Scenically set amid ocean, forests, and urban splendor, the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region is among the world's top mountain biking destinations. Cyclists love the endless variety of bike routes and challenging climbs.
Squamish is the “Mountain Biking Capital of Canada,” and the Sunshine Coast and the Fraser Valley also boast innumerable trails and groups of dedicated local riders.
Ride in or watch some of BC’s best bike races. For mountain bikers, Squamish’s Test of Metal attracts 1,000 participants each year, while the BC Bike Race is a week-long single-track extravaganza. Road cyclists dig the Tour de Delta and RBC Whistler GranFondo.
The mixed-use Traboulay PoCo Trail, east of Vancouver, also lures cyclists. Those seeking a remote road ride can head to the Sunshine Coast or Mighty Fraser Country.
There are many other options for cycling in Vancouver and mountain biking in Whistler. Bike the Stanley Park Seawall or ride technical terrain in Vancouver’s North Shore Mountains and in the Whistler Bike park.
Mountain Biking in Squamish
Squamish offers everything from gentle cruisers through an estuary to downhill shuttles that descend steep rock faces. Explore four riding areas featuring more than 300 trails.
Alice Lake offers gentle trails for beginners. Diamondhead is home to shuttles and big bikes, while Valleycliff/Crumpitt Woods has a mix of technical climbing and descents. Half Nelson is one of Squamish’s newest, hottest trails. This intermediate trail features rollable tabletops, huge berms, and bridges.
Biking on the Sunshine Coast
An active trail-building community has turned the Sunshine Coast into mountain biking nirvana. The trails begin close to the ferry terminal and can be found around Gibsons, Sechelt and Powell River.
Looking for an all-day epic? Try Bunster Hills Loop (near Lund), which climbs 750m/246ft over the first 12km/7.5mi. At the summit, riders are rewarded with a splendid view of the serene waters of Okeover Inlet before descending 22km/14mi.
Want to cycle on the Sunshine Coast? A favourite route, about 120km/75mi (one way), is from Langdale ferry terminal (Gibsons) to Powell River. Ambitious cyclists complete the ride in one day. It can be a multi-day trip with stops in parks and quaint towns. Pause to admire the surging Skookumchuk Narrows at Egmont. The Sunshine Coast is accessible by BC Ferries.
Mountain Biking in the Fraser Valley
The mountains surrounding the agricultural Fraser Valley have many mountain bike trails. Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford is popular, with well-maintained trails that cater to everyone. Cross-country riders can test their lungs and attempt the 12-km/7-mi climb, while downhillers often shuttle.
Other Mighty Fraser Country mountain biking hotspots include Chilliwack’s Vedder Mountain with its fast descents; Mission’s Bear and Red mountains with their stunt-laden courses; and Maple Ridge ’s Woodlot with less-frequented trails that require steep climbs.
Biking Mighty Fraser Country
For cyclists, Mighty Fraser Country offers views of snow-capped mountains and a variety of rides. Casual cyclists love riding along paths that follow the area's extensive river dykes. Roadies can cycle up mountains and descend into valley floors. Bike through the Fraser Valley and stop at a local farm or winery. Those who follow the Trans-Canada Highway can visit renowned attractions such as Hell’s Gate Airtram and the Othello tunnels near Hope.
Traboulay PoCo Trail
The 25km/16mi Traboulay PoCo Trail is a combination of gravel, paved sections and boardwalk that circles Port Coquitlam, near Vancouver. Shared by commuters and recreational cyclists, the flat trail winds through urban and residential areas before showcasing Port Coquitlam’s parks, forests, marshes and streams.
Races and Events
Up for a mountain biking challenge? In Squamish’s Test of Metal (June), weekend warriors compete against Olympians and pros on a gruelling 67-km/42-mi course, combining huge climbs with double track and black diamond descents. Or try the seven-day BC Bike Race, which also includes Vancouver Island.
For cyclists, the three-day Tour de Delta (July) features a time-trial, criterium and road race through North Delta, Ladner and Tsawwassen. In the RBC GranFondo Whistler (September), thousands of cyclists travel 120km/75mi from Vancouver to Whistler on the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway.
Practical Points
- Bike helmets are mandatory in BC.
- Obey all trail signs and respect trail closures.
- Many communities offer bike rentals, lessons, tours, and group rides.
- Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers.
- Bikes are permitted on many transit services in Vancouver and all Whistler buses have bike racks.
- Many cyclists bike year round, but peak season is April to October.
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