Mountain biking is a big part of Squamish's outdoorsy culture. Squamish offers close to 150 mountain biking trails for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Better yet, most of the biking terrain is ideally located within a 10-minute drive from wherever visitors happen to be, and from crystalline lakes to granite monoliths, the scenery is always thrilling.
Go for a family-friendly ride at the flat Squamish Oceanfront development or on the beginner-to-intermediate-rated Garibaldi Highlands Trails at Alice Lake Provincial Park. Alternatively, check out trails around Brohm Lake and Cat Lake for more challenging, technical terrain.
Downhill aficionados can try their luck with challenging single-track riding, plus rock slabs, ladders and other obstacles, at areas like Valleycliffe/Crumpit Woods or Diamond Head.
The Wonderland trail near the Sea-to-Sky Highway, loaded with ups and downs for all levels, is a perennial favourite. There are also numerous trails throughout the Squamish River Valley and its adjoining dikes.
With so many choices, it's no wonder that according to US-based Mountain Bike Magazine, Squamish ranks as one of the 25 wildest and most exotic places in the world to ride. The best time of year for mountain biking in Squamish is between April and October.
Mountain Biking Races
With its wide selection of mountain biking races that attract riders from around the world, Squamish lives up to its title as "The Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada."
The famous annual Test of Metal race (June) attracts hundreds of supporters and volunteers, featuring a technical 67km/42mi course with 1,200m/3,940ft of climbing and 35km/22mi of single-track. There's also a shorter race for kids in a local parking lot, a "Rockstar" downhill event, a pancake breakfast and more.
Some other noteworthy races include the Ore Crusher (May), the Squamish Gearjammer (July), and the Cheakamus Challenge (September), which has been going for two decades.
Rentals and Gear
Rent wheels at a local bike shop such as Tantalus Bike Shop (40194 Glenalder Place), voted the best local bike shop on several occasions by readers of the Squamish Chief newspaper. Pick up maps and guidebooks at the Squamish Adventure Centre/Visitor Centre (38551 Loggers Lane), located just off the highway.
Practical Points and Biking Safety
The Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association (SORCA) offers nine simple guidelines to make mountain biking in the area a safe, fun experience.
Guidelines include:
- Be prepared with proper equipment
- Dont ride on closed trails
- Respect the trails and surrounding environment
- Stay on trails and ride slowly on crowded trails. Pass with courtesy and care.
- Share trails with hikers and equestrians
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