British Columbia is a paradise for mountain bikers, with its vast wilderness, diverse terrain, and abundant trails. From the gentle, rolling hills of the Cariboo Chilcotin region to the rugged, rocky peaks of the Vancouver Coast and Mountains, BC has something for every type of rider.
Cariboo Chilcotin: The Shangri-La of Mountain Biking
The Williams Lake region in the Cariboo Chilcotin is renowned for its stunning terrain, with over 200 kilometres of single-track trails within the city limits alone. The area also boasts 100 kilometres of trails just outside the city, and 10 acres of jumps, drops, and log work, making it the largest bike park in the Interior and one of the largest in the province. Some highlights of the Cariboo Chilcotin region include:
- 200 kilometres of single-track trails within the city limits
- 100 kilometres of trails just outside the city
- 10 acres of jumps, drops, and log work
Bike Magazine has hailed the region as the “Shangri-La of mountain biking” in North America, making it a must-visit destination for any serious mountain biker.
Kootney Rockies: Fernie Alpine Bike Park
The Fernie Alpine Bike Park, located within the Fernie Alpine Resort, is a favourite among mountain bikers from across North America. With 38 trails catering to every skill level, from beginner to expert, this park is a must-visit destination for any serious mountain biker. Some highlights of the Fernie Alpine Bike Park include:
- Dual slalom course
- Beginner skills progression park
- Advanced technical trails
The Fernie Alpine Bike Park is one of the largest lift-accessed trail networks in western Canada, making it an ideal destination for riders of all skill levels.
Northern BC: Endless Adventure
Northern BC is a treasure trove of outdoor adventure, with its vast wilderness, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery. The mountain biking in this region is world-class, with trails ranging from gentle cross-country routes to adrenaline-fueled downhill trails. Some highlights of Northern BC include:
- Boer Mountain
- Burns Lake Bike Park
- Endless opportunities for hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing
The Burns Lake area is a particularly popular destination for mountain bikers, with its friendly locals, stunning scenery, and awesome riding.
Thompson Okanagan: Epic Adventures
The Thompson Okanagan region is widely recognized as the epicenter for free ride mountain biking in Canada. The area boasts world-class trails, with something to offer every type of rider, from classic single tracks to high-speed alpine downhill biking. Some highlights of the Thompson Okanagan region include:
- Kamloops Bike Ranch
- Sun Peaks Resort
- Epic adventures for all seasons
The region is also home to one of Canada’s most technically advanced municipal bike parks, making it a must-visit destination for any serious mountain biker.
Vancouver Island: Scenic Trails
The Campbell River area on Vancouver Island offers a well-established network of trails, ranging from family-friendly routes to advanced technical trails. The scenery is unparalleled, with stunning ocean views and ancient forests to explore. Some highlights of Vancouver Island include:
- Rail Trail in the Beaver Lodge Lands
- Snowden Demonstration Forest
- 100 kilometres of single-track trails
The area is a must-visit destination for any mountain biker looking for a scenic ride with stunning views.
Vancouver Coast & Mountains: World-Class Trails
The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is the most famous mountain biking destination in BC, and one of the best in the world. With its four zones and over 80 kilometres of trails, this park has something for every type of rider, from beginner to expert. Some highlights of the Whistler Mountain Bike Park include:
- Four zones with over 80 kilometres of trails
- Professional-level trails
- Introductory learning centres
The park is a must-visit destination for any serious mountain biker, with its world-class trails and stunning scenery.
Getting Started
If you’re new to mountain biking, there are many resources available to help you get started. From local bike shops to online tutorials, there’s no shortage of information and advice to help you improve your skills and find the right trails for your level.
Conclusion
BC is a paradise for mountain bikers, with its diverse terrain, abundant trails, and world-class scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this incredible province. So why not pack your bags and come and explore the many trails and destinations that BC has to offer?