The best gravel rides around Saanich
4.8
(9)
223
riders
8
rides
Gravel biking around Saanich offers diverse landscapes, extensive trail networks, and varied terrain. The region is characterized by marine shorelines, wetlands, rocky bluffs, and treed upland ecosystems, shaped by glacial processes into rocky knolls and undulating hills. Saanich features a mix of urban, suburban, and rural environments, providing terrain from ocean coastlines and freshwater lakes to small mountains and agricultural lands. This blend creates a wide variety of surfaces for gravel biking, including both paved and unpaved sections.
Best gravel bike trails around Saanich
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Johnson Street Bridge – Inner Harbour, Victoria loop from Victoria, a 35.3 miles (56.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 58 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a mix of surfaces connecting urban areas with natural landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Swimming beach at Thetis Lake – Trans Canada Trail loop from Senanus Island, a difficult 54.7 miles (88.0 km) path. This route features significant elevation gain and varied terrain.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Inner Harbour, Victoria – Johnson Street Bridge loop from Victoria, a 63.2 miles (101.7 km) trail leading through diverse landscapes, often completed in about 5 hours 46 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Saanich is defined by marine shorelines, undulating hills, and extensive trail networks. The region offers routes for various fitness levels and technical skills, from easier options to challenging climbs.
- The routes in Saanich are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 180 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Saanich's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.0
(2)
29
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
52
riders
54.3km
02:48
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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30
riders
88.2km
05:07
1,100m
1,100m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
27
riders
87.8km
05:07
1,150m
1,150m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
35
riders
44.8km
02:42
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The connector parallels the existing rail line as it cuts through town to link up with the Galloping Goose Trail. You can follow this part of the E&N south all the way into downtown Victoria.
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The trail dips under a mossy support structure for the bridge above. As elsewhere on the trail, the path is surrounded by trees, so it never feels super urban.
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There is a small gravel lot here with space for about five cars. This is a great spot to hop on the Galloping Goose Trail toward Victoria/Colwood or the E&N Rail Trail toward Langford.
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Portage Park is a small waterfront park tucked along the scenic shores of Portage Inlet and is a popular spot to launch a kayak or paddleboard. There’s a small sandy beach, a grassy area for picnics, and a playground, making it a great place for families.
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E&N Rail Trail – Humpback Connector is a 13.5-kilometer paved, multi-use trail that follows the historic E&N rail corridor. The trail connects the communities of Victoria and the West Shore.
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Enjoy the trails! Easy and the view is spectacular.
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The Johnson Street Bridge spans the waters of Victoria Harbour at a narrow point. The single-leaf bascule bridge opened in March 2018. At night, the bridge is illuminated in blue. This commemorates the original bridge from 1924, which was also called the 'Blue Bridge' because of its light blue color.
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At the southern tip of Thetis Lake, just a few steps from the parking lot, there is a small beach. All around you will find toilets, showers and picnic tables.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Saanich?
Saanich offers a wide selection of gravel biking opportunities, with over 20 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate paths to more challenging rides.
What are the general difficulty levels of gravel bike trails in Saanich?
The gravel bike trails in Saanich range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 13 moderate routes, perfect for a steady ride, and 9 difficult routes for those seeking a greater challenge with significant elevation gains. There is also 1 easy route available.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Saanich?
Saanich, located in the Coastal Douglas-fir biogeoclimatic zone, experiences a mild climate. While gravel biking is enjoyable year-round, the drier seasons typically offer the most comfortable riding conditions. The region's diverse landscapes, from marine shorelines to treed uplands, provide scenic rides in spring, summer, and fall.
Are there beginner-friendly gravel bike trails in Saanich?
Yes, Saanich offers options suitable for beginners. While most routes are moderate, there is 1 easy route available. For a more relaxed experience, consider routes like the Lakeside Path – Elk Lake loop from St. Michaels University School, which offers easier options suitable for various skill levels, often featuring mixes of paved and unpaved surfaces.
Where can I find more challenging gravel bike routes in Saanich?
For advanced gravel bikers, Saanich provides 9 difficult routes with significant elevation gains. Routes like the Inner Harbour, Victoria – Johnson Street Bridge loop from Victoria, covering over 100 km with substantial climbing, offer a demanding experience through diverse landscapes.
Are there any loop routes for gravel biking in Saanich?
Yes, many of Saanich's gravel routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Johnson Street Bridge – Inner Harbour, Victoria loop from Victoria, which provides a mix of urban and natural landscapes, and the Inner Harbour, Victoria – Rail Trail Along Sooke Inlet loop from Victoria, offering extensive trail riding.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see on Saanich gravel routes?
Saanich's gravel routes often traverse diverse natural environments. You can expect to see marine shorelines, wetlands, rocky bluffs, and treed upland ecosystems. Prominent features like PKOLS (Mount Douglas), Mount Tolmie, and Mount Work offer challenging climbs and panoramic views. Specific viewpoints include the Mount Douglas Summit Observation Deck and various spots offering a Mount Finlayson summit or View of Victoria.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions near the gravel bike trails?
Yes, Saanich is rich in attractions. While cycling, you might pass by the Johnson Street Bridge or the vibrant Inner Harbour, Victoria. For a unique experience, the world-renowned Butchart Gardens are located on the Saanich Peninsula, offering a spectacular display of flora. Many parks also feature trails that connect to the region's cultural heritage. For more information on Saanich parks, you can visit Tourism Victoria.
Is parking available near Saanich gravel bike trails?
Saanich has over 170 parks, many of which serve as trailheads and likely offer parking facilities. The extensive trail network, including the Centennial Trails and CRD's Lochside and Galloping Goose Regional Trails, connects various neighborhoods and green spaces, making access convenient. Specific parking details would depend on the chosen starting point for your ride.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking options in Saanich?
Saanich offers a variety of trails, some of which are suitable for families. Routes like the Lakeside Path – Elk Lake loop provide easier options. The region's extensive trail network includes leisurely paths that can be enjoyed by riders of all skill levels, making it possible to find a family-friendly gravel biking experience.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Saanich?
The gravel biking routes in Saanich are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 400 gravel bikers have explored Saanich's varied terrain using komoot, often praising the diverse landscapes, extensive trail networks, and the mix of challenging climbs and scenic views.
What makes Saanich a unique destination for gravel biking?
Saanich stands out for its unique blend of diverse landscapes, extensive trail networks, and rich natural features. Riders can experience everything from marine shorelines and wetlands to rocky bluffs and treed upland ecosystems. The region's varied terrain, shaped by glacial processes, offers both leisurely paths and routes with significant elevation gains, ensuring a dynamic and scenic gravel biking adventure.
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