The laid-back town of Hope is a great base for discovering the Fraser Valley, a lush slice of British Columbia known for its local farms, chic wineries and scenic golf courses. You can explore abandoned railway tunnels, soak in thermal hot springs and admire one of Canada's most impressive collections of wood chainsaw carvings.
Things to do in Hope
As you stroll around Hope you'll notice dozens of chainsaw carvings. The town is known as the “Chainsaw Carving Capital of Canada”, with many local artists inspired by majestic Canadian wildlife, such as bears, eagles and orcas. Pick up a map from the Visitors Centre and enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the art.
Just out of town, the Othello Tunnels offer a glimpse at British Columbia's railway roots. They were built in the early-1900s and wind through a granite mountain in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. A 3.5-kilometre loop trail makes it easy to explore the tunnels on foot.
The Fraser Valley is dotted with over 40 boutique wineries producing top-notch Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Siegerrebe, a unique German varietal. Don't miss Kermode Wild Berry Wines, where you can sip on fermented wine crafted from local British Columbian berries.
Enjoy a soak in Harrison Hot Springs, where thermal pools have been luring visitors since the 1800s. Choose from five mineral-rich pools or indulge in a treatment at the luxurious day spa. Thrill seekers can sign up for white-water rafting tours on the mighty Fraser River.
Getting around Hope
Downtown Hope is easy to get around on foot, while rental cars are best for exploring the Fraser Valley independently. Hope is a two-hour drive from downtown Vancouver. Hope Station is in the downtown core and is serviced by regular Via Rail trains.