As you leave the Shuswap and head west down the last hillside along Highwayrn1, you’re rewarded with a stunning view of Little Shuswap Lake, where the South Thompson River begins its journey through a valley framed by hills and mountains. To the south lies the charming village of Chase, which in the summer appears as a lush green oasis beside the shimmering blue waters. Its long red pier stretches into Little Shuswap Lake, adding to the town’s picturesque beauty.

 

Incorporated in 1969, Chase has a rich history of settlement dating back torn1865, when Whitfield Chase first homesteaded the valley. By the early 1900s,rnthe village had grown into a booming lumber town. Today, Chase serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural region, a retirement community, and a bedroom community for Kamloops. It also plays a vital role in the local economy through the forestry sector while acting as a center for culture, recreation, and education. With the completion of the latest highway project, access to Chase will be greatly improved, helping to boost both community spirit and the local economy.

 

Over the past decade, Chase has experienced significant growth, attracting new residents drawn to its affordable housing, relaxed lifestyle, ample green spaces, and community amenities. One way to gauge the strength of a community is by looking at its volunteer organizations, and in Chase, these groups are thriving. The village is home to numerous active non-profit societies that support recreation, seniors, history, culture, environmental initiatives, and social services.

 

Perhaps the busiest group is the recreation society, which manages both the community arena and the popular nine-hole golf course at the town’s center. During winter weekends, the parking lot at the Memorial Arena is packed with cars as youth hockey teams compete in tournaments and the Shuswap Skating Club hosts events. These programs are so popular that they attract participants from neighboring communities such as Dallas and Blind Bay. When the Chase Heat, the town’s Junior Hockey League team, takes the ice, the stands are filled with passionate local fans.

 

In the summer, music fills the air, thanks to the Chase Festival Society. This organization sponsors the weekly "Music on the Lake" series at the waterfront park’s bandshell, as well as Canada Day celebrations, the annual Corn Stock festival, and a Pride celebration. This June, the society will team up with the recreation society to host a concert at the arena.

 

Another key recreational highlight is the network of trails known as the Scatchard Mountain Switchbacks, located on the hillside south of the highway. Originally built by the Adams River Lumber Company to access the Chase Creek and Turtle Valleys, these trails are now a beloved outdoor destination. Thanks to funding from the federal government and the efforts of the Shuswap Trail Alliance, a major upgrade is in the works. Once the highway project is completed, access will improve significantly, with a new parking lot located next to the village’s western entrance.

 

Chase is also deeply committed to sustainability and climate action. The village council actively supports initiatives to reduce the community’s carbon footprint, including energy efficiency programs, tree-planting efforts, and an active transportation plan that encourages walking, cycling, and even the use of golf carts. Additionally, the Chase Environmental Action Society plays a vital role in promoting awareness and green initiatives.

 

With a recently upgraded water treatment plant and a well-designed sewage treatment system, Chase is well-prepared for future growth. Although its geographic footprint is somewhat limited, there is land available for development west of Chase Creek. The Whitfield Landing development is already filling up with manufactured homes, while an additional 28 acres are designated for further housing expansion. Plans are also underway for a 37-unit affordable rental building for seniors near the arena, and a housing co-op is preparing to move into its first building near the downtown core.

 

Looking ahead, Chase has the potential to double its population to overrn5,000 residents. With its friendly community spirit, vibrant cultural scene, and year-round recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder more people are choosing to call this village home.