6 Hidden Gems Near Vancouver

Looking for a fresh adventure?  A new zone to explore?  It’s time to checkout the Fraser Canyon.  Unlimited hikes, lakes, waterfalls, beaches and adventures.  You just need to know where to look.  Here’s a list of a few off the beaten path areas to checkout.

Mt. Lincoln Trail

Round Trip 5km/3.5 hrs. A steep hike over rocky bluffs with extremely rewarding views of the Fraser Canyon.  Mt. Lincoln (or as the locals say LINKY) is located at the North end of the town of Yale.  Drive North thru town, passed the Esso Gas station.  You will cross a small bridge over Yale Creek and immediately see a large gravel pull out on your right.  Park at the North end of the pull out and carefully walk across HWY 1 where you will see the ‘Mt. Lincoln’ trailhead sign.

Yale Beach

Located in Yale, BC, just under 2 hours from Vancouver.  Yale Beach on the Fraser River offers a sweet spot to relax in the sun and swim in the healing waters of the mighty Fraser River while taking in the magical mountain views surrounding you.  If you’re in need of an activity, try your hand at gold panning or cast out and  catch a famous Fraser River sturgeon.  Lower water season is the best time to go (August-April) as a massive sandy beach is exposed.  Drive into the town of Yale, just North of Barry’s Trading Post, take a right at the only set of lights in Yale.  Drive down across the tracks all the way to the bottom and hang a left.  Drive down the Road 100 m and park on the right hand side. 

Lady Franklin Rock Look-Out

Located in Yale, BC Lady Franklin is a great spot to stop and checkout as a pit stop, or if you’re looking for some rejuvenating time sitting next to the raging Fraser Canyon.  One of the most photogenic and easily accessible spots on the whole river, you can drive right to it. Head North thru town, past the Esso Gas station.  You will cross a small bridge over Yale Creek and immediately see a large gravel pull out on your right.  Pull off here and carefully drive across the railroad tracks.  Follow this road to the end where you will find another big pull-out and Lady Franklin Rock staring you right in the face.

Spirit Caves Trail

Round Trip 5km/3 hrs.  This rewarding trail has steep switchbacks to a beautiful view of Yale and the Fraser River.  At the top, the caves can be accessed but are hidden by large rocks.  1km before the town of Yale you will see the historic Pioneer Cemetery.  Park here and carefully cross the HWY where you will find the trail head sign.

Sunset at the top of Mt Hope. #artofliving #embracehopebc

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Mount Hope Summit Trail

Round Trip 8km/6hrs.  Mount Hope is the iconic granite giant that towers over the town of Hope, and yes you can hike to the very top (and you get to drive most of the way up!).  Offering arguably the best views in the valley, the peak of Mount Hope gives a full 360 perspective of the river valley and mountains surrounding it.  Drive 7km East of Hope on HWY 3, turn right onto Hope Mountain Forest Service Rd.  The road requires 4-wheel drive and decent vehicle clearance.  Drive another 8km to the trailhead, which is marked by a sign and parking lot.

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Silver Lake

Wanna swim in the mountains?  Head to Silver Lake at the foot of Hope Mountain and Wells Peak and cool down in the clear mountain lake.  The park is located 12 km southwest of Hope in the beautiful Skagit Valley. From the south: from Highway #1 watch for Silver/Skagit Provincial Park signs approaching Flood-Hope Road  (Exit #168). Follow the blue park signs, turn right onto Flood-Hope Road, travel approximately 1 km to turn right on Silver Skagit Road. From the north: take either Exit #170 or #168 to Flood-Hope Road, and follow the signs to Silver Skagit Road. Travel this scenic route along the valley bottom, the first 2 km on pavement, the remainder on gravel.  At 6 km watch for the park signs at a bridge on your right. Turn right and go over the bridge. It is 1 km in to the park.

Rafting the Fraser Canyon

The Fraser River is one of the largest commercially rafted rivers in the WORLD.  And here it is.  Fraser River Raft Expeditions runs tours down the most wild and spectacular section between Boston Bar and Yale, BC.  Huge whitewater, relaxing flats, unbelievable history and a delicious lunch included.  You can see why this could be the best trip you take this summer.  You can also save 20% off when you book online now!  Use promo code FRASERVIP2018 at checkout.  Learn More Here.