10 Best Cycling Routes on Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is a cyclist’s paradise, offering diverse terrains, stunning coastal views, lush forests, and quaint towns to explore. Whether you’re a road biking enthusiast or a mountain trail adventurer, the island’s routes cater to all levels of experience. Here’s a roundup of the top 10 cycling routes on Vancouver Island for a memorable ride.
1. Galloping Goose Trail
The Galloping Goose Trail is one of Vancouver Island’s most popular cycling routes, offering a scenic journey from downtown Victoria to Sooke. This 55 km trail showcases the island’s diverse landscapes, from bustling urban parks to serene forests and tranquil waterfronts. Ideal for all skill levels, it features a well-maintained mix of paved and gravel sections. Cyclists can enjoy birdwatching, forest views, and even spot wildlife along the way. The trail is perfect for families or casual riders looking for a relaxed, scenic experience, with plenty of rest stops and stunning viewpoints along the route.
- Distance: 55 km (Victoria to Sooke)
- Approximate Time: 4-6 hours (one way)
- Best For: Easy, scenic ride
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
- Type: Multi-use trail, gravel and paved sections
- Starting Point: Downtown Victoria
- Finish Point: Sooke
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Thetis Lake: A popular spot for both locals and visitors, Thetis Lake offers a peaceful break from cycling. You can take a short hike or cool off with a swim in its clear waters.
- Matheson Lake: Located mid-way along the trail, Matheson Lake is an excellent picnic stop with picturesque views. It’s also a great spot to dip your toes or enjoy a quick swim.
- Sooke Potholes: Near the trail’s end, the Sooke Potholes are a natural attraction with deep, clear pools carved into the rock. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature after your ride.
Tip for the Ride: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and enjoy spotting local wildlife, especially at the wetlands around Swan Lake.
Rating: ★★★★☆
2. Cowichan Valley Trail
The Cowichan Valley Trail is a long-distance gravel route that’s part of the Trans-Canada Trail. This 120 km path runs through lush forests, river valleys, and over stunning trestle bridges, including the iconic Kinsol Trestle. It’s perfect for cyclists who enjoy a mix of nature and history, with the trail connecting towns such as Duncan, Lake Cowichan, and Shawnigan Lake. The mostly flat terrain and wide gravel path make it accessible to intermediate riders, though it can be done in sections for a more leisurely experience.
- Distance: 120 km
- Approximate Time: 8-10 hours (or split over 2-3 days)
- Best For: Gravel riding and multi-day adventures
- Level of Difficulty: Intermediate
- Type: Rail trail
- Starting Point: Shawnigan Lake
- Finish Point: Lake Cowichan
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Kinsol Trestle: One of the highlights of the trail, the Kinsol Trestle is one of the tallest wooden trestles in the world. Stop to take in its breathtaking architecture and enjoy the view from the top.
- Cowichan River Provincial Park: This beautiful park offers a quiet place to rest along the river. It’s ideal for a picnic or a short nature walk before continuing your ride.
- Lake Cowichan: End your ride with a stop at the lake’s shores. This charming town is perfect for grabbing a bite to eat or a refreshing swim in the lake.
Tip for the Ride: Pack snacks and plenty of water as there are limited services between some sections of the trail.
Rating: ★★★★★
3. Lochside Regional Trail
The Lochside Trail offers a gentle, scenic ride that starts in Victoria and winds through the Saanich Peninsula. This 29 km path is mostly flat, making it perfect for beginners or a leisurely day trip. The route takes cyclists through farmland, along beaches, and past local cafes and wineries. The stunning views of the Gulf Islands and distant mountains make this trail an enjoyable, relaxing ride. The combination of rural and coastal landscapes makes it a favorite for cyclists looking for a laid-back ride with beautiful scenery.
- Distance: 29 km
- Approximate Time: 2-3 hours
- Best For: Scenic, easy day trip
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
- Type: Flat, multi-use trail
- Starting Point: Victoria
- Finish Point: Swartz Bay
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Mitchell’s Farm: Stop at this local farm for fresh produce and homemade goods. It’s a great place to grab a snack and enjoy the farm-to-table experience.
- Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park: A peaceful spot along the trail, perfect for a quick break. Take a short detour to enjoy a lakeside picnic or walk around the lake’s serene shoreline.
- Sidney-by-the-Sea: Near the end of the trail, the seaside town of Sidney offers quaint shops and ocean views. Grab a coffee or explore the charming waterfront before heading to Swartz Bay.
Tip for the Ride: Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the coastline and farmlands along the trail.
Rating: ★★★★☆
4. Great Trail (Trans-Canada Trail)
A segment of the legendary Great Trail passes through Vancouver Island, offering a variety of cycling experiences. The 70 km route from Lake Cowichan to Nanaimo is a remote and adventurous ride, perfect for those who love gravel and wilderness. This section of the trail takes cyclists through dense forests and along remote lakes, offering an immersive nature experience. With sections of gravel and packed dirt, this trail is a bit more challenging but provides a true sense of adventure for intermediate to advanced riders.
- Distance: 70 km (Lake Cowichan to Nanaimo)
- Approximate Time: 8-12 hours
- Best For: Remote adventure
- Level of Difficulty: Intermediate to Difficult
- Type: Gravel and dirt paths
- Starting Point: Lake Cowichan
- Finish Point: Nanaimo
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Skutz Falls: A picturesque spot along the Cowichan River, perfect for a quick rest. Enjoy the rushing waterfalls and tranquil surroundings before continuing your journey.
- Stoltz Pool Campground: Located along the trail, this campground is a great place for an overnight stop or a relaxing lunch break by the river.
- Nanaimo’s Waterfront: End your ride with a visit to Nanaimo’s beautiful waterfront. Enjoy a meal at a local café or explore the marina and parks along the shoreline.
Tip for the Ride: Make sure to bring a GPS or a detailed map, as some sections of the trail can be remote and less clearly marked.
Rating: ★★★★☆
5. Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail
The Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail is a rugged and remote trail offering a challenging but rewarding ride through Vancouver Island’s backcountry. This 13 km trail is known for its steep climbs and rugged terrain, making it a favorite among mountain bikers. The views along the trail are stunning, with deep forests, rolling hills, and expansive wilderness all around. If you’re looking for a route that takes you off the beaten path and into the island’s untamed landscapes, this is the ride for you.
- Distance: 13 km
- Approximate Time: 2-3 hours
- Best For: Challenging mountain biking
- Level of Difficulty: Difficult
- Type: Mountain biking
- Starting Point: Goldstream Park
- Finish Point: Sooke Potholes
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Niagara Falls (Goldstream Park): A quick stop at the start of your journey, these falls are a beautiful hidden gem in Goldstream Park. It’s a great way to kick off your ride with a nature break.
- Sooke Lake: Midway through the trail, Sooke Lake offers stunning views and a quiet spot to take a breather. The calm waters provide a serene contrast to the challenging terrain.
- Sooke Potholes: Finish your ride at these natural rock pools, perfect for a refreshing dip after a hard ride. The crystal-clear water and peaceful setting make it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
Tip for the Ride: Bring extra water and snacks as there are no services along the trail, and be prepared for steep climbs and rocky sections.
Rating: ★★★★☆
6. Mount Work Regional Park
Mount Work Regional Park is a mountain biker’s playground, with a variety of singletrack loops offering both technical challenges and stunning views. Located near Victoria, this park features steep climbs, rocky descents, and forested trails. With routes ranging from 5 km to 15 km, it’s a great destination for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers. The park offers a natural escape while still being close to the city, making it a favorite among local riders.
- Distance: Various loops (up to 15 km)
- Approximate Time: 2-4 hours
- Best For: Mountain biking
- Level of Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
- Type: Technical singletrack
- Starting Point: Mount Work Parking Lot
- Finish Point: Mount Work Parking Lot
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Durrance Lake: Located near the park entrance, Durrance Lake is a peaceful spot for a quick swim or picnic before hitting the trails. It’s a great way to start or end your ride.
- Summit Lookout: Once you reach the top of Mount Work, take a moment to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It’s the perfect reward after a tough climb.
- Hartland Mountain Bike Park: Just a short detour from Mount Work, this park offers additional trails for riders looking to extend their adventure with more technical terrain.
Tip for the Ride: Wear sturdy shoes and bring protective gear, as the trails can be rocky and challenging with steep descents.
Rating: ★★★★★
7. Nanaimo Waterfront and Departure Bay Loop
The Nanaimo Waterfront and Departure Bay Loop offers a scenic and relaxed ride along the city’s coastline. This 16 km loop is perfect for a short, easy ride that showcases the best of Nanaimo’s waterfront. The route combines urban and coastal scenery, with stunning views of the ocean, Newcastle Island, and Departure Bay. It’s ideal for cyclists of all skill levels who want to enjoy a leisurely ride with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights.
- Distance: 16 km
- Approximate Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Best For: Coastal views
- Level of Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
- Type: Paved road
- Starting Point: Nanaimo Waterfront
- Finish Point: Departure Bay
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Maffeo Sutton Park: Start your ride at this lively waterfront park, where you can enjoy public art installations, playgrounds, and beautiful views of the harbor.
- Newcastle Island: A quick ferry ride from Nanaimo’s waterfront, Newcastle Island is perfect for a short detour to hike or explore. It offers trails, beaches, and wildlife, making it a great spot to pause your ride.
- Departure Bay Beach: End your ride at this sandy beach, perfect for a relaxing break. Enjoy a swim or a picnic while soaking up the views of the bay and the coastal mountains.
Tip for the Ride: Time your ride to coincide with sunset for stunning views over the water and distant islands.
Rating: ★★★★☆
8. Comox Valley Riverway Trail
The Comox Valley Riverway Trail offers a peaceful ride along the Courtenay River, making it perfect for casual cyclists and families. This 20 km trail winds through lush forests and farmland, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. With both paved and gravel sections, it’s an easy, scenic ride that highlights the natural beauty of the Comox Valley. Ideal for a relaxing day out, this trail connects the towns of Courtenay and Comox while showcasing the area’s riverside views and wildlife.
- Distance: 20 km
- Approximate Time: 2-3 hours
- Best For: River views and casual riding
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
- Type: Paved and gravel paths
- Starting Point: Courtenay
- Finish Point: Comox
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Courtenay River Estuary: A peaceful spot at the start of the trail, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying views of the estuary. Stop here to spot eagles, herons, and other wildlife.
- Simms Millennium Park: Located in the heart of Courtenay, this riverside park offers a relaxing place to stop for a picnic or a walk along the river.
- Goose Spit Park: Near the end of the trail in Comox, this sandy beach is a favorite for locals. It’s a great place to relax, have a swim, and take in the views of the bay.
Tip for the Ride: Pack binoculars for birdwatching, as the trail passes through several excellent wildlife viewing areas.
Rating: ★★★★☆
9. Tree to Sea Loop
The Tree to Sea Loop is an epic multi-day bikepacking adventure that circles Vancouver Island, offering cyclists a true taste of the island’s diverse landscapes. This 1,000 km loop takes riders through remote coastal villages, towering mountains, and dense forests. With a mix of gravel roads, dirt paths, and rugged terrain, this ride is best suited for expert cyclists looking for a challenge. The journey showcases the wild beauty of Vancouver Island, from its windswept beaches to its pristine forests and mountain passes.
- Distance: 1,000 km (multi-day)
- Approximate Time: 7-14 days
- Best For: Long-distance adventure
- Level of Difficulty: Expert
- Type: Gravel and dirt roads
- Starting Point: Loop around Vancouver Island
- Finish Point: Loop around Vancouver Island
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Port Renfrew: A small coastal town along the route, known for its rugged beaches and forests. Take a break to explore the nearby Avatar Grove or relax by the ocean.
- Strathcona Provincial Park: The oldest provincial park in BC, offering towering mountain views and stunning lakes. It’s a great place to camp and explore hiking trails before continuing your journey.
- Telegraph Cove: A charming village on the northern coast, Telegraph Cove is a great place to rest and enjoy whale watching or kayaking. Its historic boardwalk and scenic harbor make it a must-stop on the loop.
Tip for the Ride: Ensure you have a bike repair kit and extra supplies, as some sections of the loop are very remote with limited services.
Rating: ★★★★★
10. Campbell River Greenways Loop
The Campbell River Greenways Loop is a scenic 28 km ride through the forests and rivers of Campbell River. This mixed-surface route is perfect for cyclists who enjoy wildlife spotting and nature trails. The loop passes through parks, along rivers, and through quiet residential areas, offering a peaceful ride with opportunities to see eagles, salmon, and other wildlife. With a combination of gravel and paved paths, this route is ideal for intermediate cyclists looking to explore the natural beauty of Vancouver Island’s north.
- Distance: 28 km
- Approximate Time: 3-4 hours
- Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts
- Level of Difficulty: Intermediate
- Type: Mixed surfaces
- Starting Point: Campbell River
- Finish Point: Campbell River
Places to Stop on the Route:
- Elk Falls Provincial Park: A short detour from the main route, this park offers a stunning waterfall and suspension bridge. It’s the perfect place for a scenic break and a nature walk.
- Rotary Seawalk: This paved walkway along the waterfront offers beautiful views of Discovery Passage. Stop here for a leisurely ride and enjoy the coastal scenery and ocean breezes.
- Tyee Spit: Located at the mouth of the Campbell River, this quiet park is a great place to relax and watch for wildlife, including eagles and seals.
Tip for the Ride: Bring a camera for wildlife photography, as this area is rich in bird and marine life.
Rating: ★★★★☆
No matter your skill level or type of adventure you seek, Vancouver Island has a biking route that will suit your needs. From leisurely scenic rides along serene coastlines to rugged mountain challenges through dense forests, these top 10 biking routes are sure to offer a mix of beauty and excitement.
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