Chilliwack Lake South Beach

A trail along the south side of Chilliwack Lake leads to a beach area and the point where the Chilliwack River drains into the lake. The south end of the lake is generally more peaceful than the busy north side and the sandy beach area provides a great spot to enjoy, with scenic views of Mount Lindeman and MacDonald Peak.

The trail begins from the gated forestry service road where it immediately crosses a bridge over Depot Creek. The trail follows an old logging road and is an easy grade for the entire route. Just 10 minutes into your walk, the first beach access is on the right where a very steep trail leads down to the water’s edge. While this is a nice beach, it’s worth continuing to the south beach area.

Follow the trail as it passes a large rock and continues along a narrower section, slightly descending as you make your way down to the lake. As the trail levels, you reach a sign that says “no campfires” and to the right, you can walk onto the south beach of Chilliwack Lake. From this beach, there are views of MacDonald Peak ahead and Mount Lindeman to the left.

Return to the trail and step over a large log, continuing to follow the trail through an overgrown section of bush. After a few minutes, you reach a sign marking the Chilliwack River Ecological Reserve, a protected area along the Chilliwack River flood plain. Continue walking straight along the trail to the end where you suddenly emerge from the bushes at the calm Chilliwack River. A short distance back from the end point, there is a small beach along the river at the side of the trail, hidden by bushes, where a peaceful sandy beach is located with access to the river and some incredible views.

Note: There is a trail called the Chilliwack River Trail that begins from the Chilliwack River Ecological Reserve sign and heads south to the US border. Under no circumstances should you cross the International Border with the United States. Despite its remoteness, the border is monitored and the penalties when you cross the border that is NOT at an official port of entry are steep. As of 2026, the Chilliwack River Trail has lots of deadfall and has become overgrown in sections due to the lack of ongoing trail maintenance.

Whether you plan to spend some time along the beach near the Chilliwack River of on the south end of Chilliwack Lake, enjoy the peacefulness before heading back. Follow the trail away from the beach as it gently inclines, passing the large rock before returning to the bridge near where you started.