Along the Shores of Cultus Lake

After an exhilarating afternoon of rides and water fun, we crossed the street to have a relaxing stroll along the shores of Cultus Lake.

Cultus Lake is considered the gem of Fraser Valley, and Cultus Lake Park is a prime recreation destination southwest of Vancouver. It is a popular excursion site for those who enjoy fishing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, hiking, swimming, golfing, horseback-riding, and camping.

We were just in time for the “golden hour,” which provides the best lighting for picture-taking. Some beachcombers offered to take our group shot, which was nice and we managed to get all the kids standing still and smiling, too.

We stayed for a bit to wade in its warm waters, dig in the sand, and enjoy the view of forest-clad mountains in the horizon. On one side was a marina with small boats floating gently in the breeze, and on the other side, a row of colourful cottages and townhouses against the backdrop of verdant rolling hills. We waited for the sunset, and yes, it was the most incredible sight!

It was busy as any summer day would be. Cultus Lake is a resort town where locals (from around Vancouver) and tourists alike flock to enjoy the lake, the hiking trails, the campgrounds, and the festive atmosphere, either on a daytrip, a weekend getaway, or a full-season vacation. During this time, the big four campgrounds are open and hostels, B&Bs, and restaurants are in full swing. But I could imagine how tranquil it must be in the off-season, when only the small community of locals remain to enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings.

We decided to take the long way to the parking lot to give ourselves a chance to see a small section of the residential area on foot. We passed by charming houses with flowering gardens.

My cousin and I wondered how it would be like to retire in this town. But as we noticed how almost every street is filled with parked vehicles, we realized that at least three out of twelve months a year, the town must be filled with tourists. I told her I was not sure if nine months of peace and quiet is worth it, if we are to endure this kind of summertime swarming. Imagine everyone escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city during their vacation days and they land on your backyard and along your streets like a swarm of busy bees? Coincidentally, that was what we were exactly doing!

As we approached the parking lot, the kids grumbled that they were getting hungry. We guessed it’s because of the barbecue scent wafting in the air from one of the many fine restaurants around the area. We told them that we were going to my aunt and uncle’s place in Delta for dinner with the other cousins and that it wouldn’t be long till we get there. In the meantime, they could finish their take along snacks.

But as the early evening was hot and humid and we spotted a gelato place nearby (the best, we heard), we all gave in and got ourselves another round of cold treats.