Biking
Family biking in grasslands (Picture BC photo)
Mayne Island is often included in Gulf Islands cycling tours offered by leading North American tour operators.
Credit that to the island's small size, light automobile traffic, and moderately challenging terrain. A circuit route utilizing well-paved main roads covers approximately 18km/11.2 mi and can be comfortably managed in a day.
Circuit Route
Cyclists arriving on the island have two choices once they offload at the Village Bay ferry terminal – south towards the island's steeper terrain or northwest towards Miners Bay and Maine's flatter north side. Biking authorities, however, figure it is wisest to take the latter direction and opt for a clockwise circuit around the island.
After some hard climbs out of Village Bay, the road descends into Miners Bay with its coffeeshop and grocery stores. Georgina Point Road is one of the more scenic routes in the region as it skirts Active Pass. Detour here to the lighthouse for a picnic or carry along Waugh Road to Campbell Bay.
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Mayne's South end
Continuing along Campbell Bay Road and then southeast down Fernhill and Gallagher Bay roads is a rolling, slightly hilly route suitable for moderately fit cyclists. The real test of lung capacity begins just past Horton Bay Road as the route skirts Mount Parke, the island's highest peak.
Detour off Mariner's Way for a cool dip in Piggott Bay, a small, driftwood-lined beach facing Plumper Sound. Or head along East West Road to waterfront Dinner Bay Park and its lovely Japanese Garden, a memorial to the settlers relocated from Mayne to internment camps during the Second World War. One more kilometer/mile of relatively low-stress cycling brings riders back to Village Bay.
Car Stops
If exhaustion sets in, pull up at one of Mayne's 25 car stops and wait for a lift from one of the friendly local drivers. Look for the green and white signs at pullovers across the island. Cyclists are certainly welcome on an island that is dedicated to sustainable living.
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Things To Do
Outdoor Activities