Mountain Biking in BC, Canada

professional cyclist balancing

Mountain biking has become increasingly popular in Canada, with British Columbia (BC) being one of the top mountain biking destinations in the world. This article will provide an in-depth look at mountain biking in BC, including its reputation, types of trails, organizations involved in trail building, and some notable trails.

BC’s Reputation as a Top Mountain Biking Destination

BC has a global reputation as a top mountain biking destination, with over 2,000 trails across the province. In fact, BC is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in the world. The province’s stunning natural beauty, including its mountains, forests, and lakes, makes it an ideal location for mountain biking. Moreover, BC’s mild climate allows for year-round mountain biking, although summer is the most popular time for the sport.

According to a report by the Mountain Bike Tourism Association, the mountain biking industry in BC generates over $300 million in annual revenue. This revenue is generated by various activities, including trail building, bike rentals, lodging, and food and beverage services.

Types of Mountain Biking Trails in BC

BC offers a variety of trails, including cross-country, downhill, and freeride. Cross-country trails are well-marked, single-track trails suitable for all levels of riders. These trails are usually smooth, and riders can enjoy a scenic ride through the forest. Downhill trails are more challenging and require technical skills, as they feature steep drops and jumps. Freeride trails are the most challenging and feature obstacles such as jumps and drops.

One of the unique features of BC’s mountain biking trails is their diversity. Riders can find trails suitable for all levels of skill and fitness. Some of BC’s most popular trails include the Whistler Bike Park, the North Shore trails in Vancouver, and the Silver Star Bike Park.

TrailTypeLocationDifficulty
Whistler Bike ParkDownhill/FreerideWhistlerAdvanced/Expert
North Shore TrailsDownhill/FreerideNorth VancouverAdvanced/Expert
Silver Star Bike ParkDownhill/FreerideVernonIntermediate/Advanced

Mountain Bike Trail Projects and Organizations

Several organizations and groups are involved in building and maintaining mountain biking trails in BC. Here are some notable ones:

International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Canada

IMBA Canada is a non-profit organization that works to build and maintain sustainable mountain biking trails across Canada. They have helped build over 1,500 km of mountain biking trails in Canada, including many in BC. The organization provides education, advocacy, and trail-building services to communities across the country. IMBA Canada has helped establish several mountain bike trail networks in BC, including the South Chilcotin Mountains Park trail system and the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association trail network.

Trailforks

Trailforks is an online platform that provides trail maps and information for mountain biking trails around the world. The platform was created in BC, and many of its features are tailored to the unique needs of BC’s mountain biking community. Trailforks also partners with local trail-building organizations to help fund and maintain trails. The platform is widely used in BC, with over 2,000 trails listed on the site.

Kootenay Rockies Trail Network

The Kootenay Rockies Trail Network is a partnership between six communities in BC’s Kootenay Rockies region. The network includes over 400 km of trails, including some of the most scenic and challenging trails in BC. The network includes trails for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. The Kootenay Rockies Trail Network is maintained by local clubs and volunteers, with support from the provincial government.

North Shore Mountain Bike Association Trail Network

The North Shore Mountain Bike Association trail network is one of the most popular mountain biking destinations in BC. Located in North Vancouver, the network includes over 200 km of trails, including some of the most technical and challenging trails in the province. The association is a non-profit organization that works to build and maintain sustainable mountain biking trails on the North Shore. The network is maintained by a team of volunteers who work year-round to keep the trails in top condition.

7 Summits Trail

The 7 Summits Trail in Rossland is a 35 km trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail was built by the Kootenay Columbia Trails Society and is considered one of the best mountain biking trails in BC. The trail is located near the city of Rossland, and riders can enjoy challenging climbs and thrilling descents. The trail is maintained by a team of volunteers who work to keep the trail in top condition.

In addition to these projects, many other organizations and groups are involved in building and maintaining mountain biking trails in BC. These organizations include local clubs, municipalities, and provincial governments. The province’s commitment to building and maintaining sustainable mountain biking trails has helped make BC a world-renowned mountain biking destination.

Other Outdoor Activities in BC

man riding mountain bike

Aside from mountain biking, visitors to BC can enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing, and other outdoor activities. BC has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers, making it an ideal location for outdoor recreation.

Whistler and Banff National Park are two popular outdoor destinations in BC. Whistler is a world-renowned ski resort that offers year-round outdoor activities, including mountain biking, hiking, and skiing. Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park and is located in the Canadian Rockies. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

BC has over 1,000 provincial parks and protected areas, covering over 14 million hectares. Some of the most popular parks in BC include Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Garibaldi Provincial Park, and Wells Gray Provincial Park. These parks offer a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Burns Lake and Its Mountain Biking Trails

Burns Lake is located in northern BC and is known as the “mountain biking capital of BC” due to its extensive trail network. Here are some interesting facts about Burns Lake and its mountain biking trails:

  • Burns Lake is home to the Boer Mountain trail system, which offers over 60 km of mountain biking trails. The trails are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Burns Lake Mountain Biking Association is a local organization that is responsible for building and maintaining the trails in Burns Lake. The association is run by volunteers who work to keep the trails in top condition.
  • Burns Lake is home to the annual “Bike Park Blowout” mountain biking festival, which attracts riders from across BC and beyond. The festival features a variety of events, including races, group rides, and skills clinics.
  • The Boer Mountain trail system includes trails for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. The trails are well-marked, and riders can choose trails that match their skill level.
  • The trails in Burns Lake are free to use, and riders do not need to purchase a trail pass or permit.
  • The mountain biking trails in Burns Lake are open year-round, although conditions can vary depending on the season. In the winter, riders can enjoy fat biking on the trails.
  • In addition to mountain biking, Burns Lake offers a range of other outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The town is located near several lakes and rivers, making it an ideal location for fishing and water sports.
  • Burns Lake is home to the Babine Forest Products sawmill, which employs over 200 people. The sawmill is one of the largest employers in the town and is an essential contributor to the local economy.

Burns Lake and its mountain biking trails are a must-visit destination for mountain bikers who want to experience some of the best trails that BC has to offer. The town’s commitment to sustainable trail-building and maintenance has helped make it a world-renowned mountain biking destination.

Contribution of Burns Lake to BC Jobs Market

Burns Lake’s local job market includes opportunities in tourism and outdoor recreation. The tourism industry is an essential contributor to the local economy, with many businesses catering to visitors who come to enjoy the area’s outdoor activities. Notable employers in Burns Lake include the Burns Lake Mountain Biking Association and the Village of Burns Lake.

The Babine Forest Products sawmill in Burns Lake is also a significant employer in the area, employing over 200 people. The sawmill is one of the largest employers in the town and is an essential contributor to the local economy.

Other Mounting Biking Destinations in Canada

Canada is known for its scenic landscapes and picturesque mountain bike trails. One such city is Victoria, located in British Columbia. Victoria is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in Canada, offering an excellent mix of singletracks and downhill trails. Some of the popular mountain biking trails in Victoria include Hartland Mountain Bike Park, Bear Mountain Resort, and Mount Work Regional Park.

Hartland Mountain Bike Park

Hartland Mountain Bike Park, also known as “The Dump,” is a popular destination for mountain biking enthusiasts in Victoria. It features more than 45 kilometers of trails, including challenging downhill and technical singletracks. The park is well-maintained and has something for every skill level.

Bear Mountain Resort

Bear Mountain Resort is another popular mountain biking destination in Victoria. The resort features over 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. The trails are well-marked and offer stunning views of the city.

Mount Work Regional Park

Mount Work Regional Park is a popular destination for cross-country mountain biking enthusiasts. The park features more than 20 kilometers of trails that wind through forests and along the coastline. The trails are challenging, and riders can expect steep climbs and technical sections.

Mountain Biking Trails in Victoria

Apart from Victoria, there are several other cities in Canada that offer exceptional mountain biking trails. Vancouver is one such city that is famous for its mountain biking trails. The city boasts of several trails, including the famous North Shore trails. These trails are renowned for their technical difficulty and challenging terrain.

Vancouver also has several other mountain biking trails that cater to different skill levels. Some of the popular trails include the Whistler Mountain Bike Park, Squamish Trail Network, and Cypress Mountain. These trails offer stunning views and a diverse range of experiences, making them ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in BC?

Summer is the most popular time for mountain biking in BC. However, the sport can be enjoyed year-round, depending on the location and trail conditions.

Are there any beginner-friendly mountain bike trails in Burns Lake?

Yes, the Boer Mountain trail system in Burns Lake offers trails suitable for all levels of riders. The trails are well-marked, and riders can choose trails that match their skill level.

What is the cost of renting a mountain bike in BC?

The cost of renting a mountain bike in BC varies depending on the rental shop and bike type. Some shops offer hourly rentals, while others offer daily or weekly rentals.

To Conclude

BC is a world-renowned mountain biking destination, and Burns Lake is a must-visit location for mountain bikers. With its extensive trail network and job opportunities in outdoor recreation, Burns Lake is a prime destination for those seeking adventure. BC’s unique mountain biking experiences, such as heli-biking and lift-accessed downhill trails, make it a must-visit destination for mountain bikers worldwide. We encourage readers to explore the trails in Burns Lake and BC and experience the natural beauty and thrill of mountain biking in this amazing province.