The last remaining bit of the historic Semiahmoo Trail is tucked in behind houses, running through the woods and is a gem of a trail in South Surrey. Originally a first nations footpath the Semiahmoo Trail is a scenic walk that follows the path of the old Semiahmoo Wagon Trail through the Elgin area where you will be able to catch glimpses of history as you walk along the heritage site. This trail is one of Surrey’s best walks and runs from Elgin School, near the Nicomekl River to 20 Avenue in South Surrey. It was originally called the Semiahmoo Road and ran from Brownsville on the Fraser River, where the SkyTrain bridge now stands, to Semiahmoo (now Blaine) on the US border. It was the first road across Surrey, built in 1873-74 when Surrey was still part of New Westminster District. It fell into disuse with the coming of the railways and this section is the only remaining part in something like its original condition.
I am placing a number of caches along this historic trail which has a significant role in my family heritage. My immigrant grandparents settled in this area in 1916 and my father was born in the Anderson farmhouse on the Semiahmoo Trail in 1921. My father, aunts and uncles all walked the Semiahmoo trail every day between the family home and the Elgin School. We had many family reunions based at the school and we would all walk along this trail up to the farmhouse while listening to stories about the “younger” years.
I hope you all enjoy the remnants of history as you walk this trail. Have fun.
The GPSr was quite bouncy in this area but the hiding spot should be obvious. Please use not only your geo-senses but common sense. Have fun!
