There is deep symbolism in a place where three major highways meet as well as the mighty Fraser and Coquihalla rivers. Hope, British Columbia is known as a top wedding destination, fertile salmon spawning site, historic trading route and so much more. From sidewalks lined with chainsaw carvings to antique cars bumbling down narrow streets, Hope’s culture surprises those who wander through the small Fraser Canyon town.
Where to stay
Heritage Inn is an AAA-rated accommodation equipped with the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence. The Inn sits just off Old Princeton-Hope Highway and is conveniently within walking distance to everything you could need: grocery stores, home-cooked meals, delicious sushi and more. Arriving to reception, we were graciously greeted by Front-desk Assistant, Liz, who provided us with a treasure chest of activity ideas and local history after we noticed a group of guests dressed in antique garb.
Manager, Young Kim, has been running Heritage Inn for over two years and prides himself on giving guests the real Hope experience. Our room was comfortable and elegantly furnished with a wide-screen cable TV, Queen-sized bed, sofa, mini-fridge, coffee-maker and air conditioner. Upon arrival, we immediately fell into a mid-afternoon nap; Heritage Inn was like a home away from home and the whole process from check-in to check-out was a breeze.
If you find yourself planning a trip through the Fraser Canyon and Hope BC, you can easily make a booking at Heritage Inn through their new online reservation system. From the Inn, it’s just a 45-minute drive to Manning Park for world-class skiing. During the Summer, a 30-minute drive on Highway 1 West will take you to Jones Lake for an afternoon of picnicking and sun-bathing.
What to do
There is a multitude of activities to choose from on a visit to Hope, whether it be a day trip or multi-day vacation, Summer or Winter.
Manning Park: A provincial park with a beautiful resort and ski center at its core boasting hotel buildings, restaurants, cabins, chalets, as well as campgrounds. Tourists come through here in Summer for the hiking and Winter for the snow sports. Several major rivers originate in the park and spread through other areas of the province.
Othello Tunnels: Another remarkable provincial park, also known as Coquihalla Canyon Park; located on the canyon of the Coquihalla River and originally part of the railway grade. This transformed walking trail will take you to the Coquihalla Pass where you’ll look over hundreds of feet of jagged rocks ending in a thunderous roar of rapids.
Chasing Rambo Tour: Did you know Hope was the site for the filming of Rambo: First Blood? Take a self-guided walking tour through the town and re-live the action!
HBC Heritage Trail: Originally a First Nations route for hunting and trade, the HBC Trail played a key role in British Columbia’s early development. Take a peak into history and learn about the province’s early days of European settlement.
Other points of interest:
Hope Mountain Bike Park and trails
Where to eat
One of the best in “Mom’s cooking” style restaurants; bring a healthy appetite and you can’t go wrong! Portions are quite large, but one bite of the 7oz. Mushroom Swiss Burger and you won’t want to leave a morsel behind. Save room for dessert! Home is known far and wide for its hand-made pies and desserts!
You might not think an inland BC town would offer fresh sushi, but Hope is surprisingly diverse. There are over 20 ethnic restaurants: Italian, Japanese, Korean, East Indian etc. making the small town somewhat of a culinary stop-over on the way North or South. Hope Sushi offers a relaxed dining experience when you’re craving a few fried or fresh rolls.
If you’re craving some light faire with a hand-crafted beverage, Blue Moose Coffee House is your best friend. There’s always a buzzing energy; whether you go alone or with a friend you’re bound to find good conversation amongst comfortable surroundings. The French Onion Soup is one of the best items on the menu here when it comes to the heartier selection. Sweet Tooth? Try the Coconut Cream pie with a signature Americano.
So what are you waiting for? Get up to Hope, BC for hiking, skiing, biking, dining and even a little sasquatch-spotting! You’ll feel right at home.
Stay up-to-date with WSGT for more global adventures via our blog, Facebook,Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and youtube channel!