Mission is a district municipality that sits on the northern edge of the Fraser River, with Maple Ridge to the west and Abbotsford south across the river. The town itself is a small one, but Mission residents get to enjoy some of the most picturesque natural beauty in the Fraser Valley.
If you love the outdoors, there is no shortage of things to do in Mission. With numerous lakes, trails and forests plus the raging Fraser River, Mission is the place for adventure enthusiasts. You might also be surprised by Mission’s rich history and cultural draws.
In this article, we’re sharing some of our favourite things to do in stunning Mission, BC. Before you embark on your next outdoor adventure, swing by your local cannabis shop and pick up some BC bud for later.
Enjoy the Patio at Mission Springs Brewing Co
Located at 7160 Oliver Street on the western edge of downtown Mission, Mission Springs Brewing Co is home to one of the best patios in the city. With plenty of outdoor seating and sun, the patio is a great place to kick back and enjoy a burger and a beer. Plus, the patio is a cannabis-friendly space, which means you can light up your favourite BC bud.
Visit Mission’s Newest Cannabis Shop
Cheeky’s Cannabis has made the move to historic downtown Mission. As a fast-growing community that’s surrounded by outdoor paradise here in Mission, Cheeky’s is proud to be a part of it all. Come check out our cannabis shop on 1st Avenue, right off Highway 7 as it splits into North Railway Avenue. Our relaxed, welcoming environment is what separates our shop from the herd. Stop by – our friendly staff will help you find the perfect product!
Catch Some Races at the Mission Raceway
Mission Raceway Park (MRP) is an auto racing facility featuring a ¼ mile NHRA-sanctioned dragstrip, a 2 km 9-turn road course, and a 3 km motocross track. Located right next to the Fraser River near downtown Mission, the MRP has been providing family-friendly entertainment for over 70 years now.
The MRP hosts a number of affordable motorsports events every week. The track hosts a handful of race series, where you can catch street legal cars, old time drag shows, drifting, and even motorcycle races.
Attend the Mission Folk Festival
If you’re lucky enough to be in Mission during the summer, the Mission Folk Festival is definitely something worth sticking around for. The 2025 festival took place from July 25-27.
The Mission Folk Festival has been a cultural institution in Mission for nearly 40 years now. Fraser River Heritage Park opens up for a weekend of live folk music plus blues, Americana, global rhythms and more. With 5 different stages for concerts, dancing and workshops, the festival also features a big artisan market, food court, and beer garden.
Find your folk and learn more about the music, art and community on the Mission Folk Festival website.
Hike to Steelhead Falls
Steelhead Falls is a majestic waterfall reachable from downtown Mission in just 15 minutes. The trailhead is found just off Dewdney Trunk Road, near the Hayward Lake Reservoir. As you’ll discover in Mission, you don’t need to travel far to find stunning rural beauty.
The falls are accessible by a short 1 km trail. It is a simple out-and-back trail (not a loop) for a total of about 2 km. The trail is an easy one for families which takes you around Hayward Lake, across a couple bridges, and up 75 m to a nice viewpoint.
Explore Historic Mission
Founded in 1861, Mission was one of the liveliest destinations in the Valley by the mid-1900’s. But of course the true history goes back much further. People have been building homes along the river for thousands of years in hopes of easy access to the abundant salmon.
Mission itself is also part of the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Stó:lō First Nations people. To the east, you’ll find the remains of a 9,000-year-old Aboriginal village known as X̲áːytem, which has now been recognized as a National Historic Site.
Step back in time and explore the history of downtown Mission with a walk along 1st and 2nd Avenue. Admire the old architecture while checking out the numerous shops and public art displays.
The Mission Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Mission and its people. Located right on 2nd Avenue, the museum is operated by the Mission District Historical Society, which accepts donations for admission.
Take in the Fraser River
The Fraser River is the lifeblood of the Valley, which also provides plenty of options for outdoor adventurers, thrill seekers, and hungry anglers. The river itself runs right along the southern edge of Mission, meaning you can access it on foot from the downtown core.
The river is an excellent spot for watersports, whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or something more relaxing. There are several companies in the area offering whitewater rafting and pontoon adventures. You could also rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore some of the river’s calmer inlets and bays.
The Fraser River is also somewhat of a destination for fishing. There is some world-class fishing to be had here, particularly when it comes to opportunities for various species of salmon and massive white sturgeon.
Visit Rolley Lake Provincial Park
Rolley Lake Provincial Park is home to a small, warm-water lake that’s ideal for swimming, lounging, and fishing. The park is easily accessible from downtown Mission, located near Stave Falls, to the west of Hayward Lake and Stave Lake.
The park is home to a 64-site provincial campground that’s open all year round. From here, you can easily explore the park, which is predominantly flat forested wilderness. The lake is the star of the show in the park, with a sandy beach and designated swimming area. It’s a great spot to take the kayak, canoe or paddleboard out. You can even fish for trout, just be advised, all motors (including electric) are prohibited.
Explore Cascade Falls Park
Cascade Falls Regional Park is found in the Hatzic Valley, roughly 25 minutes by car from downtown Mission. This 22-hectare park is home to Cascade Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Fraser Valley.
Cascade Falls is a 30-metre waterfall that can be reached easily on foot via a short 1 km trail. The trail takes you through dense coniferous forest, past several smaller 18-metre waterfalls, and over a suspension bridge with stunning viewpoints.
Make a day out of your trip to Cascade Falls Park by taking advantage of the day-use picnic area, located near the parking lot. Enjoy your lunch while you listen to the relaxing sounds of the river.