Vancouver Sun

Places to stretch your legs during the outbreak

- JULIA PIPER jpiper@postmedia.com

DERBY REACH REGIONAL PARK

This park is located on the banks of the Fraser River in Langley, and offers scenic trails along the Edgewater section of the park, as well as a forest loop along the Houston Trail in the Historic Area.

You needn’t be an experience­d hiker to enjoy the scenery as there are a number of flat, easy trails such as the short, two-kilometre Edge Trail where you will see some of B.C.’s largest cottonwood trees. For a longer walk, try the 12-km Fort to Fort Trail, which will take you to Fort Langley and back, and offers lovely views of the water. You’ll have to tackle some hills if you choose the four-km Houston Trail, as there are some steep sections, but you will be rewarded with pastoral views and some sneak peeks into the Langley Bog.

Dogs are welcome at the park, but must be leashed and under control at all times. This park is located in an active farm area, so please stay on designated trails, and respect the work and privacy of the farmers.

IONA BEACH REGIONAL PARK

Situated just north of the Vancouver Internatio­nal Airport, the park is made up of a long, narrow jetty of sand and grass. Located where the Fraser River meets the sea, Iona Park is home to a rare variety of sand dune plants. It also sits along the Pacific Flyway — a major north-south flyway for migratory birds — making it a great spot for birdwatche­rs.

Perfect for all ages and abilities, the park offers flat, easy walks for both short strolls and long walks. The boardwalk and observatio­n platform at the west side of south marsh and the cycle path on Iona Jetty are all wheelchair accessible.

If you plan to take your dog, please note that there are two areas where dogs are not allowed due to wildlife habitat. There is, however a leash-optional trail located along the lower roadway on Iona Jetty.

 ?? ARLEN REDEKOP ?? A view of Haney across the Fraser River is seen at Derby Reach Regional Park in Langley. The park offers scenic trails to explore along the Edgewater section and a forest loop along the Houston Trail.
ARLEN REDEKOP A view of Haney across the Fraser River is seen at Derby Reach Regional Park in Langley. The park offers scenic trails to explore along the Edgewater section and a forest loop along the Houston Trail.

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