Minter Gardens

This month I had the opportunity to visit the world famous Minter Gardens located a few kilometers from Chilliwack British Columbia. The garden and the man who built it are household names in this part of the world. He has combined the beauty of our local Cascade Mountains and West Coast Rainforest with various Theme Gardens to create a unique world-class attraction Minter Gardens was born in the mind of Brian and Faye Minter in 1977 when they first laid eyes on the site. Under the magnificent beauty of Mt. Cheam the rolling hills, rocky surface and towering trees must have been quite a sight. Their dream was realized on Mother's Day 1980 when Minter Gardens officially opened.

The garden is built on 32 acres and has 11 theme gardens, restaurants, and a gift shop. Only one minute from the Trans Canada Highway, it seems like a world apart. A testament to the hard work and planning that has gone into this wonderful garden.

Of the 11 themed gardens (Fragrance, Rose, Formal, Arbor, Rhododendron, Meadow, Fern, Hillside/Alpine, Stream and Chinese Penjing) the most spectacular for me was Rhododendron. The use of naturally occurring features with selective plantings combined for a unique visual experience. With over 1000 Rhododendrons on the property the colour of these plants was everywhere. In fact, one overwhelming aspect of the garden is the colour. My sister who lives in Australia once commented after snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef that she had never seen so many colours in one place. I would have to say the same of this place.

The garden has an extensive network of trails and pathways (most of which are paved and suitable for wheelchairs/strollers). The paths rarely travel far in a straight line so there is always a new and exciting surprise just around the corner. There has been a lot of thought put into this garden and it shows as the transition from one area to the next occurs naturally. There are many benches available to enjoy the surroundings or reflect for a moment.

The gardens have also provided may couples with a beautiful and memorable backdrop to their wedding vows. There is an onsite miniature Wedding Chapel and reception facilities.

Minter Gardens is located about 90 minutes east of Vancouver, British Columbia. You will need to get off the Trans Canada Highway #1 at exit 135. The town of Chilliwack is only about 15 minutes away and is known for its country atmosphere, parks and sweet corn. The resort community of Harrison Hot Springs is also close by as is Sasquatch Provincial Park.

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