vancouver island bike tour routes

Cycling & Biking on Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands

Premier Listings: Cycling & Biking on Vancouver Island & BC Islands

Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands of British Columbia are popular destinations for cyclists to explore by bike, whether on a ride for a few hours, a full day, or an extended cycling touring expedition. With a bicycle, a mapbook, a small tent, and just the basic camping equipment, outdoor adventurers can enjoy the solitude of the BC wilderness without incurring excessive cost and hassle.

Cycling & Biking on Vancouver Island

Leisurely rides through quiet forests, rural landscapes and deserted backroads provide a glorious mix of fitness and solitude. Recently named the Cycling Capital of Canada, Victoria is home to several excellent routes. From Victoria, strap your rented bicycle to a bus rack and head out into the countryside, or pick up the Galloping Goose Trail and pedal through fields of golden corn and dozens of parks and forests. The Galloping Goose Trail runs from the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to Victoria and then on to Sooke and Leechtown.

The Seaside Touring Route , one of the region’s designated cycling routes, follows the coastline, granting gorgeous view of the Pacific Ocean and the Olympic Mountains leading through some of the city’s most beautiful residential areas. Beginning at the southwest corner of Beacon Hill Park , travel east following Dallas Road along the coastline, stopping at any of the numerous parking areas to take in the views. Along the way, Dallas Road’s name changes to Beach Drive and continues into the Oak Bay neighbourhood. At the Oak Bay Marina, watch the antics of seals playing in the water and check out the yachts.

The next stop is Willows Beach for a stroll along the shoreline. Carry on to the exclusive neighbourhood of Uplands, the location of Uplands Park and the Cattle Point lookout. Wandering through quiet residential neighbourhoods and densely wooded estates, the Seaside Route heads towards Mount Douglas Park and along suburban Royal Oak Drive to connect with the Lochside Trail . This is where the route heads back towards downtown Victoria.

The Saanich Peninsula has some wonderful routes with names that say it all: Strawberry Fields Forever, Lands End Loop, Best Beach Bike Route, Cole Bay Sun and Surf, and Flatlands Farm Route.

Limited cycling is permitted in Goldstream Provincial Park along the short trail that runs between the day-use parking lot and the Freeman King Visitors Centre. Although brief, the trail does lead through a breathtaking grove of broadleaf maple trees that blaze in fall, as well as some large western red cedar that thrive on the water from the nearby river.

Shawnigan Lake is another wonderful destination for a day ride – a paved road circles the 20-km long lake. Stop at Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park for a picnic or swim. To avoid the steep 1,155-ft climb over the Malahat, cyclists can hop aboard the BC ferry that runs across the Saanich Inlet from Brentwood Bay to Mill Bay.

Follow the Wine Route markers in the Cowichan Valley . Country roads meander through the valley and past several vineyards and cideries, always popular way stations for weekend riders on this 12-km route.

The Parkway and the Railway Trail in Nanaimo are two of the most popular cycle routes in the city of Nanaimo. Bicycles are allowed on both the Kanaka Bay Trail and Mallard Lake Trail in Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park . There are gentle, wide pathways shared with pedestrians. The entire island is a park and can be reached by ferry from Nanaimo’s inner harbour.

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a sightseeing bonanza of old-growth forests, provincial parks and campgrounds, forest service campsites, remote beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and pristine freshwater lakes. The route is approximately 200km long, and you can take as long as you like, staying in campgrounds, cottages, bed & breakfasts, or hotels along the way. View the Premier Listings below for a tour operator offering this adventure as a guided cyling tour. If you prefer to pedal your own path, this route is described in more detail on the Pacific Marine Circle Tour page. You can avoid the sweat and challenge of climbing the Malahat, between Mill Bay and Victoria, by catching the Brentwood Bay/Mill Bay ferry, a most scenic shortcut accross Saanich Inlet.

The Log Train Trail in Port Alberni offers 25 km of trail for hikers and cyclists through the beautiful Alberni Valley and leads to the McLean Mill Historic Site.

Discover the new wilderness bike path from Ucluelet to Pacific Rim National Park. Watch the skies for eagles and the waves for seals – they’ll be watching you!

Cycling & Biking on the BC Gulf Islands

Every year, thousands of cyclists trek to the Gulf Islands in search of secluded country roads and scenic off-road trails taking you on a tour of natural beauty, leading you to hilltops for fabulous views and down to the beach for an afternoon swim. Whether you rent a bike or bring your own, the Gulf Islands provide a perfect destination for cyclists seeking adventure. For inter-island travel to the Southern Gulf Islands of Pender, Mayne, Saturna, Galiano and Saltspring Island, board BC Ferries from either Crofton or Swartz Bay. Foot passengers can take a day trip to a number of islands. Each of these islands is a world unto itself, each with its own history, culture and colourful characters.

Mayne Island is perhaps the most pleasant one to cycle. You can tour the whole island in the course of an easygoing day, with stops around its perimeter at Miners Bay, the Georgina Point Lighthouse, Campbell Bay, Horton Bay, and the BC Ferries dock at Village Bay. As with all islands, freshwater is a precious and often rare substance. One of the few places to fill your water bottles is at Dinner Point Community Day Park, a short ride south of Village Bay. A detailed road map of the island is available at the information kiosk at the dock. If you want to stay overnight on the island, there are many bed and breakfasts as well as a private campground.

A ride around Gabriola Island is lengthy – the island is about 20 km long – but touches on a variety of good beaches, including Gabriola Sands Provincial Park, Sandwell and Drumbeg Provincial Parks, roadside picnic tables at Brickyard Beach, and the sheltered enclave at Silva Bay, a popular stopover for marine traffic in summer, and a good place to wet your whistle.

Pedalling Gabriola is a fairly straightforward endeavour: North and South Roads loop around opposite sides of the island and meet at Silva Bay. For a special insight into the aboriginal mythology of the Cowichan Nation, take time to view the petroglyphs carved in the rock face of a field behind Gabriola United Church on South Road. Follow a trail behind the church through the forest to an open field and begin exploring the rock face for ancient images.

Of all the southern islands, Galiano Island has the most well-organized mountain-biking trail system. While exploring the rugged, spiny island visit Bluffs Park, the site of some spectacular views and the beginning of a network of trails and roads around Mount Galiano.

• Note that helmets are mandatory on public roads in British Columbia.

Premier Listings

Business information.

FarOut Wilderness is an outdoor adventure travel company specializing in overland vehicle rentals and tailor-made itineraries in British Columbia. We use our local knowledge and experience to transform your ideas into an authentic and unique adventure.

Our self-drive itineraries allow you to explore off the beaten track at your own pace. We provide you with the resources to re-connect with nature and most importantly each another. All of our vehicles are fully insured for driving on unpaved roads and are equipped with a rooftop tent, camping equipment and GPS Messenger service.

FarOut Wilderness operates in all seasons and has one pet friendly vehicle. We offer complimentary vehicle collection and drop off at the following locations: Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, Victoria Airport, Victoria Downtown, Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, Vancouver Downtown, and Vancouver Airport. If you have another collection or drop off location in mind, please contact us!

Page’s Resort and Marina on beautiful Gabriola Island welcomes you with secluded fully-equipped seaside COTTAGES, a pristine CAMPGROUND nestled in the woods, a full service MARINA providing quiet nightly moorage with fuel dock, showers and laundromat, kayak RENTALS, and mountain bike RENTALS, BOOKSTORE featuring local authors as well as charts and the best of marine publications, Li’l market providing a wide selection of food and products locally made or grown on Gabriola Island as well as a wide range of groceries, pharmaceuticals and sundry items. There is fresh coffee and scones to enjoy here or on the go.

Located on five acres overlooking Silva Bay on beautiful Gabriola Island, minutes from golf and restaurants, Page’s offers spectacular kayaking and sailing, incredible diving and fishing, scenic hiking and cycling, and simply relaxing with a book in our picnic grounds and gardens. Arrive by land, sea or air: now with an air service from Vancouver’s South Terminal to Silva Bay via Gulf Island Seaplanes.

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Vancouver Island

Road Cycling Routes on Vancouver Island

Road cycling

In this guide, we’ve reviewed our full collection of road biking routes on Vancouver Island to bring you the best rides in the region. To find the one which is right for you, click on any of the Tours to see a full breakdown of its details including elevation profiles and surface analyses, and browse real tips and photos shared by other members of the Komoot community.

The best rides on Vancouver Island

Lochside trail – pat bay cycle path loop from sidney, test - gravel path was cool – pat bay cycle path loop from swartz bay.

Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app

Stinks here 🤧 loop from langford, saltspring north side loop from ganges, lochside trail loop from westhills, explore these rides on the map.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Vancouver Island

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Mountain Biking Collection by komoot

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Find the perfect Tour

Explore the most popular tours on vancouver island, discover the most popular attractions on vancouver island.

Explore more of British Columbia : Browse the best Road Cycling Routes in other regions.

• Coast Mountains
• Greater Vancouver A
• Rocky Mountains
• Capilano Watershed
• Metro Vancouver Regional Parks
• Coquitlam Watershed
• Eagle Mountain Recreation Site
• Stanley Park National Historic Site
• Oak Bay Islands Ecological Reserve
• Grouse Mountain Regional Park
• Colony Farm Regional Park
• Victoria Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary
• Təmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional Park
• Selkirk Mountains
• Cypress Provincial Park
• Buntzen Lake Recreation Area
• Capilano River Regional Park
• Pinecone Burke Provincial Park
• Pacific Spirit Regional Park
• Kanaka Creek Regional Park
• Okanagan-Similkameen D
• Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve
• Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park
• Mount Seymour Provincial Park
• Pitt Meadows
• Garibaldi Provincial Park
• Minnekhada Regional Park
• Okanagan Lake
• Iona Beach Regional Park
• Lynn Headwaters Regional Park
• Satellite Channel Ecological Reserve
• Okanagan-Similkameen E
• Monashee Mountains
• Central Okanagan
• North Saanich
• Tantalus Provincial Park
• Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park
• Squamish-Lillooet D
• Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
• Goldstream Provincial Park
• Sooke Hills Wilderness Regional Park
• Ƚáu,Welṉew̱/John Dean Provincial Park
• Fraser River Delta -- Ramsar
• Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area
• Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area
• Maple Ridge
• Okanagan-Similkameen F
• Alice Lake Provincial Park
• Gowlland Tod Provincial Park
• Glen Valley Regional Park
• Comox Valley C (Puntledge - Black Creek)
• Alaksen National Wildlife Area
• George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary
• Burnaby Lake Regional Park
• Sea To Sea Regional Park
• Fraser Islands Regional Park Reserve
• Thwaytes Landing Regional Park
• Central Saanich
• Central Okanagan J
• Codd Wetland Ecological Conservancy Area
• Blaney Bog Regional Park Reserve
• Comox Valley A
• Seal Bay Regional Nature Park
• Comox Valley B (Lazo North)
• Robert'S Lake Regional Park
• Brohm Lake Interpretive Forest Trails
• Brohm Lake Day Use Recreation Site
• Squamish-Lillooet C
• Mount Tuam Ecological Reserve
• Mount Maxwell Ecological Reserve
• Whistler Interpretive Forest
• Deas Island Regional Park
• K'Ómoks Royston Lands
• Tynehead Regional Park
• Ayum Creek Regional Park Reserve
• Mount Gardner Recreation Site
• Surrey Bend Regional Park
• Stephens Coyote Ridge Regional Park
• Ubc Malcolm Knapp Research Forest
• Bowen Island Ecological Reserve
• Crippen Regional Park
• Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
• Blackcomb Glacier Provincial Park
• Okanagan-Similkameen C
• Crown Land Reserve
• Upper Trent River Woodlands
• Ruckle Provincial Park
• Bear Creek Provincial Park
• Burgoyne Bay Provincial Park
• Purcell Mountains
• Campbell Valley Regional Park
• Vedder Mountain Interpretative Forest
• Cowichan Valley G
• North Cowichan
• Boundary Bay Regional Park
• Cougar Canyon Ecological Reserve
• Fraser Valley G
• Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park
• Mount Maxwell Provincial Park
• Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park
• Fraser Valley E
• Sumas Mountain Regional Park
• Sunshine Coast A
• Golden Ears Provincial Park
• Cowichan Valley B
• North Okanagan D
• North Okanagan B
• North Cowichan Municipal Forest Reserve
• Sooke Mountain Provincial Park
• Okanagan-Similkameen A
• Strathcona D (Oyster Bay - Buttle Lake)
• Mill Farm Regional Park Reserve
• Fraser Valley F
• Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site
• Cowichan River Provincial Park
• Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park
• Cowichan Valley F
• Woodley Range Ecological Reserve
• Upper Puntledge River Woodlands

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Vancouver Island Trail

Endless Adventure Awaits

Interactive MapS

A great way to explore vancouver island trail..

This interactive map allows you to view and explore the VI Trail route section by section overlain on a satellite image, in either 2-D or 3-D. As you pan around and zoom in, additional information such as trailheads and contours becomes visible. The various points of interest include images as well as descriptions. The map legend appears by clicking the lower button in the upper right corner of the map. Switch from 2-D to 3-D and ‘look around’ with buttons in the upper left.

This is a work in progress – If you have any comments or suggestions, email  [email protected] .

The VI Trail information is presented on the World Imagery basemap provided by ArcGIS Online – Esri. Data sources include: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, i-cubed, USDA FSA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS User Community

Explore the First Nations Languages and Cultures of Vancouver Island

The First People’s Map of B.C. is an interactive map that allows you to explore a wealth of information about the languages and cultures of the First Nations of Vancouver Island and all of British Columbia. The map also provides information on events, arts, organizations and points of interest.

Presented here courtesy of the First Peoples’ Cultural Council

Did you know? – There are 34 First Nations languages in B.C.!

Bikepacking Vancouver Island Sunshine Coast Loop

Possibly one of the most immersive ways to experience and discover the west coast of British Columbia is by bikepacking. This 557km cycling route takes you deep through the heart of Vancouver Island, across the Salish Sea and traverses the Sunshine Coast. Undulating gravel roads, pavement, groomed trail, single track and ferry rides is what you will experience when Bikepacking Vancouver Island Sunshine Coast loop.

The Lay of the Land – Bikepacking Vancouver Island Sunshine Coast

I am a huge fan of loop routes that allow you to be riding towards new terrain each day and not knowing what to expect around the next corner. This multi day bikepacking route takes you across 4 regions of the west coast of British Columbia. They include; The Sunshine Coast , Comox Valley , Alberni Valley and Cowichan Valley upon both Nuu-chah-nulth and Coast Salish territories.

The beauty of loops also is that you can start anywhere along the way. Wether you live in Vancouver on the mainland, on the Sunshine Coast or maybe somewhere on Vancouver Island you can just start at the closest point near you. For my route I began in Chemainus in the Cowichan Valley hoping right onto the Great Trail to start my ride.

As mentioned above the total distance the route covers is 557km but this does include the 4 ferry sailings. Total bikepacking distance over the ride will be in the ballpark of 418kms. This distance can be greatly modified as there are endless alternate bikepacking route options for the Sunshine Coast out there. You can also modify the route for more or less pavement, more gravel roads, more single track or less climbing. ( Bikepacking.com is an awesome resource)

For the purpose of this blog post my route went counter-clockwise starting in the Cowichan Valley. The BC Ferries route schedules you will need to consider are; – Departure Bay (Nanaimo, Vancouver Island) to Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) – Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) to Langdale (Sunshine Coast) – Earls Cove to Saltery Bay (Sunshine Coast) *payment only require on Saltery Bay side – Powell River (Sunshine Coast) to Comox (Vancouver Island)

Bike and Gear for Bikepacking Vancouver Island Sunshine Coast

First off I owe a lot of credit for what bike to use, how to setup my bags and what to pack to my friend Vik who I did this trip with. (check-out his awesome tip to tip Vancouver Island bikepacking trip ) Secondly, my experience with lightweight backpacking and endless hikes was a huge advantage. It allowed me access to both the gear and experience for packing up my bike so I didn’t have this learning curve to overcome.

I used my 2020 Chromag Rootdown hardtail mountain bike for this trip as we had some plans to tackle rough single track and washed out logging roads. If you avoid the climb above Sechelt and stick to the Sunshine Coaster you will be 100% fine with a gravel bike or rigid MTB.

I stuck with a light gear kit and for food we planned to do the “credit card” meal plan by stopping in each town. Thus I left my backpacking stove at home. I easily mounted everything I needed to my bike and wore a small 12 litre Dakine mountain bike backpack. I did this so I could carry my phone and wallet as well as a few small items when on the fery rides or when leaving my bike locked up to go into grocery stores. For camping locations there are endless bed & breakfasts, local rec sites and provincial campgrounds. We chose to random camp to cover as much ground as possible in each day.

Day 1 – Chemainus to Langdale

This section starts out hoping directly onto the Cowichan Valley (Great) Trail that passes through Chemainus and connect directly to Ladysmith. Next you follow the very busy Island Highway ducking off towards Cedar to enjoy the quieter less busy side roads. This connects back to Nanaimo where once again you find yourself on the Great Trail and navigate to Departure Bay ferry terminal. Here you ride the ferry across to Horseshoe Bay and connect onto the Langdale Ferry. A short easy section to start the trip with our night ending in Langdale.

Day 2 – Langdale to Comox

Our morning was greeted with a steep pedal up the highway from the Langdale ferry terminal to Gibsons where we had breakfast. After eating we headed towards Sechelt but took the alternate route via Lower Road which is far more scenic and less traffic. It goes to Roberts Creek and then back up to the highway and into Sechelt. A quick stock up in Sechelt for more trail food and then we headed towards up out of town leaving the highway for the West Sechelt trail system.

This would take us along single track, access roads and then eventually grinding up the massive climb of the Halfmoon Carlson logging main. The grind was worth it as you reach the old growth and now large second growth forests of Spipyus Provincial Park. You are also awarded great views of the Sunshine Coast and across to Vancouver Island. From here we made our way down to the Sunshine Coaster trail and then onto the highway to roll into Earls Cove to catch the ferry to Saltery Bay.

The ferry ride was a great break in riding and stunning views from the ferry as we crossed the water. From Saltery Bay to Powell River is a 31km ride along the highway for those that want a fast route or choose from the links below to create some gravel grind or single track options. ** In our case one of our bikes had a serious mechanical so we managed to hitch a ride on this section to make the last ferry out of Powell River to Comox.

As I had touched on, the Sunshine Coast is a mountain bike trail mecca with hundreds of trails you can create your own route. You can try the Sunshine Coaster trail or you may want to checkout the region on Trailforks > Southern Sunshine Coast and Northern Sunshine Coast . The team at Bikepacking.com have also put together some great routes for this portion such as Bikepacking Lower Sunshine Coast and this new great one by my friend Natalie, Powell River Sampler .

Day 3 – Comox to Port Alberni

The day in Comox starts out with a nice ride from the Little River Ferry terminal to downtown Comox. Here is where I need to give a quick shout out to Comox Bike Company for their great short notice help to fix Vik’s bike and get us on our trip with very little delay. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee downtown while his bike got repaired.

Bike all fixed and full bellies we pedalled from Comox through Courtenay and onto Lake Trail road that leads the start of the climb from the valley to Comox Lake. This is where the roller coaster of climbs and descents of the Comox Logging road begins. This long section of trail takes you around the North and west side of the lake. Throughout your ride you are flanked by the towering ridges and big rivers flowing into the lake.

The Comox Main eventually works its way down into the Alberni valley. Here you connect onto the Log Train trail . This portion drops you into Port Alberni via a historic rail bed originally developed in the early 1900’s as part of the Bainbridge Mill rail- logging  operation. The  trail  stretches for 25 kilometers along the foot of the Beaufort Range.

Food, drink, pit stop or whatever you need is available in the city of Port Alberni. A major hub of fishing and the logging industry offers countless restuarants and facilities. You can look for local rec sites and campgrounds here or continue on out of town as we did to find a quiet random campsite along the northern logging roads

Day 4 – Port Alberni to Lake Cowichan

The final leg of the bikepacking Vancouver Island Sunshine Coast loop starts with a climb out of the Alberni Inlet and makes its way south to Bamfield. (terminus of the famous West Coast Trail) This is a very busy and active logging road so ride safely and stay alert. Very large logging trucks move fast here and kick up loads of dust making breathing and visibility tough at times.

Near the end of the Alberni Inlet you turn off Bamfield road onto Carmanah Main as you drop into the Nitinat region. This is where the Alberni Valley meets the Cowichan Valley with your last major turn onto North Shore Road leading to Lake Cowichan. At the far west end of the lake is a possible camping spot at Kissinger Rec site as well as the many spots on the north side of the river.

Eventually you arrive in lake Cowichan which is the summer getaway for boaters and weekend campers. It can be very busy so take care on the roads in the area. In town you can stop at any of the restaurants or grocery stores to restock and reenergize yourself.

Lake Cowichan presents you with two options, you can take the north side of the river and add a few miles to ride across the 66 Mile trestle enjoying the BC Parks section of the Great Trail. Or you can stick to the north side of the river on the CVRD section of the Great Trail and zip the 25km fast into Duncan and then following the Great Trail route back to Nanaimo (Chemainus for me) to complete the loop. Trails BC has a nice overview on both options here ~ Cowichan/Great Trail

Lake Cowichan can make for a great day 5 stop, the only reason I put in such a big day is that I was so close to home.

Disclaimer ~ Bikepacking Vancouver island Sunshine Coast Loop

I have put this information up to try and help others plan their own bikepacking trip. The information is what I had at the time and anything I share here is used at your own risk. This route involves varied terrain, skill levels with much of it remote and some areas with no cell reception. It is important to know that some areas are private forest lease land and some are busy highways. There is wildlife including bears along much of the route and weather conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared to stay overnight in a spot with extra food. Be aware of leave no trace principles and also do your utmost to respect the region you are in. Check seasonal access closures, ferry schedules and other related travel advisories before setting out.

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Join the discussion 11 comments.

Thanks for taking the time to post your experience! Rootdown looks good loaded with all that gear. Your posts are slowly convincing me that a steel hardtail is an ideal choice for those that want a bikepacking and mountain biking rig in one.

It has been a great decision for me to build up the Chromag Rootdown hardtail. The ability of it to do several things well and not be pigeon holed into too specific of a riding niche has been awesome. I’m glad you liked the trip report and my fun bikepacking.

Looks like an absolutely incredible trip Chris, and as always amazing photographs! I’ve been bikepacking for about eight or nine years and it is so cool to see it continue to gain popularity with outdoor minded people. And in these crazy times it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while also find solitude and stay away from others

Less driving, can discover new places, easy to do for anyone and of course fun. Whats not to love about riding our bikes more and driving less. It is pretty amazing how much distance we can cover by just keeping those legs pedalling.

Hello, YOu mentioned being just fine on a gravel bike if riders stuck to the Sunshine Coaster – is that an actual route or just the road through the sunshine coast? We’re looking to do this route in a couple weeks but we will be on fully rigid bikes, likely not up for the north-south Lower sunshine coast trail.

Hey Jeff, the trail should be fine for you and the beauty is there are several drop out points if it doesn’t work out well for you. What kind of tires do you run? I’m on 700×43 tubeless so it is a bit more supple on my modern gravel bike and can handle rougher single track. It is indeed an actual route and runs above the highway. https://www.scrd.ca/Suncoaster-Trail

Excellent. Thanks for the details. Any reason not to ride the opposite direction that you rode? For meeting friends and family, we were considering a clockwise loop.

Glad to help Jeff. For us we did the route south to north as our starting point being that we rode from our homes was south Vancouver Island. Chatting with friends, when on a mountain bike riding single track, is even more enjoyable on the Sunshine Coast going north to south. I am sure the same would apply for rigid/gravel bike routes.

Awesome. thanks for your feedback and work on this route. We’re looking forward to it!

Good to see someone using the Rootdown as a bikepacking rig! I find them to be more comfortable than bikes aimed at touring like the Disc Trucker and Karate Monkey… with the added benefit of being able to shred double blacks!!

It has been an awesome all around rig and I really like it. Some days I miss that rear suspension but when I look at the whole package it is capable of I remember why I went hardtail. The only change since this trip is I am now running Michelin Wild AM tires instead of the Maxxis Rekons.

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Mountain Biking & Cycling

See Vancouver Island from a different perspective: race down the trails of Mount Washington on a mountain bike; keep up with traffic on the Pat Bay Highway on a touring cycle; ride the Galloping Goose from Sooke to downtown Victoria, or tour Nanaimo’s bike lanes on a beach cruiser. Or take a ferry to explore the roads and trails of the Gulf Islands. Cycling is best on Vancouver Island.

Mountain Biking on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is rapidly growing as one of the most sought-after mountain biking destinations in the world, and for good reason. The hidden gems of Duncan, Nanaimo, Cumberland, and Campbell River, boast a fusion of cross-country and all-mountain trails that weave through meadows of wildflowers, rocky outcroppings, and mature forests. All the while, never far from the ocean. Trails are carved atop features that have been a millennia in the making by the Earth’s mightiest forces, riding on the island is best described as raw, rad, and rowdy.

Plan your ride and learn more about mountain biking on Vancouver Island by visiting MountainBikingBC.com .

Mountain Bike Trail Associations

• South Island Mountain Bike Society
• Sooke Bike Club
• Cowichan Trail Stewardship Society
• Cowichan Lake Trailblazers
• Nanaimo Mountain Bike Club
• Arrowsmith Cycling Association
• United Riders of Cumberland
• Ucluelet Mountain Bike Association
• River City Cycle Club

Know Before You Go

• Trailforks is the #1 app for wayfinding and navigation of mountain bike trails on Vancouver Island.
• Community trails are typically built and maintained by volunteers. It’s recommended to support these non-profit organizations by leaving a donation at a local bike shop or via the Trailforks app.
• Always be prepared for accidents or mechanicals.
• Vancouver Island has very few opportunities for shuttling, so be prepared for longer rides.
• If possible, connect with a local guide like Island Mountain Rides !

Riding Fool Hostel

Long beach nature tours, mount washington alpine resort, jordie lunn bike park, the pedaler cycling tours, see vancouver island through the eyes of travellers.

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Island Mountain Rides

Vancouver Island, BC, Canada

Mountain Bike Tours on Vancouver Island

Island Mountain Rides offers professionally guided mountain biking tours on the trails of Vancouver Island,  in Cumberland, Campbell River , Forbidden Plateau/Comox Lake Area and on Hornby Island .

IMR is based in Cumberland, which is centrally located and is a great place to access the trails of Vancouver Island.

Please email us at [email protected] to reserve a tour.  We can also answer any of your questions and pencil you into our calendar this way.

Professional and Ethically Operated:

Island Mountain Rides has legal land access agreements in all areas advertised and is fully insured. We are active in community organizations and are committed to running an environmentally conscious, locally focussed operation.

The Island boasts a wide variety of terrain and is renowned for it’s beautiful scenery.  The mountain bike trails that you will experience are all purpose built, mountain bike trails built by mountain bikers, for mountain biking!

All of our tours are tailored to suit your needs and our guides will show you the right trails for your specific skill and fitness level.  Beginner to Expert level, this area has a variety of trails to suit everyone.  We have everything from Day Tours to  Multi-Day Tours and we can also bundle or customize any of our tours for you.

Local Knowledge & Experience

Island Mountain Rides also specializes in custom tours and can build the perfect tour for your needs.  We have over 25 years of local knowledge on Vancouver Island and we use this knowledge to ensure you have a great riding vacation.

Click here for  pricing  or contact us for more details and availability at:

e-mail:  [email protected]

phone: 1.250.702.3940

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THE 10 BEST Vancouver Island Bike Tours

Bike tours in vancouver island.

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• Victoria West
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Pedaler

2. Toonie Tours Victoria

3. Cycle BC

4. Island Joy Rides

5. Cycle BC Rentals and Tours

6. Explore Vancouver Island

7. TOF Cycles Co

8. Cycle Treks

9. Pacific Rim Eco Tours

10. North 48 Bicycles

11. Pedego Electric Bikes

12. Amped Rides

13. Island Mountain Rides

14. Experience Cycling Day Tours Victoria

15. Oak Bay Bicycles Rentals & Experiences

16. Pedego Electric Bikes Victoria

17. Selkirk Station Bike Tours

18. Electric Alpine Biking - E-Bike Rentals & Trail Shuttle

19. Island Joy Rides

20. Citrus Cycles Ltd.

21. Take Off Adventure Rentals Canada

22. nanaimomountainbike.ca

23. walker e-bike tours & rentals.

24. Anthony Joh

25. Sol Paradiso X Motors

26. THE ELECTRIC BIKE TOUR CO.

27. food eco district.

28. Experience Victoria Tours

What travellers are saying.

• 3-Hour Bike Tour of Victoria City & the Coastal Shoreside
• Castles, Hoods & Legends - Bike Tour
• Victoria Shore Excursion: Castles, Hoods & Legends - Bike Tour
• Explore Vancouver Island
• Take Off Adventure Rentals Canada
• Island Joy Rides
• Pacific Rim Eco Tours
• The Pedaler
• Toonie Tours Victoria
• Island Mountain Rides

It is important to respect other trail users and support the organizations that maintain the trails where ever you ride.

Tips on how to ride safely and responsibly .

Vancouver Island

Rugged coastline and ancient rainforests combine with technical singletrack

Vancouver Island (a.k.a "The Island" by locals) has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Craggy ocean coastlines and beaches, old-growth rainforests, serrated mountains, and mighty rivers create habitats for many wildlife species including bears, orca and grey whales, cougars, bald eagles, and all five species of Pacific salmon. Mountain biking here is as close as it gets to becoming one with nature.

The region—encompassing Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands on BC’s southwest coast—has several mountain biking hubs including Campbell River , Cumberland , and Nanaimo on the central east coast and Cowichan , Langford , Sooke , and Victoria on the south end of Vancouver Island . Each island town boasts a vibrant mountain biking community with its own distinct riding style and culture. Each offers extensive trail networks with a diverse variety of mountains and coastal riding that ranges from steep and technical to smooth and easy.

"Vancouver Island is a unique place in the world, not simply because of the vast network of trails so easily accessible, but because the variety of styles provides riding for nearly everyone. Along with the coastal beauty and British feel of Victoria, the Island houses a myriad of tiny retreats and getaways that span the range from fishing to hiking, surfing to lush rain forests and snow capped mountains. Getting to Vancouver Island forces you to slow down and smell the roses, the pace is relaxed and the people warm and friendly."

- Andreas Hestler, Rocky Mountain Team Rider

Spots to Ride

Explore island riding communities.

Nanaimo is a classic west coast community situated on the eastern shores of Vancouver Island overlooking the Strait of Georgia (a.k.a. the Salish Sea). Known as “The Harbour City”, Nanaimo is quickly becoming known for the singletrack found in the lush green forests only a few minutes from the centre of town.

Campbell River

Campbell River is home to a huge variety of well established trail networks to keep you on the edge of your seat for years. Well known for its famous expansive networks, the Snowden network alone encompasses more than 100 km (62 mi) of singletrack, including some highly technical routes and scenic loops with varied terrain that are perfect for the beginner riders or the whole family.

Etched into the gnarly, forested hills spreading out from the Village of Cumberland are more than 80 km (50 mi) of Vancouver Island’s most legendary singletrack—where the trails range from fast and flowy to rugged and rocky, and where epic vistas are awarded to riders with the legs and lungs to get them there.

Cowichan is a biking haven with four distinct riding zones; Mount Prevost, Mount Tzouhalem, Maple Mountain, and Cobble Hill.  The area is fast becoming a leading mtb destination, attracting riders of all stripes to experience the quality of the trails and the challenge that they offer that have nurtured world champions. 

Get Inspired

Uncover the stories from Vancouver Island.

Share Your Ride

Shots from Vancouver Island. Share yours using #mtbbc.

Start Planning Your Trip

Vancouver Island is located in the Pacific Ocean, approximatley 97km (60 miles) west of Vancouver and 117km (73 miles) north of Seattle. Roads and highways on the Island stretch between Port Hardy in the north, Victoria in the south, Tofino to the west, and Campbell River to the east. Get to and around by car, RV, or bike via BC Ferries or or fly in and rent a vehicle to explore.

Learn more about Vancouver Island.

When to Ride

Find the best time to ride and more weather information.

Planning Resources

Find more information and resources to plan your mountain bike trip in BC.

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Popular Searches

• Portugal Bike Tours
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Vancouver & Gulf Islands Bike Tour

Couples, Friends & Solos

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

From $4,499 - $4,899 /person

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : Jun-Sep 2025 : May-Sep

Canada's Idyllic Isles & Victoria

Out here at the edge of the continent, the pleasures are simple. And while boutique wineries, local artisans and farm-to-table eateries are part of the daily scene, you won’t have to pedal far to imagine you’ve landed in a secret place. Where it’s just you and the soaring eagles, with space to spare.

• Bike rolling hills and admire the views of pristine coastline, lush cedar forests and bucolic inland pastures
• Explore one of western Canada’s most unique regions and behold its expansive views of the inland archipelago and Olympic Peninsula 
• Discover harbor seals and incredible birdlife, including bald eagles, around the Gray Peninsula and relax on white shell beaches
• Savor exquisite farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning wines locally sourced from the land and sea

British Columbia

Start/End Victoria

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Victoria International Airport (YYJ).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Soak up inspiring views of the Salish Sea en route to Brentwood Bay • Explore the Butchart Gardens' amazing floral display • Cruise what's known as Vancouver Island's Most Beautiful Shortcut aboard the Mill Bay ferry • Bike rolling country roads in bucolic Cowichan Valley • The mild microclimate here yields more sunny days than anywhere else in Canada! • Set a leisurely pace, stopping along the way at small boutique wineries, artisan studios and roadside produce stands.

Perched on a forested hillside with spectacular bay vistas, this chic boutique resort features a blend of West Coast and Asian styles. (pool, spa) 

Journey by ferry to Salt Spring Island, "the coolest island in Canada" according to the Washington Post • Enjoy an undulating and scenic ride past island cottages, pristine beaches and lush farmland • Stroll through Garry oak meadows to a stunning viewpoint at Ruckle Park • Visit local farm stands and stop to taste craft beer or artisan cider • Explore unique art galleries and whimsical shops in the town of Ganges • Our Relais & Châteaux home, Hastings House, welcomes you to 22 acres of beautiful land and colorful gardens.

This Sussex-style manor hotel is located on 22 acres with beautiful gardens overlooking the ocean and features tastefully furnished rooms. A Relais & Châteaux member. (spa)

Watch for porpoises, bald eagles and—if we're lucky—whales during a water-taxi cruise to Galiano Island • Bike quiet rolling roads past rugged shoreline and stretches of old-growth forest dotted with eclectic galleries and art studios • Enjoy peaceful beaches and quiet lanes as you discover an island long inhabited by the Coast Salish Nations • Hike or bike through temperate rain forest for endless vistas of the surrounding islands and Olympic Peninsula.

One of the island's original accommodations, this Pacific Northwest retreat is virtually a destination in itself thanks to its superb vistas of the harbor, Active Passage and the lighthouse on nearby Mayne Island. (spa)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

Straight Talk

We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.

While our properties on this trip offer outstanding service and amenities, please note they may not be equipped with air-conditioning, and guest rooms can occasionally become warm during peak temperatures.

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Premiere Hotel

* Casual Plus Hotel

• From Backroads (13)
• From Guests (0)

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Tag @backroadstravel or use #MyBackroadsTrip to submit your photos.

Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Included in your trip price

• Ideal for avid cyclists
• Redesigned for 2024
• Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
• Responsive, efficient and comfortable
• Drop handlebars only

Backroads Next Generation Performance Road Bike Sizing & Geometry

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• Suited for a wide range of cyclists
• Comfortable ergonomic seat
• Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
• Upright handlebars only

Backroads Touring Bike Sizing & Geometry

• One of the lightest e-bikes available
• Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
• Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

Backroads Electric-Assist Bike Sizing & Geometry

• $650 rental fee; subject to availability
• Ride like a pro with the top-of-the-line carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS
• Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package
• Built for hard-core riders

Carbon Bike Sizing & Geometry

• $400 rental fee
• Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed Cro-Moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train
• Custom upgraded wheelset
• Best for riders with some tandem experience.

Tandem Bike Sizing & Geometry

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Dates & Prices

Select Guests & Rooms

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us.

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us .

Your guest & room selections

You may only reserve one Stateroom Category at this time. Please call 800-462-2848 if you would like to make other arrangements.

Available Stateroom Categories

Each room must contain at least 1 guest.

Reservations must contain at least 1 adult (18+)

Please select your single room preference(s).

Enter the first & last name of your preferred roommate.

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Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

1 room, 1 bed

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Our Private Trips are best for groups of 6 or more. We suggest joining a scheduled trip.

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Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.

Book with Confidence

Backroads provides flexible booking policies so that you can plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

Tell Us About Your Trip

Request a Sample Itinerary

Itineraries include detailed descriptions of each day, tips on pre- and post-trip travel arrangements, regional highlights and more. It's the perfect tool to help you choose!

Not sure of your travel date? Select any departure to view a sample itinerary. We'll also email it to you so you can access it at your leisure.

We're always seeking opportunities to enhance our itineraries; published trip details including routes and activities, as well as trips start and end locations, are subject to change and can vary by departure. Please do not use this itinerary to schedule your flights or any other travel. A Travel Planner, complete with the trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at the time of booking or soon after.

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• Spring Break Camps
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Getting the Goods: Southern Vancouver Island | Video & NR Tour Report

Get an inside look into what a Guided Tour with Nolan Riding looks like!

"The idea was to experience a weekend getaway that a riding couple would take, complete with a stay at the very nice and very MTB-friendly Hotel Grand Pacific in downtown Victoria... Patrick and Merin from Nolan Riding delivered not only all the great riding we could handle, but all of the other things that turn a riding weekend into a memorable experience: the laughter, food, and good times won't soon be forgotten, and we'll be back next year!"

Read the full NSMB article:

Guided Mountain Bike Tours

Allow our guides to uncover the Vancouver Island trail networks and provide you with a wilderness experience you won't forget.

Tailored to your needs, this experience features:

• 3-Hour Wilderness Mountain Bike Experience
• Knowledgable ad PMBIA Certified Guides
• Tailored to Your Riding Skills & Style
• Mechanical & First Aid Support

Available Add-ons

• Transportation & Hotel Pick-up
• Bike Rentals

CAD/Person Base Price

Half-Day Guided Mountain Bike Tours

Untangle Trailforks

Maximize your ride with a half-day guided mountain bike tour tailored to your style and abilities. Have our certified guides take you on a wilderness experience through the Souther Vancouver mountain bike trail networks.

• Knowledgeable Guides
• Variety of Networks to Choose from

*2 person minimum

Available Add-ons:

*Please contact us at [email protected] to inquire about and reserve add-ons

Why Ride with a Guide:

Focus on your ride:

Vancouver Island is a maze of trails and networks with over 4000 registered trails, 103 official trail networks, and 35 skill parks. With so many trails it can be challenging to find what you need. Nolan Riding guides specialize in delivering a wilderness experience tailored to your skill level and riding abilities. We will give you the best route based on your needs so you can focus on the trail and enjoy the ride with your friends.

Viewpoints, summits, ocean rides, or the secret double black trails only locals know. Let us know what you enjoy riding!

Guide Experience & Certification:

Our guides are local certified coaches and instructors with wilderness first aid training and a wealth of bike mechanic experience. Guiding certifications give us the knowledge and experience to deliver skills instruction to support your riding experience as you ride new trails, features, and explore unfamiliar terrain.

Local to Vancouver Island, our guides will give you the inside line on all the trails, connectors, and hidden attractions in the forest. Each guide is chosen for their network knowledge and riding style so that you can get the most out of your experience.

We will show you the goods, help you ride new features, and support you along your journey.

Booking Process:

1. Gather 2-4 friends and book a Half-Day tour (Please contact us for larger parties)

2. We will reach out and gather more information on where you like to ride, what style of trails, your fitness ability, and your skill level.

3. We will match you with one of our guides to bring you a riding experience tailored to your needs

4. You will receive an itinerary and information about your tour so you are prepared and ready to ride!

Contact us at [email protected] for more information on how we can make your Vancouver Island mountain bike experience memorable.

Find a Date for you:

Contact Us:

Your Best Ride Starts Here!

"Giving you the best while we figure out the rest"

• 8-Hour Wilderness Mountain Bike Experience
• Exploration of Multiple Trail Networks
• Snacks - Lunch - Aprè
• Transportation

Full-Day Guided Mountain Bike Tours

Maximize your ride with a Full-day guided mountain bike tour tailored to your style and abilities. Have our certified guides take you on a wilderness experience through the Souther Vancouver mountain bike trail networks.

• Transportation between networks

1. Gather 2-4 friends and book a Full-Day tour (Please contact us for larger parties)

Custom & Multi-Day Guided Tours are tailored to your specific group's needs. Contact us to start building your tour package.

Tailored to your needs, these experiences features:

• Wilderness Mountain Bike Experience

Available Add-Ons:

• Build Your Experience

MULTI-Day Guided Mountain Bike Tours

Maximize your ride with a multi-day guided mountain bike tour tailored to your style and abilities. Have our certified guides take you on a wilderness experience through the Souther Vancouver mountain bike trail networks.

• Custom Experience Built For You

1. Gather your friends and contact us to start planning your trip.

• Untangle the web of trails
• Knowledgeable & Experienced Guides
• Showing you the best
• Tailored to your abilities & Style

• Untangling The Web Of Trails
• Harbourview
• Thetis Lake
• Mt. Tzouhalem

Untangling the web of trails

Vancouver Island has a dense and interconnected network of trails. Allow our guides to untangle the web of trails and enjoy a wilderness riding experience tailored to your riding style and abilities.

enjoy the ride! We will take care of the rest

Hartland Mountain Bike Park

• Beginner to Advanced Trail Network
• Technical Climbs & Descents
• Rock Features & Variable Dirt
• Summits, Ocean Views, Dense Forests

Harbourview - Sooke

• I ntermediate To Advanced Trail Network
• All Mountain - Enduro
• Technical Rock Features
• Technical Climbs
• Long Descents
• Summits &Viewpoints
• Peak to Ocean
• Dense Old Growth Forests

Langford Gravity Zone - Jordie Lunn Bike Park

• Beginner to IntermediateTrail Network
• Flow Trails
• Jumps & Berms
• Pump Track & Skills Areas
• Short Climbs, Short Descents

Thetis Lake Regional Park

• Beginner to Intermediate Trail Network
• Cross Country Trails
• Variable Dirt
• Multiple Summits & Viewpoints
• Dense Forests, Lakes, Rivers

Mount Tzouhalem - Duncan

• Flow Trails & Dirt Tech Trails
• Jumps, Berms, & Natural Features

Looking to book or find Something different?

Contact us for a personalized experience:

Start Building Your Custom Tour:

KIDS/YOUTH PROGRAMS

6 - 7 SPRING

6 - 7 SUMMER

8-10 WINTER

8 - 10 SPRING BREAK

8 - 10 SPRING

8 - 10 SUMMER

8 - 10 FALL

11 - 16 WINTER

11 - 16 SPRING BREAK

11 - 16 SPRING

11 - 16 SUMMER

11 - 16 FALL

ADULT PROGRAM

ADULT SPRING

ADULT SUMMER

ONE DAY WORKSHOPS

ADULT TOURS

PRIVATE LESSONS

DEVELOPMENT

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

KIDS CLOTHING

YOUTH SCHOLARSHIP

OUR INSTRUCTORS

WE'RE HIRING

CANCELLATION POLICY

CoviD-19 PROTOCOLS

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Happy Riding!

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Happiness Promise

There are hundreds of thousands of guides and tour operators around the world. Figuring out who to trust is stressful and hard.

That’s why we started 10Adventures Tours, we’re here to make it easy to find a great guide or tour operator. We handpick the best local guides and tour operators for 10Adventures, working to ensure you have great guides and a great trip.

We know it sucks to show up in a different country and find out the tents are junk, the guide incompetent or the route different from what we thought we were getting.

We want to give our users peace of mind that you’ll have a great trip and offer a guarantee that we will work with you to make it right.

How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

We work hard to make sure you have a great trip. If something isn’t right, please email  [email protected]  and we will get to work right away.

Group Trips

Group travel can be chaotic and messy, which is why going on a trip with family or friends is the fun part and planning the trip, well… isn’t. But what if the group travel experience of your dreams could be organized without the hassle of you needing to plan every detail?

With 10Adventures group tours, you’ll be the mastermind behind an unforgettable trip without the need to worry about logistics, payments, or who can get time off for a holiday.

The VIP-level service of our Travel Advisors allows you to organize the adventure of your dreams, customize it exactly how you want to, and watch the savings roll in as more of your friends and family sign up for the once in a lifetime experience you created. It’s that simple!

Take the first step on your next group adventure by contacting one of our Travel Advisors today.

The window to travel as a family only narrows with time. Make the most of it by exploring the world together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why share a travel experience with people you don’t know? Spend your hard-earned vacation surrounded by close friends on the adventure of a lifetime.

Shared travel experiences strengthen bonds and are the perfect way to come together as colleagues to solve challenges in a way that just can’t be done in an office environment.

Connect with members of your club or social circle over shared interests like food, culture, and the outdoors.

• VIP Service: Have a dedicated Travel Advisor who is always a call or a click away.
• Cost Savings: More people mean a lower cost per person. And there are additional discounts for children and shared rooms.
• Customizable: You are in charge and choose the start date, length, itinerary, accommodations, and other services.
• Easy Payment: Flexible payment schedule, and most importantly separate invoices so you aren’t left paying for other people.
• Private: Just you and your group making memories that will last your lifetime.
• Quality Time: There’s no better way to travel than alongside family and or friends. Enjoy quality time exploring the world with those you love most.

Vancouver Island Bike Tour

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

Ride through the best of Vancouver Island on this charming self-guided tour

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

About this tour:

What travellers are saying about 10Adventures

Jennifer W.

Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 5 nights along the tour are included.

Don't worry about meals. Meals for this trip are not included, however, you will get recommendations for best restaurants along the way during your pre-trip meeting.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Vancouver Island Bike Tour

The accommodations on this tour are often a highlight for guests as you’ll stay in deluxe, ocean and river view accommodations. Prices assume two people sharing a room. There is a surcharge for guests who request single rooms.

This Vancouver Island guided cycling tour will provide you with some of the most relaxing and comfortable accommodations. You will be staying in 3-4-star hotels where you will be able to enjoy a Spa, hot tubs, and pools after a long day of cycling and exploring (additional charges may apply)

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel while travelling with your group.

Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa, Royston

Located on the shores of the Salish Sea and 8 km outside of Courtenay, British Columbia, this resort offers an oceanfront spa and on-site dining with a scenic view on both sides.

Old House Hotel & Spa, Courtenay

Each room in this elegant Courtenay hotel features a fireplace, flat-screen cable TV, seating area and an in-suite bathroom.

Comfort Inn & Suites, Campbell River

Located on the waterfront, the Comfort Inn & Suites is in Campbell River. An indoor pool and hot tub are available. A hot breakfast is served each morning.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Planning a group trip?

Learn how we help group of friends, outdoor clubs and families get the tour they’ve been dreaming about.

Vancouver Island Bike Tour Details

Overview for vancouver island bike tour.

Enjoy the best cycling of central Vancouver Island on this self-guided Vancouver Island cycling tour. On your magnificent biking adventure you will be able to visit the funky town of Courtenay and the historical village of Cumberland. Enjoy the seaside town of Comox and the naturally wild Campbell River, not to mention the magical Denman, Hornby and Quadra Islands!

This cycling tour will fill your need for exploration as you bike through the majestic forests and relaxing beaches while enjoying the scenery of this peaceful place. Indulge your inner foodie with the best local cuisine as you learn where to find the most interesting eateries in town. Meanwhile, the local flora and fauna will delight the nature-lovers! You will have the chance to see some spectacular local species such as eagles, whales, and seals, all in their natural habitats.

This Vancouver Island cycling adventure will let you go to locations you would not be able to reach by car! Everything has been organized in the most comfortable way for you to enjoy it. Book your tour now.

This amazing Vancouver Island cycling trip is the perfect combination of adventurous biking, natural beauty, and the relaxing local vibes. You can try it all!

Itinerary for Vancouver Island Bike Tour

Arrive in royston.

To begin the Vancouver Island self-guided cycling tour, you will arrive late morning at the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa. You’ll meet with the staff who will have your bikes ready, and prepare for this amazing biking adventure. Start your cycling adventure using a mixture of seaside bike paths, city and country roads. Get to know the town of Courtenay and all its local offerings from markets, cidery/brewery and some natural escapes along the Puntledge River.

After your adventure, you can enjoy the relaxing sounds of the waves and the scenery of the ocean as you settle into the amazing Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa before the beginning of your journey (check in time is 4PM).

Explore Denman & Hornby Islands

Denman and Hornby Island are part of the Gulf Island chain, each offering their own unique coastal character. As you embark from Buckley Bay for a 3km ferry ride to Denman, be prepared to enter a Utopian society where residents have chosen to leave behind the big city life for a slice of rural living. Freedom, informal, self-sufficient, relaxing, and alternative are just some words often used to describe life on these islands. Denman, the first of the two islands, is best known for its vast and fertile farmlands. A second ferry ride from Denman will take you to Hornby Island: a thriving arts community with an emphasis on local organic agriculture/permaculture and small-scale energy-efficient building standards. Hornby’s beach at Tribune Bay is simply magical, a perfect place for a picnic.

The Land of Plenty

You’re off to explore the village of Cumberland and the seaside town of Comox today. Once a coal mining hub, Cumberland is quickly growing into a desirable niche community and dynamic tourist destination. Its coal mining past and funky new vibe make it a great place to explore. Choose to ride a short distance today and enjoy the pool and spa of the Old House Hotel after lunch or, if you’re looking for more, we suggest you explore Comox. From breweries and vineyards to forests donned “a place of serenity and beauty,” this little town is waiting to be discovered. Enjoy the Old House Hotel and Spa this evening.

Coastal Cycle to Campbell River

Today, you will be biking north to Campbell River, also known as the World’s Salmon Capital. The journey will take you through secluded farmlands, past the Miracle Beach Provincial Park, and come right alongside the ocean. It’s a great spot to get the glimpses of eagles, seals, or even whales. As you absorb all of the amazing scenery around you, don’t forget to stop for some local ice-cream at the Discovery Fishing Pier. Have a seat on the pier and relax next to the restorative water before finishing your day at the Comfort Inn and Suites.

Ferry Ride to Spectacular Quadra Island

Today your amazing Vancouver Island self-guided tour will bring you to Quadra Island. You’ll enjoy the ferry ride and the dazzling views of the Salish Sea before you head out on the island to enjoy its fun-filled atmosphere. Explore Quadra’s picturesque beaches, a First Nations village, hills and adventuresome coastal treks. All of that and more will make this experience a ride to remember. Later, come back to stay at the Comfort Inn and Suites.

Cycle the Greenways Loop of Campbell River

Cycle the community connecting Greenways Loop around Campbell River. Ride through forests, near the river, alongside the ocean and connected greenway spaces. The natural beauty of Campbell River the place will certainly fill your senses. Count on finishing your tour between 12:00 and 1:00PM, in time to make your way to your next destination or, stay and play here a little longer. Your tour ends in Campbell River.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for vancouver island bike tour.

Ocean & river view accommodations along your route

Scenic biking routes in Courtenay, Cumberland and Campbell River

Well-crafted self-guided tour itinerary

Visit to the beautiful Denman, Hornby and Quadra Islands

What's Included

What's included for vancouver island bike tour.

Meals for this trip are not included, however, you will get recommendations for best restaurants along the way during your pre-trip meeting.

Transportation during the Tour

Luggage transfer for this tour is included.

Also Included

• Detailed pre-trip information package
• Maps and cue sheets
• Hybrid bike (Giant Escape) rental
• Helmet and accessories necessary for biking
• On-call emergency support
• Branded t-shirt
• Branded water bottle
• Departure transfer to Comox or Campbell River Airport or back to the starting point hotel (Kingfisher Resort)

Not included

• Ferry to Quadra Island
• Getting to the starting point of this trip
• Meals or drinks
• Personal expenses
• GST tax: 5%

Optional Extras

• Extra night in Courtenay before or after the tour
• Add-on 2-hour kayak tour or a whale watching at the end of your tour
• Upgrading to an electric bike - $250 USD

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for vancouver island bike tour.

This wonderful biking tour in Vancouver Island is always run as a custom tour for your group only and depends on the number of people in your group. The prices below are per person sharing a double or a triple room:

• Price per person staying in double room: $2,325 USD per person

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for vancouver island bike tour.

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Frequently asked questions for Vancouver Island Bike Tour

How hard is the Vancouver Island Bike Tour?

We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. There are shorter variants on some days.

Do I need a Visa to travel to Canada?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Vancouver Island Bike Tour?

No, this tour is self-catering. You will get recommendations for best restaurants along the way during your pre-trip meeting.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have Health and Medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Royston to start this tour?

The nearest airport is Comox airport, though Victoria Airport may be easier to find connecting flights to.

Is the Vancouver Island Bike Tour in English?

Yes, the information package you receive before the tour is in English.

Where does the Vancouver Island Bike Tour end?

The tour ends in Campbell River, which is roughly 1 hour from Comox Airport.

Can I rent a bike?

There is no need to rent a bike, as you will be provided with fully-equipped hybrid bike (Giant Escape) plus helmet and accessories. However, you can upgrade to an electric bike for an extra charge.

Can I bring my own bike?

You are welcome to bring your own bike. It should have a minimum of 21 gears and please have it thoroughly checked in advance by a competent bike mechanic.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Canada?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Canada?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

Do I need to tip my tour guides?

Tipping in Canada is customary, but much appreciated. Ideally, you should tip each guide 5-10 CAD per day (from one person) for an excellent service.

When is the best time to travel to Vancouver Island for this tour?

The best time to travel to Vancouver Island for this biking trip is during the summer months.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for vancouver island bike tour.

We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. There are shorter variants on some days. Should you get tired you can ride in the van for parts of the tour.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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The special edition 10th issue of The Bikepacking Journal is one you won’t want to miss! It features 25% more pages with extra stories, bonus art and maps, and much more...

Issue 09 takes readers on trips through time—one to the early days of bicycles—and offers several reminders to be grateful for supportive friends and family, and strangers we meet along the way...

For Issue 08, we invited several contributors to return and pick up where earlier trips and ideas left off and also feature a handful of first-timers whose perspectives we’ve long been eager to share...

The BC Trail

% singletrack, % rideable (time), total ascent, difficulty (1-10).

• 4 Climbing Scale Fair 63 FT/MI (12 M/KM)
• - Technical Difficulty
• - Physical Demand
• - Resupply & Logistics

Contributed By

Miles Arbour

Ride and report.

May 2022: There are closures along the KVR due to washouts and landslides. Learn more here .

July 2022: There are additional closures between Hope and Chilliwack Lake due to washouts. Information on closures can be found here , and an interactive map showing forest service road conditions can be found here .

The BC Trail traverses eastward across British Columbia’s southern border. The route starts in Cultus Lake, a stone’s throw from Vancouver — where BC’s segment of the Trans Canada Trail leaves suburban pathways for dirt — and ends in the small Rocky Mountain ski town of Fernie.

In the early ‘90s the BC Trail began as part of the Trans Canada Trail project as an effort to expand the already-popular Kettle Valley Rail Trail across the province, from Victoria to the Alberta border. While the KVR segment from Princeton to Midway remains among Canada’s most popular off-pavement bike tours, this longer route, which showcases the bulk of BC’s Trans Canada Trail, with the exclusion of the Vancouver Island section and the convoluted maze of suburban bike paths in the Fraser Valley, offers less-developed riding for the more adventurous rider. While decommissioned rail trails still make up the majority of the terrain, don’t be fooled, many of these sections are rough and are hard on gear and riders alike.

The BC Trail is arguably the best way to explore and visit the many breathtaking regions of British Columbia. The Coquihalla River Trail, Kettle Valley Rail Trail, and the Great Northern Rail Trail link some of the larger towns together, accompanied by scenic forest service roads and the occasional reminder that B.C is home to some technical, rocky singletrack. Popular destinations like the the Myra Canyon Trestles and old railroad tunnels are met alongside less travelled gems like Gray Creek Pass and elevated views of the Columbia River. The route mixes a healthy dose of frontcountry amenities with remote sections that require a bit more skill and planning.

As an added bonus, a self-supported bikepacking race, known as the BC Epic 1000, follows the BC Trail from Merritt to Fernie every June in true grand depart format. Lennard Pretorius of Kamloops, B.C first introduced the race in 2016 with only 7 of 14 riders finishing the route, and saw double the interest and a much higher completion rate in 2017. For riders looking for a surprisingly challenging bikepacking race, make sure to check out the links found in additional resources at the bottom of this page.

Difficulty Rating: The BC Trail was assigned a 5 out of 10 based on the distance covered and the surprisingly harsh terrain the trails follow. Although the majority of the route is not technically difficult, there are some loose, sandy, and sections with repetitive washboard that can be hard on riders. The route has plenty of services, but there are a few remote sections along the trail that have limited bailout points, which could potentially force longer than anticipated days if a resupply is needed.

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As the leading creator and publisher of bikepacking routes, BIKEPACKING.com endeavors to maintain, improve, and advocate for our growing network of bikepacking routes all over the world. As such, our editorial team, route creators, and Route Stewards serve as mediators for route improvements and opportunities for connectivity, conservation, and community growth around these routes. To facilitate these efforts, we rely on our Bikepacking Collective and the greater bikepacking community to call attention to critical issues and opportunities that are discovered while riding these routes. If you have a vital issue or opportunity regarding this route that pertains to one of the subjects below, please let us know:

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• Subject * SELECT SUBJECT* Road or trail closure Land access issue Advocacy opportunity** New essential amenity Other reroute or access issue

**Advocacy opportunities may include bringing awareness to a new trail project, conservation initiative, access potential, or local effort that we might help with or bring awareness to via our broad-reaching platform.

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Trail Notes

• Travel on what were some of the most expensive rail roads in the world to build through some of most scenic regions of Central B.C.
• Trestles and tunnels up to a kilometre long, will remind you of the significance of the railroad in Canadian history.
• Grey Creek Pass is a 1,500m climb over 17km, only those who have reached the top recognize the significance of this small hurdle.
• Ride high above the remote valleys that link some of the resupply points together, each day brings on a new challenge and new rewards.
• Cross from valley to valley with fantastic views into the expanse of mountain ranges, rivers, and lakes beyond.
• The Balfour Ferry across Kootenay Lake before taking on Grey Creek Pass, it’s free and offers fantastic views of local mountain ranges.
• The BC Epic 1000 is a self-supported bikepacking race with a grand depart each June that follows the Trans BC from Merritt to Fernie.
• Passing through several unique geographic regions and quirky towns that provide great resupply points along the way.
• 30km of hard packed flowy singletrack between Cranbrook and Wardner via the Chief Isadore Trail.
• Do not underestimate the terrain. Although the route follows a great portion of the Trans Canada Trail, now known as the Great Trail, most sections are incredibly rough and are slow going.
• Cell service is limited and often non existent between towns which can sometimes be up to 8 hours of riding, bring a SPOT or similar communication device.
• There are wild animals along the route including but not limited to cougars, black bears, grizzly bears, moose, elk, and llamas. Bear spray is strongly recommended.
• Snow can stick around at higher elevations along the route like Grey Creek Pass and Farron Pass, these sections are usually clear by late June.
• The best time to ride the route is late June to September due to snow, as mentioned above, and grizzly activity between Salmo and Nelson.
• Navigating the BC Trail is not easy and a GPS is highly recommended, make sure you have extra batteries or some way to charge it.
• There’s no shortage of campgrounds, motels, and recreation sites along the route, many of which are labeled on the route map. Most recreation sites are free or only $12 to use, those looking to save cash should take advantage of these options.
• Some small towns close down early in the day, and will then offer no amenities even if they are listed on the route map. If you are forced to stealth camp, do so legally and away from people’s properties. And as always, #leavenotrace.
• There are many resupply points along the route, including fantastic restaurants, dodgy gas stations, and premium level grocery stores.
• I carried a breakfast and a dinner on me at all times incase I showed up late to a small town, this was crucial on more than one occasion and a good habit to get into.
• Pack a water purification system of some kind, a pump or tabs, as there is plenty of mountain runoff and small lakes along the route. I did fine carrying a 1.18 litre Klean Kanteen on my downtube and a 750 ml bottle up front, topping them both up as needed.
• You may end up staying in a remote location, far from any store, so be prepared for an impromptu backcountry campout. Do not store food in your tent or where you sleep.
• The majority of the route is rough, chunky, and often very sandy. Plus sized tires or a suspension fork is not a bad idea to help absorb the washboard riddled trails. One of the primary reasons for grand depart riders to drop out is not being prepared for the constant chatter while riding long days. C, chamois cream and proper hygiene are essential for putting in over 150km days.
• All rail grade? No not really. Expect some pushing, some steep descents, and substantial elevation gain each day.
• It is best, if possible, to arrange a pickup at the end of the route but you can pack up your bike and take a greyhound bus if that is your only option.
• Sign the Trans Canada Trail registers in Midway, the Gray Creek Store, and any others you come across, these are used to allocate funding and aid in trail stewardship efforts.

Additional Resources

• Trails BC Website
• The Great Trail Website
• BC Epic 1000 Website
• BC Epic 1000 Facebook Page
• British Columbia Recreation Site Map
• 2017 Grand Depart POV Video from Carl Miller

Have any questions about the route? Miles completed the BC Epic 1000 portion of the route in 5 days, 10 hours during the 2017 Grand Depart and invites any questions to be posted below.

Terms of Use: As with each bikepacking route guide published on BIKEPACKING.com, should you choose to cycle this route, do so at your own risk. Prior to setting out check current local weather, conditions, and land/road closures. While riding, obey all public and private land use restrictions and rules, carry proper safety and navigational equipment, and of course, follow the #leavenotrace guidelines . The information found herein is simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. In spite of the fact that this route, associated GPS track (GPX and maps), and all route guidelines were prepared under diligent research by the specified contributor and/or contributors, the accuracy of such and judgement of the author is not guaranteed. BIKEPACKING.com LLC, its partners, associates, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling or following this route.

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Ride Around Clark County: Annual bike outing returns with four updated routes

Rides offer rest stops, refreshments and help if there are mechanical issues.

Living and driving in Clark County may lead you to think you’ve seen the place. But have you ever taken a self-propelled tour of the local landscape on two wheels, not four?

The Vancouver Bicycle Club ’s annual Ride Around Clark County event, set this year for July 27, is your opportunity to admire sweet scenery, enjoy lavish spreads of snacks and get the workout of your own choosing.

“During the pandemic, many people were introduced to indoor (stationary) cycling, and that’s great, but I personally feel there’s no substitute for the fresh air and sunshine of an outdoor ride,” said Mike Detlef, a Vancouver Bicycle Club board member.

Ride Around Clark County is a fully supported bike outing. Routes are mapped out and easy to follow. Volunteers sweep the routes (in cars, not on bikes) to make sure everyone is OK. If you do get into mechanical trouble, help is just a phone call away. Rest stops and refreshments are plentiful, including sandwich bar and one beer or soft drink when you’re done (included with registration).

VANCOUVER’S BIKE SCENE

Learn about Vancouver Bicycle Club training opportunities, weekly rides and special events like the Ride Around Clark County at vbc-usa.com online.

Learn about the nonprofit, co-op Bike Clark County shop and its youth courses in basic bike maintenance as well as “bike leadership” skills (citizenship, mentoring, first aid) at bikeclarkcounty.org online.

To pay for all that, registration starts at $35 (for shorter routes) and goes as high as $70. Whatever revenues are left over are donated to Bike Clark County, a nonprofit, cooperative bike shop in downtown Vancouver.

The event has long offered four different routes for cyclists of different abilities, from short and flat to long and hilly. This year all routes have been updated. They begin and end at the Bike Clark County shop at 1604 Main St., Vancouver.

River Run (18 miles round-trip; 234 feet elevation): For bike newbies, dabblers and families with kids, there’s the flat out-and-back to Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park. This route passes through the Fruit Valley neighborhood and stops in at the seldom-visited Vancouver Lake Wildlife Area at the end of Laframbois Road. Then it U-turns, connects with Lower River Road and continues out to the Columbia River. On a clear day you’ll see mountains and ships.

Town and Country (34 miles round-trip; 657 feet elevation): Cyclists up for more distance and challenge can add a second leg — and a tiny taste of Scotland — to the River Run. After returning to base (and snacking) at Bike Clark County downtown, continue eastward along the central Vancouver streets that local bike commuters fondly call the “Scottish Highway”: McLoughlin to MacArthur to McGillivray. You’ll turn around in Cascade Park and head back downtown. While mostly flat, this route also demands a bit of climbing but rewards you with a bit of coasting.

Metric Plus (66 miles round-trip; 2,781 feet elevation): Ready for rural scenery, big hills and a whole new approach? This huge, clockwise loop heads north out of downtown Vancouver through Felida, Salmon Creek and rural Sara before veering east toward Battle Ground. After that, the loop zigzags southeast through the countryside, passing between Green Mountain and Camp Bonneville and rounding the southern tip of Lacamas Lake before heading back to base.

Century Plus (104 miles round-trip; 5,571 feet elevation): Even huger and steeper, this follows the Metric Plus route but adds an additional loop that veers north from Battle Ground all the way to the Cedar Creek Grist Mill in north Clark County. The elevations on this route will test you for sure. The mountain and forest scenery will reward you aplenty.

“People don’t realize how pretty it is up there,” Detlef said.

Stay right for safety

After running counterclockwise around the county for many years, Detlef said, the direction of the two longest routes — the Metric Plus and the Century Plus — was changed this year to clockwise. Detlef said that’s a subtle difference with an important reason: safety.

Cyclists tend to stay to the right but riding a counterclockwise route around the county forces them to make repeated left turns and cross oncoming lanes of traffic. But riding clockwise means fewer lefts and many more easy right turns from the right lane. That’s less complicated and less risky, Detlef said.

“We ended up with more right-hand turns, and we feel that’s safer,” Detlef said.

If you’re tempted by the Ride Around Clark County but not sure you’ve got the skills or the oomph, consider signing up for a training ride series or a beginner bike-safety session. The Vancouver Bicycle Club is offering both this spring.

A series of weekly route training rides will begin in May and run through June, Detlef said. Guided by ride leaders, groups of cyclists will attack the Ride Around Clark County routes of their own choosing, gradually adding distances over the weeks. Visit the club website to learn more.

For newer or returning riders who want a beginner-level introduction or reintroduction to the basics of street riding, the club will offer its annual Road Cycling 101 series from May 15 through July 17. These are weekly outings that start at 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays with safety topics like basic bike mechanics and rules of the road. After that, cyclists will hit the street for a few miles, escorted by a Bicycle Club instructor and assistant.

Concerns about cyclist safety are nothing new. They’re why the Vancouver Bicycle Club was first formed over 50 years ago, Detlef said.

“Not everyone is comfortable riding along our city and county roads, with good reason,” he said. “We’ve developed hundreds of routes that the club deems safe. They’re quieter roads that avoid dangerous intersections. The club leads rides on those routes at various skill levels.”

Check the club’s busy calendar page to find the guided ride that’s right for you. Listings include length and pace (in mph) for each ride.

Detlef himself leads a weekly ride (from midtown Vancouver to Salmon Creek and back) that’s nicknamed “The Earthquake” for no real reason except historical cycling legend, he said. In the 1980s, a group of cyclists returned from this route to discover that their stationary peers had felt an earthquake. Out on the road, the cyclists had felt nothing.

Detlef leads his Earthquake outings at a pretty brisk pace, he said (18 to 20 mph for 32 miles, round-trip). For those who want an easier, shorter version, there’s also a “Mini-Quake” (12 to 14 mph for 22 miles) led by a different club volunteer.

That’s just a sampler of the many group rides available every week.

While the Vancouver Bicycle Club is open to everyone, Detlef confessed that it’s mostly populated by retired folks who are just as eager to socialize as they are to pedal. He said he’s a good example, having been an avid rider most of his life but a club member only for the past couple of years.

“Post COVID, I think people are so appreciative of the human interaction,” he said. “I have as much fun after the ride, talking over coffee, as I do out on the road. It’s a social club as much as a cycling club.”

Related Stories

Cycling Vancouver's Seawall & Seaside Routes

Docks, Downtown, Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, West End, Yaletown, False Creek, Granville Island, Kitsilano, Jericho, Locarno, Spanish Banks, UBC, Wreck

Cycling Vancouver’s Seawall & Seaside

From Downtown Vancouver to Kitsilano, Vancouver’s seawall is over twenty kilometers of cycling adventure. And with the bicycle route extending further from Kitsilano to UBC and beyond, you can tour almost forty kilometers of Vancouver’s seaside shoreline and beaches virtually any time of the year!

We’ve cycled the seawall for years and provide maps and tips and suggestions for making your ride safe and enjoyable in any weather and at any time of the year. Part of exploring an area includes an understanding of its history, so we’ve included brief outlines of the history of each area.

You may not want to ride the whole forty kilometers all at once! From docks to park to urban paths and beaches, we’ve divided the official seawall and seaside routes into four practical sections you can do all of, or some of. There’s a map below:

• Vancouver’s harbour & docks (about 9.2 km or 5.7 mi) ,
• Stanley Park and the downtown peninsula (about 12.6 km or 7.8 mi) ,
• False Creek (about 7.6 km or 4.7 mi) ,
• Point Grey, including UBC and Wreck Beach (about 11.6 km or 7.2 mi) .

…Well, we added UBC for fun and exercise. It’s hardly a seaside route. It’s up a big hill by the ocean, so we’ve included a hike down to Wreck Beach.

Here’s a map of the routes:

Vancouver Seawall & Seaside Bike Path (dark green lines are city bike routes):

The seaside path is roughly shaped like an “S” as it runs along points and inlets. At the north-east top of the “S” – along the Vancouver harbour and docks, the harbour-side route is in three linear sections forming a long top line from Burnaby all the way over to downtown, broken by harbour industry. The formal “seawall” runs through the “S” proper from Coal Harbour around Stanley Park and the West End through False Creek and around to Kitsilano. The remaining seaside route, not a part of the formal seawall, extends a long final horizontal line through Kitsilano and the Point Grey beaches, finally ending at the western end of Spanish Banks on Point Grey.

A continuous seaside path has been in the imagination of Vancouver’s farsighted planners and citizens for many decades now – perhaps all along. The Stanley Park seawall was begun in 1917, partly for erosion control purposes, and not finished until 1980.

Other parcels of land have been picked up as they have become available. Vanier Park and Jericho were former military reserves turned over to the city. Hadden Park which is a short strip of park connecting Vanier Park to Kitsilano Beach was acquired with that objective in mind, and in 1928 Vanier Park became joined to Kitsilano Beach.

With the gradual rehabilitation of False Creek from industrial to residential land, the seawall path has been completed as development continues. The south shore was the first to be developed in the sixties and seventies.

The north shore of False Creek remained industrial until Expo ’86, and the route of the seawall was laid out through vacant lots enclosed by chainlink fence on the old fair grounds, until a march of continuous residential development grew around it from the early 90s to now.

Today the effort still goes on. The focus now is on connecting Kitsilano Beach to Jericho Beach in Point Grey. It’s a difficult proposition because residences block the way. If you happen to go down Point Grey road, though, note the small pocket parks along the shore – Margaret Piggot Park, Jean Beaty Park, Volunteer Park, and a couple of “Point Grey Road” parks lie in wait for a future extension, and provide access to the shore. As the Park Board website described it, “The purchasing of waterfront property along Point Grey Road, to open it for public access, has long been an objective of the Park Board.” But with the cost of property these days, will they ever be able to afford it?