Exploring Cumberland and Hornby Island with Stephen Shannon

Growing up in the West Kootenay, Steve Shannon developed an early love for the outdoors. He began skiing at age two and by high school was firmly addicted to exploring the mountains around home by a variety of means. From those early childhood past times, his appetite for adventure has only grown. His interests have led him around the globe, from racing his dirtbike in the International Six Days Enduro in Chile and Greece, to photographing races in Romania and Mexico. Recent adventures have taken him rafting the Grand Canyon, skiing in Iceland and Norway and mountain biking in the Nepalese Himalaya and Canary Islands.

Cedar bridgework highlights Munday’s Child, named after the longtime local builder. Framed by moss laden trees, this lower elevation trail is a visual delight. Trail: Munday’s Child Location: Cumberland Rider: Jeremy Grasby

Fireweed in full bloom and the Beaufort mountains lining the horizon. 50:1 is fast and flowy through one of the many cut-blocks in the Cumberland Forest. Trail: 50:1 Location: Cumberland Rider: Jeremy Grasby

Following an old abandoned railway, Short Line and Steam Donkey provide a gentle climb up to Vanilla, Truffle Shuffle, Bear Buns and more. Remnants of the railway are still hidden on the side of the trail, some more obvious than others.

Trail: Short Line Location: Cumberland Rider: Jeremy Grasby

One of the signature descents in Cumberland, Bear Buns is a must ride. It’s quite a climb up to the top, but the reward is a descent full of features. Rocks, roots, berms and flow – this one gets the heart pumping!

Trail: Bear Buns Location: Cumberland Rider: Jeremy Grasby

Representing the new school of flow, Vanilla is a go-to ride in the area. Fast and fun, it’s a must ride!

Trail: Vanilla Location: Cumberland Rider: Jeremy Grasby

Arbutus trees, with their funky red bark, are another highlight of riding on Hornby Island. Only growing in the salty air next to the ocean, these broad-leafed conifers make riding on Hornby feel more like another planet.

Trail: Outer Ridge Location: Hornby Island Rider: Kelsey Thompson

What kind of island life would it be without incredible sunsets? Hornby certainly delivers, and the Cliff trail definitely wins for the best spot to watch the sun fade away. Follow it up with a wicked descent down any number of the trails and it’s tough to beat! Trail: Cliff Trail Location: Hornby Island Rider: Kelsey Thompson

Think you have what it takes to be our next #mtbBC Guestagrammer? Email us at media@mountainbiking.bc!