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| Trans Canada Trail marker points the way |
As we were unloading our bikes and getting ready to hit the trail, we were greeted in the parking lot by Kathy, an Urban Musher. Intrigued we delayed our start to chat with her. We learned all about this dry land, dog-powered sport called Urban Mushing. Her dogs were more than happy to give us a demo and before we knew it they were harnessed up and ready to pull. Kathy and her team were busy training for the upcoming Iron Paws event. I must confess, Iron Paws brought a smile to my face. As we bid farewell, it struck me yet again that there are countless ways for people and pets to get outside and play!
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| Urban Musher and her dog team |
We planned our route for the day to take us along the dyke trails on the both the north and south side of the Vedder river and Vedder canal. This loop was scenic, flat and fascinating!
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| View of the Vedder Canal |
We departed the parking lot and as we pedaled we could hear distant rumblings. At first we thought there must be blasting going on in the area but soon we discovered we were nearing the Abbotsford Fish and Game Club. Judging by the noise, it was clearly a busy day on the range!
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| Dark Sky Park courtesy of the Fraser Valley Astronomers Society |
After cycling past McDonald park, we passed by an Astronomy Viewing Area, and joked about the "mini Stonehenge" in the background. We later discovered that McDonald Park is officially designated a dark sky park with the hopes of offering views of the Night sky, minus light pollution, for many years to come. The Fraser Valley Astronomers Society host educational programs and events at the park throughout the year.
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| Vedder South Dyke Trail marker |
The trail was very well marked, easy to follow and yes - FLAT!
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| Heavily treed area of the trail |
Although the trail was on a dyke and flat, we were pleasantly surprised by the variety. From open farmland to tight, twisting turns through forested areas, the trail was an interesting ride....and did I mention FLAT?
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| Snow capped mountains and cherry blossoms mark an early spring |
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| River view |
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| Scenic viewpoint along the dyke trail |
It was quite a busy day on both the trail and on the river. At every turn we stumbled upon another fisher in search of Steelhead trout.
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| The Steelhead seem to be facing big odds |
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| Log Jams - Paddlers beware! |
During a quick lunch break we had the pleasure of meeting Dave. Clearly, Dave had spent many an hour on the river. He shared stories of his big catches and of course the one that got away. He did manage to catch a record breaking 41 pound Steelhead earlier this year and delighted us with pictures of the catch. He recommended Steelybeads as the bait of choice and Fishbum as the apparel of choice. I am embarrassed to say that at times we had no idea what he was talking about, but he spoke with unbridled passion and enthusiasm so we listened intently! Maybe, it is time for us to take some of Dave's advice and explore fishing by kayak?
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| Hmmm.....should kayak fishing be next? |
Giggle of the day:
As we made our way along the south dyke trail we stumbled upon a retired gentleman out fishing for the day. He was the picture of happiness....deep laugh lines marked his weather beaten face. We chatted for a while about the trail and the river and then the conversation turned to fishing. He was out looking for Steelhead and to quote, "the fish taste like $@%# this time of year, but my wife doesn't nag me or give me jobs when I am out fishing. And best of all if I catch something, I don't have to pay for dinner!"
Maps and Route Tips:
The trail for the most part is hard packed gravel, best suited for touring or mountain bikes.
Great ride for families, especially along the Rotary Trail in Chilliwack which features a virtual tour. (another example of technology in the outdoors)
Be sure to check out the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve
Parks and Trails in Chilliwack
Trans Canada Trail
Fishing the Vedder River
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