Nielsen Regional Park

Nielsen Regional Park in Mission is a short, easy wander that can be as tame or as wild as you make it. The official trail is a 1.3 km out-and-back with only 29 m of elevation gain, usually wrapped up in about 20 minutes, but recent hikers have turned it into a full-on mud adventure after heavy rain.

The walk itself is low and close to the water, topping out around 42 m, so you’re not here for big climbs, you’re here for a relaxed forest stroll and river vibes. Some people follow faint side paths beyond what the map shows, bushwhacking to the river and then walking upstream to reconnect with other paths and the open area near the bridge, which can be fun if you’re comfortable getting off the groomed route.

Current conditions at Nielsen Regional Park can swing fast with the weather. After waves of rain, the “very easy” trail can turn into ankle-deep mud and standing water, with slippery sections that will wreck your clothes and have your dog in heaven. On dry days it’s a quick, mellow outing, but in wet weather expect flooded sections, unmanicured side trails, and bring waterproof boots, a change of clothes, and a headlamp if you’re anywhere near dusk.