Experience the Fraser (ETF) is a unique vision to connect communities, parks, natural features, historic and cultural sites and experiences along the Lower Fraser River. The Canyon to Coast Trail and Recreational Blueway are the backbone of the project, connecting Hope to the Salish Sea by means of over 550 kilometres of trail (43% of which is already in place) and via the river itself.

By bringing together existing points of interest and features along the river, ETF will add strength and dynamism to local tourism and economic development initiatives, acting as a catalyst. The hope is for all to be inspired to become more active stewards on behalf of the river, and for the Lower Fraser River to become one of the world’s great river destinations.

Over the past two years, the ETF team has worked with Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, the Province, First Nations, federal agencies, municipalities, non-government organizations, interest groups and other motivated citizens to develop the ETF Concept Plan.

The plan lays out the framework to support the proposed ‘Canyon to Coast Trail and Blueway’, creating an experiential journey along the Lower Fraser River where stories will be revealed about the river’s ecology, people, history, communities and industry. Existing recreational, cultural and interpretive attractions and points of interest are captured as ‘amenity and feature points’ and a series of community nodes and portals serve as additional destinations.

The Concept Plan also presents a Foundational Program that once completed will serve to define an Experience the Fraser identity and brand.  

 ETF Concept Plan  
 ETF Concept Plan Map 11x34
 ETF Concept Plan Map 11x17 (2 pages)

The ETF Concept Plan was endorsed in principle by both the Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley Regional District Boards in October 2011. 

 Fraser Valley Regional District Board Report
 Metro Vancouver’s Board Report

The Vision for Experience the Fraser will take many years to bring to fruition, and will involve many partners including the Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley Regional District, the Province, First Nations, municipalities, other agencies, the private sector, and motivated community groups and citizens.

ETF’s success depends on shared commitment to implement the Vision and strong partnerships. The ETF team is now working on an Implementation Plan, to be completed by summer 2012 that will address:

• which parties will participate in implementation and how they will be involved; 
• how the project will be funded moving forward; 
• options for resilient resourcing; 
• marketing and tourism opportunities; 
• ongoing outreach and communications efforts; and 
• collaborative solutions to cross-jurisdictional obstacles (e.g. best practices for recreational dyke access, roads and bridges, and recreation interfaces with agriculture and industry).

The ETF team looks forward to continued dialogue with interested parties to help shape the project’s future by providing feedback on the ETF Concept Plan, building partnerships, and advancing implementation strategies.