The Stories of Sq’ewqéyl I:mex Xalh (Skowkale Walking Path)
S.A.Y. Lands is made up of the Sq’ewqéyl (Skowkale), Áthelets (Aitchelitz), and Yeqwyeqwí:ws (Yakweakwioose) First Nations in Chilliwack, BC. Their Active Communities Grant project promoted physical activity and Indigenous knowledge-sharing centred around the Sq’ewqéyl I:mex Xalh Walking Path. Through community engagement events, Story Walks, and geocaching, approximately 780 people were reached through this project!
Local youth are ready to share about Story Walks and geocaching at the community launch event. © S.A.Y. Lands.
Community Launch and Story Walks Initiative
To celebrate and officially launch the program, S.A.Y. Lands hosted a film screening of Playing For Keeps: The Upside of Downtime, a documentary about the essential role of play as an antidote to stress. The film and launch event aimed to get residents excited about exploring the trail through geocaching and Story Walks.
Story Walks were originally launched in 2023 in partnership with Fraser Health and the Chilliwack Learning Society. Rotating stories — such as Stand Like a Cedar, Be a Good Ancestor, and I Sang You Down from the Stars — are paired with reflective questions. Some funding for this project went to Story Walks expansion, including getting permanent metal podiums created by the University of the Fraser Valley’s Welding Department.
Community members engaging with geocaching and Story Walks on the walking path. © S.A.Y. Lands.
Geocaching with Cultural Learning
Their innovative approach combined modern geocaching with Indigenous teachings. To engage as many community members as possible, two formats were offered: app-based traditional geocaching or screen-free cultural geocaching with physical markers and educational content. The caches rotate periodically to encourage repeat visits, and included things like:
• Replicas of culturally significant items with descriptions.
• Plant identifiers with QR codes for Halq’eméylem audio and traditional significance.
• Drawings of intentional design features along the path with cultural context. Local Indigenous artists were involved in the design and creation.
Some funding was used to commission original art and wood carvings, alongside 3D replicas, to be included in the geocaching materials.
Geocaching materials, offered on a rotating basis to maximize engagement. © S.A.Y. Lands.
Through a variety of activities, the S.A.Y. Lands project successfully integrated physical activity, educational activities, and Indigenous knowledge-sharing. The innovative use of Story Walks and geocaching strengthened community ties and cultural understanding.
