About Chilliwack and Area

The town of Chilliwack, only one hour east of Vancouver, is one of the largest communities in the Fraser Valley of British Columbia.

Named Chilliwack by the original First Nations settlers, the English translation is, "quieter water at the head", an ideal name considering the tribe's name of Sto:lo means People of the River.

In 1828 when the Hudson's Bay Company, founded Fort Langley, the Sto:lo people contributed a lot to the fur trade economy of the area and also supplied fish and labour to a salmon saltery, also owned by the company.

Chilliwack has now grown into a thriving agricultural community and is known for its slow pace, and friendly people who make visitors feel very welcome.

The history buff will be happy in Chilliwack with its vintage homes in the quiet historic downtown Chilliwack.
There are also some history tours available, including a visit to a working blacksmith shop and local artifacts used in early years. A visit to the Sto:lo Longhouse will allow you to enjoy demonstrations of fishing, weaving, carving and much more.

Close by Cultus Lake is a great destination for family fun, and Greenhill Acres farm overlooking the Lake has a petting zoo, picnic tables and a great selection of honey, jams, jellies and homestyle preserves.

Another area attraction is the beautiful Minter Gardens, featuring 11 beautiful theme gardens connected by wheelchair-friendly pathways. Also close by is the town of Bridal Falls, home to Canada's sixth largest waterfall, only a 15 minute walk along a well marked trail. Guided hikes are also available in the area so stop at the Visitor's Information Centre for more detailed information.
Also close to Chilliwack is a waterslide park with 10 great slides, miniature golf, a giant hot pool, volleyball, and children's playground and a space-age video arcade.

Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park is a great place to go if you enjoy birding, and Elk Mountain has great trails up the 15,00 metre mountain where you can see birds found only at such elevations.

Chilliwack and surrounding areas also have some terrific golf courses, and if you like adventure, you can find some of BC's best whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Chilliwack River. Five local rivers in the Fraser Valley also have year-round fishing including giant sturgeon, Chinook, and sockeye that return to the Fraser River each year.
Cycling the Kettle Valley Railway is also a popular activity close to Chilliwack and you can experience the history of the area, as you view ruins of the gold rush town of Granite city or a 9,000 year old archaeology site of the Sto:lo nation.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort is within easy driving distance from Chilliwack as well as many other places to explore.

Why Choose Chilliwack Vacation Rentals?

If you long for peace and quiet away from the stress and traffic that city life offers, you may want to consider vacationing in the Chilliwack area of the Fraser Valley of British Columbia. Here you will find country vacation homes, bed and breakfast inns, and many other vacation rentals that you can book directly from an owner.  Whether you are looking for a quiet retreat, or a family vacation home close to historic sites, hiking, water sports and adventure, consider renting from an owner in and around Chilliwack for a more affordable and memorable vacation in your home away from home!