Road Trips

Ride Island

Photo by Zoya Lynch

ENJOY ICONIC ISLAND TIME BETWEEN PEDAL STROKES

Load up your bikes, hop on the ferry, and explore eight of Vancouver Island’s standout riding communities: Langford (home to Jordie Lunn Bike Park), Cowichan Valley (with year-round riding south of Nanaimo), Comox-Cumberland (beneath the Beaufort Mountains), Nanaimo (a gateway to Central and North Island riding), Campbell River (home to the 100+ km Snowden trail network), Parksville (Hammerhead), Sooke (Harbourview), and Victoria (Hartland Bike Park).

Island time runs a little slower here, with fresh seafood, a mild climate, and uncrowded trails stretching from coastal forests to mountain terrain.

Trip statistics

Riding Destinations: 8
Trails to Access: 1,000+
Island Time: 24/7

Langford

Langford is where urban edge meets wild adventure. Just minutes from downtown Victoria, it’s the beating heart of South Island riding and home to the adrenaline-pumping Langford Gravity Zone and the world-class Jordie Lunn Bike Park. Surrounded by lush nature, Langford is your launchpad to gravity-fed thrills and trail-filled days.

Number of Trails:

Highest Elevation:

349 m

Trails:

easy: 1
intermediate: 1
difficult: 10
extra difficult: 2

Learn More about Langford Visit City of Langford

Cowichan

Cowichan is a rider’s dream. Just south of Nanaimo and packed with legendary terrain. From Mt. Prevost’s pro-level lines to Mt. Zoo’s flowing forest singletrack and Maple Mountain’s technical rock features, there’s a trail for every thrill. After the ride, unwind with local wine, craft beer, or a dip in Cowichan Lake.

Support the local trail association making this happen: Cowichan Trail Stewardship Society & Cowichan Lake Trail Blazers Society

Number of Trails:

149

Highest Elevation:

786 m

Trails:

easy: 9
intermediate: 72
difficult: 52
extra difficult: 16

Learn More about Cowichan Visit Tourism Cowichan Opens in a new window/tab.

Victoria

Victoria blends coastal charm with top-tier riding. At Hartland Mountain Bike Park, technical cross-country trails wind through rugged terrain, offering challenges for every level. Beyond the dirt, ride scenic rail trails that connect you to Victoria’s rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods, and stunning natural beauty - all by bike!

Support the local trail association making this happen: South Island Mountain Bike Society (SIMBS) & Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Commission

Number of Trails:

Highest Elevation:

373 m

Trails:

easy: 5
intermediate: 47
difficult: 24
extra difficult: 11

Learn More about Victoria Visit Tourism Victoria

Comox Valley

Cumberland is a mountain biking mecca tucked beneath the Beaufort Mountains, offering some of the Island’s most diverse and legendary singletrack. Ride epic XC, demanding climbs, and thrilling descents, then coast straight into a vibrant village rich with culture, craft beer, and local charm. Here, every ride ends with a story.

Support the local trail association making this happen: United Riders of Cumberland

Number of Trails:

226

Highest Elevation:

979 m

Trails:

easy: 17
intermediate: 102
difficult: 93
extra difficult: 14

Learn More about Comox Valley Visit Experience Comox Valley

Nanaimo

Nanaimo is the ultimate ride-and-relax destination—just a short hop from the ferry and you're on legendary trails. From flowy favourites like Finer China to the iconic Stevie Smith Bike Park, it’s a playground for all riders. Add coastal views, craft brews, and a vibrant arts scene, and you’ve found trail paradise.

Support the local trail association making this happen: Nanaimo Mountain Bike Club

Number of Trails:

393

Highest Elevation:

1,021 m

Trails:

easy: 39
intermediate: 238
difficult: 44
extra difficult: 11

Learn More about Nanaimo Visit Tourism Nanaimo

Campbell River

Campbell River is where wild coastal beauty meets epic riding. From lush forest trails in Snowden to family spins through Beaver Lodge Lands, every ride offers adventure. As the northern gateway to Vancouver Island’s backcountry and nearby islands, it’s a launchpad for exploration, backed by ocean views, friendly locals, and pure trail magic.

Support the local trail association making this happen: River City Cycle Club

Number of Trails:

277

Highest Elevation:

1,016 m

Trails:

easy: 65
intermediate: 110
difficult: 41
extra difficult: 3

Learn More about Campbell River Visit Experience Campbell River Opens in a new window/tab.

Parksville

Parksville Qualicum Beach delivers big adventure and breathtaking views across a diverse trail network. From mellow greens to double-black jump lines, the legendary Hammerfest trails and beyond offer something for everyone. Climb to stunning ocean vistas, descend through lush forest, then unwind in this welcoming, trail-rich coastal haven.

Support the local trail association making this happen: Arrowsmith Cycling Club

Number of Trails:

142

Highest Elevation:

654 m

Trails:

easy: 32
intermediate: 72
difficult: 32
extra difficult: 5

Learn More about Parksville Visit Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism

Sooke

Sooke delivers an authentic west coast mountain biking experience, where lush rainforest, rugged granite, and winding singletrack create unforgettable rides. From smooth flowing trails to technical rock features and ocean-view adventures, Sooke is the perfect place to escape into nature and experience Vancouver Island's wild side.

Support the local trail association making this happen: Sooke Bike Club

Number of Trails:

Highest Elevation:

670 m

Trails:

easy: 4
intermediate: 18
difficult: 21
extra difficult: 3

Learn More about Sooke Visit Sooke Region Tourism Association

Island Trails Unleashed: Stories from Mountain Biking Communities on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island, British Columbia, pulses with the energy of top home grown riders like Stevie Smith, Jordie Lunn, Geoff Kabush, and Darren Barrecloth, while emerging talents push the sport to new heights. With a climate ripe for year-round riding and rugged landscapes tailor-made for mountain biking, the island boasts epic trails and welcoming communities. Recent years have witnessed an explosion of trail development, fueled by passionate volunteers, and clubs pouring in resources. Photographer Dave Silver and writer Ryan Stuart have soaked up this adrenaline-charged atmosphere, feeling the sport's evolution towards professionalism and maturity. Municipalities now rally behind mountain biking, recognizing its economic and cultural significance. Their series for Mountain Bike BC dives deep into these tales of adventure, revealing how mountain biking weaves its way into the fabric of Vancouver Island's identity. But to truly grasp the thrill, you've got to grab your gear, hit the trails, and experience the heart-pounding excitement for yourself.