 Galloping Goose Trail, Vancouver Island Region, Tom Ryan photo Learn more about cycling in:
Kootenay Rockies
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
Thompson Okanagan
Vancouver Island
Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Northern British Columbia
Cycling Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Cycle past some of Vancouver's most famous landmarks, passing totem poles, popular beaches and under the Lions Gate Bridge - along the Stanley Park Seawall. In Richmond, the gentle Steveston Trail leads cyclists through the historic fishing village of Steveston. Those looking for a challenge should tackle the climbs on the Whistler to D'Arcy route. Less strenuous but still exciting are the Othello Tunnels in the Fraser Country - disused railway tunnels that stretch along the old Kettle Valley Railway. On the Sunshine Coast, the Angus Creek Bike Loop in Sechelt is a leisurely ride offering gorgeous ocean views. Cycling Vancouver Island One of the most popular rides is the easy 55km/34mi Galloping Goose Trail that starts in Victoria and heads to Sooke before ending up in the old gold mining area of Leechtown. A shorter leisurely trip is the scenic Seaside Cycling Route that takes in Victoria attractions like the Fairmont Empress Hotel, Provincial Legislative Buildings and Beacon Hill Park. Further inland, the Cowichan Valley Rail Trail passes rivers, valleys, forests and farmland along a converted rail bed. The Southern Gulf Islands offer captivating view points and bucolic routes through farmland. Bike the Thompson Okanagan Wine lovers should cycle parts of the 455km/283mi Kettle Valley Rail Trail, dropping in for tastings at wineries in Penticton, Naramata, Summerland or Osoyoos. The jewel of this abandoned railway line, is the historic Myra Canyon, which contains 18 trestles and two tunnels. The International Bicycling & Hiking Trail meanders through the heart of the South Okanagan, offering picturesque farmland views as well as the only desert ecological reserve in Canada. Look out for spectacular geological sights in Gallagher's Canyon along the Misson Creek Greenway. Northern British Columbia CyclingExplore Aboriginal Haida culture, pristine beaches and spot bears, bald eagles and a range of wildlife, while cycling around the Queen Charlotte Islands. A road biking tour here is a journey through an achingly beautiful and remote land of just two traffic lights and few steep climbs. Don't miss the communities of Old Massett and Skidegate to learn more about Haida art and culture. Checking out the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast A wonderful variety of cycling terrain awaits on the Williams Lake River Valley Trail. Following the Williams Lake River, it takes riders through open grassland banked by cliffs, over bridges made from the floors of old railroad boxcars and a Douglas fir forest before finishing up on the eastern bank of the mighty Fraser River. Nearby is the ranching community of Williams Lake, making a great base for cycling, fishing and bird watching excursions. Big Mountains in the Kootenay Rockies From the range of full-speed gravity grinds to gentle wilderness, there are cycle trails for all levels in the Kootenay Rockies. Take the popular Golden Triangle challenge and ride through three of Canada's national parks. Stop at Banff National Park's Lake Louise, as well as Yoho National Park's Takakkaw Falls. Kootenay National Park's hanging glaciers and breathtaking summits are not to be missed, while Sinclair Canyon is the gateway to the natural mineral pools of Radium Hot Springs - a perfect way to soothe tired limbs at the end of the three-day trail. Cycling Safety Tips: - Bicycle helmets are mandatory in BC
- Lights required at night
- Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers
- Obey posted signs and keep to designated trails.
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