The best gravel rides around Vancouver

There are over 25 gravel biking routes documented around Vancouver, offering a wide range of experiences. These include 3 easy, 13 moderate, and 9 difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.

Vancouver's gravel trails offer incredibly diverse terrain, from flat, scenic dyke trails with ocean views to challenging climbs in mountainous areas. You'll encounter lush temperate rainforests, coastal paths, and routes with significant elevation gains, often with dramatic backdrops of the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains.

Yes, Vancouver offers several routes suitable for beginners. Pacific Spirit Regional Park, for instance, has over 55 km of multi-use trails, many of which are smooth enough for those new to gravel biking, providing a peaceful escape under a rainforest canopy. The West Dyke Trail in Richmond also offers a relatively flat and scenic 6-kilometer gravel path.

Many routes provide stunning views. For coastal vistas, consider the View of English Bay – Jericho Beach Park loop from Broadway–City Hall. If you're looking for natural monuments, you might pass by Siwash Rock (Slhx̱í7lsh) or explore areas near Lynn Canyon. The Pitt Lake area is also known for breathtaking views of the Coast Mountains and wildlife-rich wetlands.

Absolutely. For a significant challenge, the Grouse Mountain Highway in North Vancouver is a 12-kilometer rough gravel road climb gaining 800 meters. The Seymour Demonstration Forest – Seymour Trailway loop from VCC–Clark is another difficult option, leading through the forested Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve with considerable elevation gain. The Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve itself features unpaved roads like Fisherman's Trail and Spur 4 Road, ideal for more experienced riders.

Yes, many of Vancouver's gravel routes are designed as loops. For example, the Lions Gate Bridge – English Bay Beach loop from Gilmore offers a substantial 80.6 km circular ride. The West Dyke Trail can also be extended into a 16-kilometer loop using other local trails.

The gravel biking routes in Vancouver are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal views to dense forests, and the variety of trails suitable for all ability levels.

Vancouver's excellent public transport system, including SkyTrain and bus services, can get you close to many trailheads. Routes like the View of English Bay – Jericho Beach Park loop from Broadway–City Hall start from areas well-served by transit, making them convenient for city dwellers.

For families, Pacific Spirit Regional Park offers many smooth, multi-use trails under a protective forest canopy. The West Dyke Trail in Richmond is also a great option, being relatively flat and offering pleasant views, suitable for a relaxed family outing.

Yes, the region features several routes near beautiful water bodies. The Pitt Lake area is renowned for its stunning views of the Coast Mountains and wildlife-rich wetlands. You might also encounter Lost Lagoon or Burnaby Lake Wetlands on some routes, offering peaceful natural settings.

Depending on your chosen route, you could pass by iconic landmarks such as the Lions Gate Bridge, which is part of the Lions Gate Bridge – English Bay Beach loop from Gilmore. Within Stanley Park, you might spot the Totem Poles. The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is also a unique cultural highlight in the city.

Yes, for longer rides, the Lions Gate Bridge – English Bay Beach loop from Gilmore covers over 80 kilometers. Another substantial option is the Pitt River Bridge – Central Valley Greenway loop from Gilmore, which is over 64 kilometers long, offering a full day's adventure.