Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest spreads over 140 acres on the northeastern quadrant of 144 Street and 24 Avenue only a short distance west of the gated residential community of Semiahmoo Wynd.
This forest stands out as one of Canada’s first designated urban forest parks. It was declared a forest park in 1988, following a vote by Surrey residents to protect it. No reforestation was undertaken in this forest park, unlike Green Timbers Urban Forest Park and Redwood Park both also in Surrey. Instead, the woodlands of Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest regenerated by itself after it was logged in the early 1900s. This natural regeneration created a diverse environment for flora and fauna.
In summer, this forest blooms with the rare rattlesnake plantain orchid, while in autumn, colourful vine maples take over the amazing scenery. The wonderful forest setting has created a thriving all-season habitat for black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, coyotes, and various bird species.
The forest’s self-regeneration inspired the formation of the Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society devoted to the maintenance and protection of the forest. Comprised of residents of the Sunnyside neighbourhood, the association works closely with Surrey Parks in promoting the protection of this urban forest.
Within its eye-pleasing woodlands, this forest park offers a meandering 2.5-mile footpath accessible both to hikers and bikers.This network of trails include several loops traversing streams, boardwalks, and forest canopies. Visitors have several options on which way to take, with the choices ranging from the 0.8-kilometre Wally Ross universal access trail to the more rugged nature footpaths of Moss Trail and Douglas Fir Trail.
The forest park’s trails lead onwards south to other recreational opportunities in the South Surrey Athletic Park and the South Surrey Recreation and Arts Center.
A visit to the large South Surrey Athletic Park offers fun opportunities for all members of the family. The park provides facilities for baseball, football, tennis, pickleball, soccer, rugby, and volleyball. It also offers a playground, a BMX bike park, and a waterpark.
Alternative fun activities are as inviting at the nearby South Surrey Recreation and Arts Centre. Its offerings include a gymnasium, a modern weight room, and a dedicated art space with art services provided by the Semiahmoo Arts Society.
Abilities Neurological Rehabilitation
Next in this series of points of interest in Surrey Canada, you can learn about Central City.