Indigenous Community
Éy Swáyel. Welcome to Cheam Territory.
Our Cheam Roots
In August 2024, Cheam First Nation welcomed Fraser River Lodge home. The purchase, made with the Nation's own revenue, is part of a larger vision to rebuild community, grow the land base and create opportunity for future generations.Cheam, known in Halq'eméylem as Xwchí:yò:m, means "wild strawberry place." The name began with a small island in the Fraser River across from Cheam village that was once covered in wild strawberries. The village took its name from the island, and the mountain we see from our decks took its English name from the village.
We are grateful to gather, work and welcome guests on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Stó:lō people, within S'ólh Téméxw. As a business owned by Cheam First Nation, we hold this acknowledgement as a responsibility we carry every day.
Mt. Cheam | Lhílheqey
Rising above the Lodge, Mount Cheam is known to the Stó:lō as Lhílheqey (THEETH-ul-kay), a woman turned to stone and given the role of watching over the river below, its people and the salmon that feed them. That river is the Stó:lō, the Halq'eméylem name for the Fraser, which is why the Stó:lō are known as the People of the River.
Today, Cheam's connection to both lives on through fishing, farming and stewardship, and each summer you can spot the snowy "angel" on her slopes from our riverfront decks.
Indigenous Experiences
Join us in experiencing the cultural traditions and teachings of the people on whose lands Fraser River Lodge stands. We partner with local Indigenous Knowledge Keepers to share meaningful experiences rooted in connection to the land and community. From a Traditional Welcoming to workshops on trauma and healing, empathic body work, and guided teachings, these offerings provide powerful opportunities for reflection, growth, and understanding. We are committed to building lasting relationships with Indigenous partners and creating space for guests and teams to deepen cultural awareness, sensitivity, and inclusion. If you are a local Indigenous person interested in sharing your knowledge, we invite you to connect with us below.
Exclusive Discount for Indigenous People
Fraser River Lodge is pleased to offer a 15% discount on facility rentals and overnight accommodations for Indigenous people. For wedding bookings, Indigenous people will receive a 10% discount. Contact us today for more details and to plan your stay.
