Named the "Cycling Capital of Canada" by the Provincial Government of British Columbia in 2000, there is much more rugged territory surrounding Greater Victoria. Here you'll find some of the most accessible mountain biking on Vancouver Island. Both cross-country and downhill bikers can experience a rush amid endless ocean and mountain vistas with a temperate climate that allows for an extended season of vertical challenge. Just minutes away from lush, lowland forests and challenging alpine and sub-alpine terrain, Victoria has become a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Mount Work is the destination of choice for the fat tire set when they want to leave civilization behind and let fly on rocky, root-ridden trails for all skill levels. Maps, trail information and equipment rentals are widely available in Victoria – with some hotels and inns offering bikes to borrow. Check in advance for availability.
And let other visitors know about your Victoria mountain biking experience by writing a blog!
Victoria Mountain Biking Highlights
Mount Work Regional Park-Hartland
Mount Work Regional Park's trail system begins in the lush, forested lowlands of Mount Work where sweat and adrenaline gives way to sweeping views of the Malahat, surrounding valleys, Olympic Mountains and Saanich Peninsula. A dense canopy of Western red cedar, Douglas fir, maple and alder keeps things cool in those areas year round and as you ascend, the forest thins, offering a panoramic ride to the summit.
At the park's Hartland Avenue entrance, you'll find trail and topographical maps, washrooms and an emergency telephone. A trials course is located 100m (300ft) from that entrance and the designated biking area is on the mountain's east slope. Terrain includes logging roads, lots of stunts and obstacles, extreme drops and tight single-track. Popular trails include Hot Cherry, Birth Control, Centerfold, Skull Trail, Rock Bottom, Breathless, Dave's Dementia, Sofa King and Organ Donor. With so many trails in the network, you can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to over four hours exploring the mountain.
Guided Tours and How to Get to Mount Work
The local mountain bike society offers guided tours for various levels of riders including youth, introductory and women's rides. Rentals and group rides are offered from a variety of local vendors as well as trail maps. And just remember: after all that hard work, Victoria's countless restaurants, pubs and nightlife is not far away. Hartland is 25 minutes north of Victoria via Highway 17. The park is open year round but biking season lasts from May through October. Ideal, dry-packed trail conditions occur in May and June.
Had a Great BC Biking Experience?
We want to know about it! Let other visitors in on the secrets of your favourite trails, BC biking experiences, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems. Write a short blog about it and share your stories!
Learn more about:
Mountain biking on Vancouver Island and Cycling in Victoria