Hiking Mount Cheam

A proper off-roading adventure!

There are so many incredible hiking spots in British Columbia, and specifically in the Fraser Valley where my family and I live. Some are totally suited to small children and easy to get to. Others are admittedly less accessible and much harder to hike. 

Traveling to Mount Cheam by Vehicle

This post is about one in the latter category. To get to the Mount Cheam Trailhead, you need a capable 4 wheel drive vehicle that won’t bottom out. Part of the adventure is without a doubt the drive up the Forest Service Road. It takes approximately 50 minutes and the entire time you are on a steep incline and going through potholes, narrow passageways and whatever other obstacle nature decides to throw your way that day.

The Hike up Mount Cheam

Once you park, the entire hike from beginning back to your car takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours depending on your fitness level. It took me about an hour and 45 minutes to go up to the peak and then a little less than that to go down. You’ll want to plan for at least a 15 minute break at top for snacks and photos. The view is UNREAL. You get a 360 degree view of Chilliwack and its surrounding areas along the Fraser River, Jones Lake, Mount Baker, and a bunch more peaks. It is truly breathtaking.

A “Swiss Alps Experience” but in the Fraser Valley, BC

If I had to sum up this hike and its surroundings, it would be the Swiss Alps! That’s right - you are in British Columbia, Canada but I would argue it has the overall aesthetic of being in Switzerland. The first part is relatively flat with rolling hills, pretty flowers and the peaks in the distance. As you progress through the hike, it becomes steeper and steeper and the peaks become your terrain. 

We went at the beginning of October and the weather was perfect for a hike. I wore bike shorts and a tank for the majority of the hike, and popped on a light pullover at the very top. It is recommended you go July to October.

It is a truly beautiful setting, and I one hundred percent recommend - if you can get there!