Fraser Valley
Overview
Eastern neighbours of the Greater Vancouver Region, and readily connected by the TransCanada Highway as well as transit (via transfer from BC Transit to TransLink). The Fraser Valley is anchored by its largest city, Abbotsford, which comprises a mix of urban core amenities, suburban living, and vast farmland. Abbotsford and Chilliwack are known for a long tradition of farming, and provides a wide selection of produce, dairy, and meats to grocery chains across the province – Chilliwack corn is a BC favourite.
Did You Know?
The locally famous “Chilliwack Corn” isn’t a specific corn type – it just refers to all corn grown in Chilliwack, BC (and readily available at roadside stands).
Climate / Landscape
The Fraser Valley is located in the southwest of the province, with the city of Langley to the immediate west, and the US (Washington State) to the south.
The Fraser Valley enjoys more seasonal weather changes than Vancouver, with more snow in winter and warmer temperatures in summer. The climate is still moderate compared to eastern and northern areas of the province.
Farmland is plentiful in the valley, along with lakes and rivers, forest, fields and mountainous terrain.
Amenities
The cities of Abbotsford and Chilliwack are the area’s largest urban areas, and offer multiple venues for hockey, lacrosse, and other arena-type sports.
The Fraser Valley has a thriving arts and culture community, offering concerts, music festivals, open air markets and many annual events.
The area’s many lakes and waterfront, boat-access inlets are a draw for tourists looking for cabin adventures and fishing expeditions.
Infrastructure
The local regional health authority operates Abbotsford Regional Hospital, Chilliwack General Hospital, Mission General Hospital, and Fraser Canyon Hospital.
Post Secondary Institutions include University of the Fraser Valley, with campuses in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, and Mission.
The Abbotsford International Airport connects travellers to national and international flights.
