About CHASE
Nestled at the confluence of the South Thompson River and Little Shuswap Lake, Chase is a village that embodies the spirit of connection — to land, history, and each other. Officially incorporated in 1969, Chase’s roots reach far deeper into the past, shaped by Indigenous stewardship and the waves of settlement, industry, and community building that followed.
Nature & Landscape
Chase is blessed with breathtaking landscapes that change with the seasons. Rolling grasslands and wildflower meadows burst into colour each spring, while surrounding mountains and forests invite hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing year-round. The iconic 300-meter red pier stretches into the clear waters of Little Shuswap Lake, offering visitors a place to swim, fish, or simply soak in the scenery.
Seasonal festivals, outdoor concerts, and farmers markets bring the community together against this stunning natural backdrop. Whether you’re paddling on the lake in summer or skiing nearby in winter, Chase offers an authentic experience in nature’s playground.
History at a Glance
Long before European settlement, the land now known as Chase was the heart of Secwepemcúĺecw, the traditional and unceded territory of the Secwepemc people. Their sophisticated culture, guided by oral traditions and deep respect for the environment, flourished here for thousands of years.
Non-Indigenous presence began in the mid-1800s with Whitfield Chase, a pioneer settler whose family lands would later form the original townsite. In 1907, the arrival of the Adams River Lumber Company marked a new era. The mill quickly became the third largest in British Columbia, employing hundreds and shaping Chase’s early growth. Logs floated down from surrounding forests, while the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) provided essential transportation for goods and people.
Though the mill closed in 1925 due to timber depletion and market shifts, its legacy shaped the foundation of the community. The town’s growth continued, evolving beyond its resource-based beginnings toward a vibrant village focused on tourism, local business, and cultural preservation.
Community Today
Today, Chase is home to approximately 2,400 residents who enjoy a blend of small-town warmth and big adventure. Local shops, art galleries, and restaurants offer a welcoming atmosphere, while annual events like CornStock, Music on the Lake, and farmers markets bring people together across generations.
The Chase Chamber & Visitor Centre plays a key role in supporting this community — promoting business, assisting visitors, and fostering collaboration through initiatives like Together Chase. Volunteers and staff work year-round to build a resilient, inclusive, and thriving place to live, work, and visit.
Chase’s story is still being written, as new residents, Indigenous partners, and visitors contribute to a future that honours its rich past while embracing opportunity.