since mosquitoes may be persistent. If you’re hiking between late fall and early spring, be prepared for portions of the path to be covered with snow. Hike along the route to discover the mountains while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Because there is no camping along the trail, make a day of it. The route is narrow in places and passes through a woodland and ravine, while others are gravelly. It’s well signposted the entire route, so there’s no risk of getting lost.
2. Try skydiving
Abbotsford is ideally nestled between beautiful mountain ranges on the vast plain of the Lower Fraser Valley, and is bordered on the north by the Fraser River. Skydiving is a sport, not a pastime. It is one of the most exhilarating and exciting sports available. The surge of excitement and thrill experienced during a skydiving freefall is something that cannot be described in words. It’s something that should be investigated and felt. And, because Vancouver is so lovely from the ground, picture an overhead perspective of the city. There’s a good possibility you’ll fall in love with it.
Don’t get too eager if you’re going skydiving for the first time. Allow yourself some time to prepare before the event. Mentally prepare yourself that there is nothing to be afraid about. Because if you’re a first-timer, you’re more likely to choose for tandem skydiving, which involves a guide jumping with you and controlling everything. Abbotsford is a privately owned airpark that is mostly used for skydiving. It’s a functioning building from the 1950s that serves as North America’s first skydiving location, with world-class amenities for the public. You’ll be treated to a stunning view of parks, forests, the ocean, and the city.
3. See the city from the sky
Of course, you don’t have to jump out of an aircraft to see Abbotsford from the sky. From the Abbotsford International Airport, scenic aircraft and helicopter excursions are available, ranging in length from 12 minutes to two hours. You may tailor your journey to your own interests, but some of the most popular destinations are Harrison Lake, Golden Ears Provincial Park, and Mount Cheam. Longer flights might take you above and beyond Vancouver. A helicopter trip can be combined with another wilderness activity; your rented aircraft can transport you to distant kayaking, camping, fishing, snowshoeing, and skiing locations.
With stunning vistas along the route, you’ll have quick access to some of the province’s most picturesque places. Whatever route and activity you choose, an aerial tour is a unique way to appreciate the Fraser Valley’s natural splendour. This is a journey where you’ll definitely want to bring your camera.
4. Enjoy at Mill Lake Park
Mill Lake Park encompasses Mill Lake and provides a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. A 2.1-kilometer route arcs around the lake and is ideal for walking, running, or cycling. The path is largely level and paved, making it suitable for families and wheelchair users. There is a nice boardwalk that runs alongside the river. On clear days, you may see Mt. Baker in the distance from this location. Canoeing and fishing are both permitted on the lake’s separate dock. Dogs on a leash are also welcome. Picnic spaces, numerous playgrounds, baseball pitches, a water spray park, and an outdoor swimming pool are among the other attractions of Mill Lake Park. Cherry blossoms and flowers bloom in the spring.
Autumn is known for its stunning fall colours. During both those seasons of the year, the park provides for an excellent visit. Mill Lake is a lovely place to wander about. It’s one of the best urban parks and natural areas in the Lower Mainland. Mill Lake Park is a popular hangout for locals. This park, which is centred on the beautiful Mill Lake, has a lot to offer. Mill Lake Park also has picnic spots, a labyrinth garden, and plenty of seats and green space where you can relax and take in the scenery. On a bright day or to see the sunset, it’s a lovely spot to visit.
5. Tackle Discovery Trail
Discovery Trail is a 12.4-kilometer circle trail with a lake near Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada. It is suitable for hikers of all abilities. Hiking, strolling, road riding, and mountain biking are the most popular activities on the path. The Discovery Trail is a popular path for visitors to Abbotsford to explore the sites. Biking, hiking, running, picnics, birding, horseback riding, and rollerblading are all popular activities along the trail. Because the trail is paved for the most part, it has parts that are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. There are several access locations to the Discovery Trail. Parks and side streets provide access to the trail.
The Discovery Trail is generally level and excellent for a picturesque bike ride, consisting of a mix of paved paths, bike lanes, and the occasional segment along a country road. The beautiful autumn foliage and distant views of Mount Baker will create a lasting impact on a cool fall day. You don’t have a bicycle? No problem; you may walk shorter parts of the Discovery Trail and enjoy Abbotsford’s beautiful scenery.
6. Shop at Highstreet
Look no farther than Highstreet, Abbotsford’s most popular shopping location, if you’re looking for some retail therapy. This open-air mall is walkable and offers the ideal blend of big-name anchors and beloved mall stores, as well as restaurants and cafés to keep you fuelled as you shop. When the weather is fine, the outdoor mall is ideal for window shopping; however, if it’s pouring, you might want to go directly to the movie theatre. The play area, as well as the mall’s seasonal events and activities, such as photos with Santa and storey times and craft workshops, will appeal to children. Adults will like the plentiful free parking, which is always a bonus.
Spend the day shopping, dining, and watching the people go about their everyday lives at the market. Shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, art, and apparel as you stroll around the market. Finish the day with some delectable prepared fare. Our area activities and attractions provide entertainment for the entire family. Spend the day exploring and enjoying all of Abbotsford’s unique activities.
7. Check the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery
Vye Road in Abbotsford is home to the Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery. It is a member of the Freshwater Fisheries Society of British Columbia. Trout are a popular recreational fish in British Columbia, but few people understand that trout require some assistance to keep their population increasing. The Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery is here to help. The FVTH, which was founded in the fall of 1977, supplies roughly 150 lakes and streams with trout each year. Through self-guided tours of the facility, informational movies, and live displays that illustrate diverse freshwater habitats and species in B.C., the Visitor’s Centre is dedicated to educate our global citizens about trout conservation.
The Fraser Valley Trout Hatchery and Visitor Centre is relatively unknown. Most people would drive right by it if they saw it from the outside, but inside is a refurbished educational area where visitors can learn about British Columbia’s freshwater fish through tours and interactive exhibits. The centre focuses on fish health and research, with projects ranging from replenishing tiny lakes around the province to encouraging sport fishing. They include trips and programmes for both children and adults that explore the intricate world of freshwater fishing. It’s worth noting that excursions must be scheduled in advance; walk-ins are not permitted, so prepare ahead.
8. Go Golfing
Golf is growing in popularity as people seek new ways to enjoy the outdoors while remaining safe and socially isolated. Whether you’re new to golf or want to fine-tune your technique, Abbotsford has a course to suit your requirements and ability level. Ledgeview and Fraser Glen are two world-class golf courses in Abbotsford, as well as Valley Golf Centre, a lesser 9-hole course.
The greatest public golf course in Abbotsford, BC is Ledgeview Golf Club. It is an 18-hole golf course with a beautiful premium layout and the best greens and fairways in the area. The club provides a tough yet manageable course that is appreciated by both amateur and professional players. The Ledgeview Golf Club has beautiful views of the seaside mountains to the west and the seashore mountains to the north.
Fraserglen Golf Course is a premier 18-hole golf course in Abbotsford, British Columbia. It’s a mid-length that’s both enjoyable and demanding. The club offers an 18-hole golf course with a tree-lined fairway, as well as a 40-stall two-level driving range that is heated and illuminated for night practise.
Valley Golf Centre is a well built golf course in Abbotsford, British Columbia. It has a nine-hole golf course with four par fours and five par threes of different lengths where you may utilise almost every club in your bag, including the big stick. There are 13 covered, heated, and illuminated booths on the driving range, as well as 27 outdoor stalls. Families, beginners, and seasoned golfers all love the course at Valley Golf Centre.
9. Explore Reach Gallery Museum
In the Fraser Valley, the Reach Gallery Museum is the epicentre of cultural and artistic innovation. The Reach, which hosts a year-round calendar of art and history exhibitions, tells the tales of our rich and diverse cultural past while also showcasing the greatest in visual art from both inside and outside our community. The Reach has a long tradition of award-winning exhibitions and events, as well as a strong reputation for connecting art, history, and community in meaningful ways. The Reach is a centre for local history studies and also houses the area archive repository.
There is always something new to see and do at The Reach, with three distinct seasons of exhibitions presented each year and hundreds of public and educational events to select from. The Reach is a gathering space that promotes intercultural and intergenerational encounters in a respectful and understanding setting. The 20,000-square-foot building debuted in September 2008 and has already established itself as the Fraser Valley’s centre for curatorial excellence and engaging public events.
10. Golden Ears Provincial Park
Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of the largest parks in British Columbia, and one of the most stunning in Metro Vancouver, with approximately 62,000 hectares. Golden Ears was called for the twin peaks that gleam like gold in the sunset light near the park’s western edge. A number of lakes dot the area, and fishing may be excellent. Alouette Lake, which was once primarily used for fishing and hunting, is now home to a diverse recreational complex that includes water sports, horseback riding, hiking trails, and a tourist services programme. Picnic places that are beautiful.
Over 400 campsites are available for campers at Golden Ears Provincial Park’s three main campgrounds: Alouette Lake, Gold Creek, and North Beach. Each campsite has its own set of amenities, although all three offer pit toilets at the very least. Unlike North Beach, Alouette and Gold Creek campsites provide flushable toilets and hot showers during the camping season. At each of the three major campsites, there are specific metal rings for campfires. In the rest of Golden Ears Park, campfires are forbidden. Most of the park’s areas of interest include water taps.
We’re confident you’ll find one to add to your list among the top ten thing to do & places to visit in Abbotsford on our list. What is your go-to in Abbotsford? Let us know in the comments section.
