Mount Cheam

Route Description for Mount Cheam

The Cheam Peak Trail is a challenging hiking route near Bridal Falls, BC that climbs uphill at a fairly steep grade, rewarding you with spectacular views from the summit. The road leading up to the trailhead is in pretty rough shape and will likely require a 4x4 or high clearance vehicle in order to safely make it the entire way. If you must take a smaller car, go slowly and drive carefully! The lower portion of the trail is easy enough to traverse; however, the push to the summit is fairly steep and is covered in snow late/early in the season. Wear proper hiking footwear and bring crampons or microspikes to help with your footing in these conditions. Additionally, bears are frequently seen in this area, so always travel in groups, make lots of noise, and bring bear spray.

This hiking trail is truly spectacular, with fantastic views that stretch out across countless mountain peaks and over the peaceful valleys of the surrounding area. Along the trail, you will hike through scenic alpine meadows where you can see beautiful wildflowers if you plan to hike in the late summer. Climbing up higher, the trail branches off from a route to nearby Lady Peak and sets off towards the summit of Cheam Peak. This route is not overly technical but it is steep. The grind is worth it, as you will have amazing 360° views that span the length of the Fraser Valley and include a host of rugged peaks, including Mount Baker to the south and Four Brothers Mountain to the northeast.

Leaving your vehicle behind at the trailhead, follow the path northeast as you cross over several mountain streams and hike through the trees. The trail opens up into a beautiful alpine meadow as your course turns more directly to the east and passes by Spoon Lake on your right. From here, the trail will become very steep. Take the path to the right to begin your climb along a series of switchbacks up the mountain. Eventually, you will arrive at a fork in the trail, with the right path leading to Lady Peak.

At the junction, follow the trail to the left to begin your final push to the summit of Cheam Peak. Climbing along the ridge, you will have some amazing views overlooking the Fraser Valley. As you reach the summit, you can gaze out in all directions at the amazing scenery before you, with Lady Peak and Mount Baker off to the south and the various communities of the Fraser Valley spread out from east to west. Be careful not to get too close to the edge of the lookout as sections are known to break away, which has led to several deaths. After appreciating the breathtaking views, head back down the Cheam Peak trail to return to your vehicle for the bumpy trip home.

Other Amazing Hikes in Fraser Valley

Check out our guides to Lindeman Lake, Bridal Veil Falls, Cascade Falls, Elk Mountain Trail or Hicks Lake Hike. Or see all our hikes in Fraser Valley on 10Adventures.

Insider Hints for Mount Cheam

• Bring bear spray and travel in groups as bears are frequently seen on the trail.
• It’s best to use a high clearance vehicle for the drive in as the road is very rough.
• Bring microspikes or crampons to gain better traction in snowy/icy conditions.
• Don’t chance it too close to the edge- the ground is unstable and prone to breaking off.