The best cycling routes around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)

There are over 10 touring cycling routes in Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake), offering a variety of experiences from moderate loops to challenging mountain ascents. You'll find options suitable for different skill levels, with 1 easy, 4 moderate, and 7 difficult routes.

The region offers diverse terrain, from routes with mostly paved surfaces, such as the challenging Moraine Lake Road – Moraine Lake loop from Lake Louise, to gravel options around Kinbasket Lake. You'll encounter majestic mountain vistas, significant elevation changes, and paths through the Columbia River Wetlands, North America's largest intact wetlands.

While many routes in this region are moderate to difficult, the Moraine Lake Road – Moraine Lake loop from Lake Louise is a moderate option that can be completed in under two hours with around 500 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for various fitness levels. Always check the route details for specific difficulty and distance to ensure it suits your family's capabilities.

The routes offer stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Purcell Mountains. You can cycle past iconic glacial lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Other natural highlights include the Kicking Horse River, known for its ancient rock formations, and the vast Kinbasket Lake. For a spectacular sight, Thompson Falls is also in the broader region.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the Licking Horse Ice Cream loop from Golden and the Mount 7 launch site 1 loop from Golden are popular circular options, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

The best time to visit for touring cycling is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when roads are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. Always check local weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out, especially in mountainous terrain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from around 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic Rocky Mountain scenery, the beauty of the glacial lakes, and the diverse challenges offered by the routes, from moderate loops to difficult mountain ascents.

Beyond natural beauty, you can visit the Golden Skybridge for thrilling adventures including suspension bridges. The Spiral Tunnels, an engineering marvel, are also nearby, offering a glimpse into railway history. For dining with a view, the Eagle's Eye Restaurant at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is Canada's highest-elevated dining experience.

Towns like Golden and Lake Louise, which serve as starting points for several routes, offer various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort also provides dining facilities like the Eagle's Eye Restaurant. For routes around Kinbasket Lake, Valemount is a nearby community that can provide services.

While specific public transport directly to all remote trailheads might be limited, major hubs like Golden and Lake Louise are accessible by regional transport services. From these points, you may need to arrange for local shuttles or have personal vehicle access to reach specific starting points for touring cycling routes.

Yes, if your touring cycling route takes you into a National Park (such as Yoho National Park, where Emerald Lake and Takakkaw Falls are located, or Banff National Park for routes near Lake Louise and Moraine Lake), you will need a valid park pass. It's advisable to check the specific park's regulations and purchase passes in advance.