Experience Thrill and Adventure While Mountain Biking in B.C.

British Columbia has established itself as a mountain bikers paradise with origins that can be traced back to Vancouver’s North Shore as well as the wild trails of the interior. It’s safe to say mountain biking culture in this west coast hot spot has been shaped by the diverse landscape of its regions.

Over the years, the mountain biking scene in British Columbia has continued to thrive with numerous related events, new trail builds and bike parks. So, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, mountain bikers will find a wide variety of adrenaline-pumping trails across this beautiful province.

Ride Cross Country at Smith Creek Trails

City: Kelowna, B.C.

Region: Central Okanagan 

Kelowna is the Okanagan region’s largest city. This lakeside urban area is surrounded by alpine and semi-arid landscape, adding serene beauty to its cityscape. Beside its breweries, wineries and live entertainment scene lies unparalleled mountain biking adventures for those of all skill levels. Start at Knox Mountain Trails, a cross country network located just a 5‑minute drive from Kelowna’s downtown core.

A Kelowna mountain biking experience would not be complete without taking on a few routes at Smith Creek trails. This 28-trail network spans 35 kilometers and has experiences suitable for beginners to the most advanced of riders. Worth the short drive from the city center, advanced riders will get a thrill out of the Smith Creek Jump Line trail which features gaps that range from 5 to 30 feet and an elevation of just over 700M. Riders should plan to spend the day and take on more than one trail.

Enjoy the thrill of Downhill Biking at an Ellison Park Trail

City: Vernon, B.C.

Region: North Okanagan

Vernon is home to some of British Columbia’s newest mountain biking trails. All that’s missing is you and your mountain bike. Flanked by the city’s mountainous landscape, trails are less than a half-hour drive from the city center, including those at Ellison Provincial Park and Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park.

A must visit during any Okanagan mountain biking trip, Ellison Provincial Park offers up a choice of 25 different trails, many of which are easy enough to navigate for novice riders. The trails here are known for their declines, beautiful views of the Okanagan Lake and other natural attributes such as forestry. Visiting the park? Be sure to ride the Typical Situation, a moderate level trail and one of the most popular at the park. It’s more specifically known for its gradual climb and fast, winding descent.

Visit Rossland, the Mountain Biking Capital of Canada

City: Rossland, B.C.

Region: West Kootenay

Known as the mountain biking capital of Canada, Rossland is home to over 200 kilometers of trail. In fact, there are so many trails here that a full-time crew is employed to meticulously maintain and label them. While you might not give it much thought when riding or jumping, be aware that some of the trails here have historical significance, which includes having been built on whiskey running routes, old railway beds and miners’ trails. 

A Rossland mountain biking trip will offer up an astounding choice of 159 trails, with double-digit route options for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders. Riders in Rossland can even combine several smaller trails to complete a larger circuit or test their physicality and skill at the longer Seven Summit. This trail stretches 30.4 kilometers (36 kilometers if the Dewdney Trail is included) and features challenging climbs and thrilling descents.

Ride over 80 Kilometers of Vancouver Island Trail in Cumberland

Village: Cumberland, B.C.

Region: Vancouver Island

Lying in the foothills of the Beaufort Mountains on Vancouver Island is Cumberland, B.C. The community has a history steeped in arts and culture, but it also happens to be home to 80 kilometers of Vancouver Island trails carved out of nearby forested hills. A 10-minute (or less) bike ride from the center of the village will bring you to the start of your next adventure. Trails here offer a generous range between fast and winding to rugged and rocky.

With an incredible choice of 181 trails, it’s difficult to choose a favorite in Cumberland, B.C. Though notable routes include Space Nugget, a moderate challenge with a winding, single-track trail that combs through the Cumberland forest and Queso Grande, a challenging cross-country ride with exhilarating descents.

Choose from one of 70 trails at the Whistler Mountain Bike Park

Resort Municipality: Whistler, B.C.

Region: Squamish-Lillooet

For thrill-seekers, there are few greater places on earth than Whistler, B.C. Just over an hour and a half drive from Vancouver, B.C., Whistler offers a quick escape for those looking to indulge in the ultimate in excitement. Mountain biking enthusiasts will be excited to know that Whistler is also home to some incredible trails and a dedicated facility. 

The Whistler Mountain Bike Park is located on Whistler Mountain and is accessible by a chairlift between May and October (depending on weather conditions). With 80 kilometers worth of trail, there’s something for riders of all skill levels. In fact, among the bike parks, 70 trails make up an entire set dedicated to beginners, located in the Fitzsimmons Zone. Though, experienced riders have something to look forward to as well. The Garbanzo Zone, Peak Zone, and Creek Zone offer longer, more challenging trails with epic drops and jumps to go along with stunning views. This bike park also offers lessons and season pass options in addition to standard day admission.

Bike Through Pristine Northern B.C. Forest in Prince George

City: Prince George, B.C.

Region: Fraser-Fort George

Often considered the capital of Northern British Columbia, Prince George is an urban area just minutes away from pristine forests and wilderness. From cross country, all-mountain, or an exhilarating downhill experience, mountain biking in Prince George has plenty to offer. 

There are 249 Prince George mountain biking trails, with more than half ranked as easy or moderate. The Pidherny Recreation Site, home to 25 trails of varying difficulty, is located 12km to the northwest of downtown Prince George. At Pidherny, there are an even mix of cross country and downhill/​freeride trails, so be sure to give both types a shot upon your visit.

Whether you decide to conquer one or more of these mountain biking adventures in B.C., don’t forget to check out these remarkable attractions in Vancouver, B.C.