Mission Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important and natural attractions, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and safety measures when travelling to Mission, British Columbia, Canada.


Introduction to Mission

Mission, located in Fraser Valley, British Columbia, is a quaint and charming town that has a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the heart of the stunning mountain landscape, it is an excellent destination for adventure seekers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Mission

Here are some of the top attraction sites to visit during your trip to Mission

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mission Museum - A rich source of historical artifacts and exhibits detailing the town’s history.
  • Stave Falls Visitor Centre - Take a walk through the hydroelectric powerhouse and discover the history of electricity in the province.
  • Westminster Abbey - A Benedictine Abbey, ideal for individuals looking to experience the calm, peaceful ambiance of a religious facility.

Natural Attractions of Mission: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cascade Falls Regional Park - A well-maintained trail to a stunning waterfall, perfect for hiking and picnicking.
  • Fraser River Heritage Park - The park offers a serene environment to relax and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Hatzic Lake - An enjoyable spot for swimming and fishing, this lake is surrounded by picturesque scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mission

Mission boasts of several trails that offer a glimpse into its natural beauty, such as:

Best Things to Do in Mission: Activities and Tours

Whether it’s history, culture, or adventure, Mission has a range of activities to satisfy everyone’s preferences, such as:

  • Visit the Hatzic Rock carvings, significant stone carvings of a man and a bear, estimated to be more than 1500 years old.
  • Witness the excitement of the annual Mission Fest street festival, featuring live music, creative performances, fun games, delicious food, and drinks.
  • Try fishing at Ruskin Dam, one of the most famous fishing spots in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mission

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a weeklong excursion in Mission:

Day Plan
1 Visit the Mission Museum and Stave Falls.
2 Adventure at Cascade Falls
3 A religious retreat to the Westminster Abbey
4 Take a soothing walk around Fraser River Heritage Park.
5 Hiking and biking at the Rotary Riverside Trail.
6 A fishing trip to Ruskin Dam
7 Attend the annual Mission Fest street festival

Food and Drink Scene of Mission

Mission is famed for offering its visitors a wide range of delicious food and drink options, some of which include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mission-style tacos
  • Burgers at the Blackberry Kitchen
  • Beef, chicken, and vegetables at the new Chongqing Family Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Old Abbey Ales
  • Chilliwack River Valley, Merlot Noir, and Chardonnay wines

Where to Stay in Mission: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mission has several accommodation options to choose from, and some of the most popular ones include:

What to Buy in Mission: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the local products that visitors can buy around Mission include:

  • Handcrafted trinkets at the Mission Farmer’s Market.
  • Fresh produce and homemade jams, jellies and preserves at local farms like Lepp Farm Market and Youngberries Farm.

Local Culture and Customs of Mission

  • People in Mission are friendly.
  • Tipping is customary, and it’s usually 15-20% of the total bill.

Best Time to Visit Mission

Mission offers fabulous opportunities regardless of the season, but the best time to visit is in the summertime between June and August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mission

Do:

  • Respect the natural habitats and admire the wildlife from a distance.
  • Be friendly and courteous to locals and fellow travelers.
  • Tips service professionals after their services.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas and parks.
  • Enter a religious site without permission.
  • Drink alcohol in public areas and parks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mission

Mission is generally safe for visitors. However, it’s advisable to:

  • Avoid walking alone at night and in secluded areas.
  • Be extra watchful in crowded areas like festivals and markets.
  • Stay alert when in the mountains, especially when hiking or doing outdoor adventures.

Health in Mission

Mission visitors should take the following health precautions to stay healthy:

  • Wear sunscreen and use insect repellent.
  • Stay hydrated and carry enough water when taking trips.
  • Get vaccinated with routine vaccinations like measles.

Getting to Mission: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mission

The nearest airport to Mission is Abbotsford International Airport (YXX), which is approximately 21 km from the town’s center.

Bus Stations Near Mission

Buses to Mission are available from the Greyhound stations located in Abbotsford and Maple Ridge.

Other Options

Uber and taxi services are available at the Abbotsford International Airport and through various companies in Mission itself. Rental cars are also readily available.

How to Get Around in Mission

Visitors can get around Mission through Rental cars and bus transportation, though getting around on foot or by bike is ideal.

Where to Go Next from Mission: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Head to the Yarrow or Harrison for their picturesque views and extensive nature trails.
  • Maple Ridge has an exceptional adventure park with an exciting obstacle course for thrill seekers.

Conclusion

Mission, British Columbia, is an ideal getaway destination for individuals looking to experience the town’s magnificent natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With the numerous attraction sites, beautiful hiking, biking routes, and delicious local foods, Mission is a must-visit location for travelers exploring BC.

Mission Post Office, First Avenue at Welton Avenue in the heart of Mission's commercial core Mission Post Office, First Avenue at Welton Avenue in the heart of Mission's commercial core The Mission Bridge is used by Highway 11 The Mission Bridge is used by Highway 11 Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey Mission Way Mission Way