Beer Lovers Rejoice in BC!

While the craft beer scene has certainly exploded over the past two decades, one thing has remained consistent: BC knows how to make a good beer. With Horseshoe Bay Brewery, Canada’s first microbrewery, having established its roots back in 1982, BC has long been considered the province where the craft brewing scene really got its start. 

Breweries in all corners of the province continue to stun with their beer making know-how. And the best part? These are beers you need to travel for. With many breweries keeping things close to home by not distributing beyond the province, there are some delicious discoveries to be made no matter which region you’ll be exploring next.

A strong craft brewing scene like this doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. It takes leadership and the nourishing of community, something the BC Craft Brewers Guild takes on in advocating for improved supports for the industry in order to contribute to job creation and the boosting of local economies. This network helps align all players and ensure that challenges and opportunities are addressed as a collective.

One such way they support this network is through the BC Ale Trail, a resource of 22 self-guided itineraries helping folks discover over 200 breweries across the province. And with all that stunning landscape just begging to be explored, you can bet that good beer and good adventure go hand-in-hand. 

At this point, it’s probably safe to say there is a beer out there for everyone. So where will your next beer take you? Read on to discover some of the thirst-quenching breweries featured on the trail in Maple Ridge and Vancouver. 

Maple Ridge Ale Trail

Forested communities between the Golden Ears Mountains and the Fraser River offer as much in outdoor adventure as they do in flavour. Spend any amount of time on this trail and you'll soon discover why Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows are worth getting to know better. 

The Patch Brewery

This family-run brewery, founded by farmers-turned-brewers, knows the importance of sourcing—and growing—quality ingredients. From barley harvested on their own farm to homegrown toppings on their rotating artisan pizzas, every detail reflects a commitment to local flavour and quality.

Foamers’ Folly Brewing Co. 

The only brewery in Pitt Meadows has one of the most varied lineups on the BC Ale Trail. With 20 taps always on the go, you can sample and taste to your heart's content, alongside the kind of snacks you crave with a good beer—most notably, anything with cheese. Given that we've sent you on an ale trail, you may be better off taking some beer for the road (read: after the road, no drinking and driving please!) to taste your way through even more of the brews on offer. 

Switchback Brewing

With humble origins and a homebrewing passion that grew into Maple Ridge’s first brewery, Switchback Brewing now offers a small but cozy tasting room where guests can explore 10 beers on tap at their own pace.

Vancouver Ale Trail

With five days of itineraries taking you through Vancouver's most iconic neighbourhoods, you're in for a seriously good beer adventure. Start in East Van, or "Yeast Van" rather, where one of the city's most celebrated brewing corridors is packed with craft breweries that are well worth the visit. From there, let the beer lead the way as you explore the distinct character of neighbourhoods like Commercial Drive, Mount Pleasant, Gastown and more!

Strange Fellows Brewing

It’s often the unexpected that keeps things interesting, and Strange Fellows is no exception. Renowned for their sour and barrel-aged beers, their spirit of experimentation has earned them a devoted following and industry acclaim. From seasonal fruit-infused creations to limited releases of sour, blended and vintage beers, embracing the strange is all part of the experience.

33 Acres Brewing Company

This community spot in the heart of Mount Pleasant will see you through the day, whichever way you want it. Stop by for coffee and brunch and stay longer for a pint and snacks, choosing from a selection of European and West-Coast style brews. 

Superflux

Superflux lives up to the hype. This stylish brewery pairs standout beer with gourmet hot dogs in a space that's as polished as its pours. While IPAs are the main attraction, a commitment to experimentation means there's always something new to discover, whatever your palate.

Thirsty for More?

The BC Ale Trail is about much more than great breweries. Each self-guided itinerary pairs craft beer with local attractions, outdoor adventures, restaurants and shops, showcasing the best of each destination. While every journey features beer, it's the complete experience that makes the BC Ale Trail unique.