The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast offers cyclists panoramic vistas, rolling hills and lush grasslands. Road cyclists and mountain bikers alike will find plenty of options here.
Williams Lake offers the most mountain bike trails in the region with something for everyone, and was called “the Shangri-La of mountain biking” by Bike magazine. Those looking for an epic should go biking near Spruce Lake (part of South Chilcotin Mountains Provincial Park near Lillooet) for unforgettable remote rides.
Williams Lake Biking
In Williams Lake, an active bike club has created three main riding areas with trails ranging from double-track beginner to epic cross-country and steep and gnarly downhills. The Westside is the most popular area with more than 50 trails. On Desous Mountain, mountain bike riders can descend 347m/1,100ft, while Fox Mountain offers the option to climb or shuttle.
For a tranquil, relaxed ride, cycle the Williams Lake River Valley Trail. Pass through forest and grasslands flanked by magnificent cliffs and sweeping views of the Cariboo's legendary rolling hills.
Spruce Lake
Want an all-day or multi-day epic through grasslands, sub-alpine and alpine meadows and along lakes? Head to Spruce Lake in the South Chilcotin Mountains Provincial Park. These trails can be accessed by road (usually from June until September), but many hire a floatplane and guide. Multi-day trips are a popular option here. Want some company? Join a pack-horse-assisted mountain bike tour.
Cycle the Gold Rush Trail
The original Cariboo Wagon Road stretched 642km/400mi between Yale and Barkerville. Today cyclists can ride part, or all, of this scenic route, including sections of the original wagon trail. Visit the South Cariboo Visitor Centre in 100 Mile House for a self-guided tour brochure.
Parks and backroads offer unique cycling opportunities. Look for wildlife – bears, deer and other animals are frequently spotted along roads, especially near forested areas.
Cariboo Cycling Routes
Having trouble deciding where to ride? Explore these pre-planned driving routes for great ideas on Cariboo cycling trips – the highways and roads of the Cariboo Chilicotin Coast offer many choices for adventure.
Bike the Freedom Highway
Adventurous types can pedal the 456-km/283-mi trip from Williams Lake to Bella Coola on Highway 20, also known as the “Freedom Road.” Bike from the dry, arid plains of the Interior Plateau, across the Coastal Mountain range and into the dense, lush forests of the Pacific coast.
Cyclists should watch for wildlife, especially bears, when travelling through the Bella Coola Valley. Instead of returning to Williams Lake, take the BC Ferries Discovery Coast ferry to Port Hardy and sample some of the amazing cycling on Vancouver Island.
Practical Points
- Bike helmets are mandatory in BC.
- Obey all trail signs and respect trail closures.
- There are no bike rentals in Williams Lake.
- Trails in the Spruce Lake area are usually accessible from June until September, but this can change depending on weather.
Read Less