03 About Maple Ridge
A city between the river and the mountains
Maple Ridge sits on the north bank of the Fraser River, on the traditional territories of the Katzie and Kwantlen First Nations. It was incorporated as a district in 1874, making it one of the oldest municipalities in British Columbia, and it became a city in 2014. For much of its history it was a collection of small communities, including Port Haney, Port Hammond, Albion, Whonnock, Ruskin and Webster’s Corners, each with its own landing, mill or farm economy. Many of those names survive as neighbourhoods today.
Town centre and Port Haney
The modern downtown, historically known as Haney, is centred on 224 Street and Haney Place. It holds City Hall, Memorial Peace Park, The ACT Arts Centre, the leisure centre and two shopping malls, all within a few walkable blocks. Just downhill, Port Haney is the city’s original steamboat landing and a designated heritage district, with historic buildings, a riverside wharf and two small museums.
Nature on every side
Maple Ridge’s real calling card is the outdoors. Golden Ears Provincial Park, one of the largest provincial parks in southwestern BC, lies at the north end of the city, with Alouette Lake, beaches, campgrounds and challenging hikes. Kanaka Creek Regional Park follows a sandstone canyon and waterfalls down to the Fraser, and the Alouette River runs through farmland and equestrian country. Dikes and trails line the Fraser and Pitt river shores.
Who it suits
Maple Ridge appeals to families looking for more space, people who love hiking, riding and paddling, and anyone who prefers a slower pace. It is also a practical base for exploring the eastern Fraser Valley: the Golden Ears Bridge, toll-free since 2017, connects to Langley and Surrey, and Mission is a short drive east.
Plan your visit around a neighbourhood. Start in the town centre for food and culture, wander Port Haney’s heritage streets, then head to Albion or Silver Valley for parks and trails.
