Wild Hazel Loop

Wild Hazel Loop in Chilliwack sits just above Cultus Lake and makes a great quick escape when you only have an hour to spare. This 1.6 km loop has about 59 m of gain, tops out around 175 m, and usually takes under half an hour, but you’ll want to slow down and enjoy the forest. It’s rated easy, so it’s a solid option for newer hikers, families, or a warm-up before hitting bigger Chilliwack trails.

The trail winds through lush undergrowth with a soft, forested feel most of the way. As you climb, gaps in the trees give you a look over Cultus Lake and a nice view of Amadis at the top, which is the main payoff for such a short loop. In spring, the ground cover really stands out, with vanilla leaf, trailing blackberries, and thimbleberries in flower adding some color along the way.

Right now, reports mention blooming plants and clear views, so Wild Hazel Loop is in good shape for a quick walk. Expect some roots and the usual BC forest mud after rain, but nothing technical, and runners often use it as a short loop. Dogs are allowed on leash, and this trail works almost year-round, though winter can bring slick sections, so small spikes might help if it’s icy.