Taggart Peak, Sumas Mountain, and Chadsey Lake Loop

The Taggart Peak, Sumas Mountain, and Chadsey Lake Loop in Abbotsford is a serious grind, not a casual stroll. At 15.6 km with about 859 m of gain and a high point around 909 m, it’s a solid full-day outing that usually takes around 5 hours and 45 minutes for fit hikers. The payoff is big summit views over the Fraser Valley on clear days, but you earn every metre.

The loop winds through classic Sumas Mountain forest, with long stretches of steep climbing and descending, creek crossings on sturdy bridges, and a nice break at Chadsey Lake. Taggart Peak and the Sumas Mountain high points can give some of the best views in the valley when the clouds lift, but on foggy days you’ll be in the trees with limited scenery. Going counterclockwise is popular for a more manageable flow and to hit the viewpoints later in the day.

Current reports are blunt: this is shared heavily with mountain bikers, and some sections are steep bike lines with almost nowhere to step aside, so hiking here on a busy sunny weekend can feel sketchy. Navigation is confusing in spots with poor signage, random flagging, and multiple forks, so download a GPS track and pay attention, especially around the lake, where the side shown on some maps is rough and unpleasant; locals recommend the opposite shore. Expect mud, fog, and low visibility in shoulder seasons, carry bear spray as black bears are common, and aim for April through early summer or stable fall weather for the best mix of conditions and views.