Let's Go Biking !

Easy Cycling Near Vancouver - the birth of a Blog

2010-05-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

Family cycling on Pender Island.

This blog started when the Macmillan family asked,
"Are there any places in Vancouver
where we can we take our kids biking?"

Looking through all the maps and books
collected over the years and thinking
of my favourite places to ride in Vancouver,
I started this blog to share rides with them
and their very young children.

Now their kids are growing up and
they are able to peddle on their own
and go greater distances...
and this blog is growing up with them, too!

As we discover more places to ride
we'll add them to the blog.
I hope you find some of these rides fun
and enjoy exploring our routes.

Maybe you will find new ways to describe them
or discover new places to ride
and share them with us
so we can go on them, too!

Here's a few of my favourite rides

for little ones to little old ladies
and everything in-between!
Happy Riding ~ Colleen

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#1 Barnston Island - Surrey, BC

2010-05-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

Distance: 9.7km

Difficulty: easy, flat

Surface and Traffic: flat paved road with few cars after the ferry off-loads
Highlights: river and mountain views, farmland, small island

Eats: no stores or services, bring a picnic
Description: Here's an EASY ride that has the extra added bonus of a ferry ride, too! It's really a barge pushed by a tugboat, so that makes it all the better!

Park on the Surrey side and ride on and off the ferry -- there's not much parking on the island.

Barnston is probably the easiest family ride there is - a great starter. No traffic -- just simple on road riding around a tiny island with nice views of farms and the river. It's 9.7 km but very easy with a flat paved surface and little or no traffic.

How to Get there:

Take Hwy 1 east over the Port Mann Bridge,

Exit at 176th St.

North on 176th

Right on 104th Avenue until you see the ferry

Park and ride bikes onto the ferry

From Maple Ridge:
Over the Golden Ears bridge, follow the signs for #1W
Stay on Golden Ears way (go under the highway)
Right at Fraser Hwy (#15/176)
Right at 104
(Thanks Carmen Hebert !)

Map: on bikely.com

Barnston Island Family Ride

Cue Sheet:

Park and ride onto the ferry

On the island, turn right

Circle the island
Stop for lunch at the park

Load onto the ferry

Option: The Fort-to-Fort trail ((ride #3) is nearby if you want to extend this ride.

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

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Barnston Island with Mason and Blake

2010-05-09T21:50:00.000-07:00

Your Turn! The Hebert Family's

Adventure on Barnston Island:

We did (well, attempted) Barnston Island yesterday. We managed to get on the ferry and about half way around, having so much fun, then BOTH of Blake's tires blew!! He kept falling and we didn't know why, then we noticed his tires. Ricky pulled about 7 or 8 very large blackberry prickles from them!! Never thought a blackberry prickle would pop a tire... let alone two!!

So, then the adventure started. I had to double Mason back on my bike, while Blake rode Mason's bike and Ricky carried Blake's bike over his shoulders while riding his own bike! We are definitely going back to do it again, though. It's so neat and so flat! What a cute little place. Can't believe I had never been there before!

Lessons learned:
- don't go on a day that is so scorching hot!
- bring a bike patch kit (we brought a pump, but that didn't help us)
- bring bandaids and some kleenex for the wounded

OH, and it took us about 10-15 minutes to get there. Over the Golden Ears bridge, follow the signs for #1W, stay on Golden Ears way (go under the highway) and turn Right at Fraser Hwy (#15/176), and turn Right at 104.

When can we go again?

o o 0 0 o o 0 0 o o 0 0 o o 0 0 o o 0 0 o o 0 0

Your Turn!
Did you try one of the rides?

Do you have a ride your family enjoys?

Big or small, we'll share them all!

Please send pictures and a short description

email: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com
Together we can gather those rides ~
Happy Riding ~ Colleen

#2 Colony Farm ~ Port Coquitlam

2010-05-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

Distance: up to you – lots of trails to explore

Difficulty: easy

Surface and traffic: hard packed trails, no cars!

Description: It's amazing how far from the city it feels in the fields of Colony Farm in Port Coquitlam. On a sunny day, the mountains are absolutely amazing. These trails have a bit of loose rock, but if that isn't a problem for your riders, then the whole family can enjoy exploring these great trails along the Coquitlam River. If you are lucky you will see herons, ducks, hawks, etc. The km is up to you - go as far as you feel like and explore these great pathways. All in all -- an easy ride!

Highlights: feels like miles away from the city, river, birds, wildlife, community gardens.

Eats – Bring a picnic or head north and follow the Poco Trail to 'downtown' Poco for lunch.

How to Get there: From Lougheed Hwy turn south on Shaughnessy and first right west on Lions Way.
Park at Lions Park.
The bike path follows the Coquitlam River.
Head south.

Map: http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/PoCo-Trail-to-Colony-Farmo Colony Farm

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet: From Lions Park follow the paved bike path along the Coquitlam River.
Continute under the Kingsway Avenue Bridge

Ride past the soccer fields

Take the underpass beneath the Red Bridge at Pitt River Road

Enter the Kwikwetlem First Nations pathway through yellow gate
At the Colony Farm fields turn right and follow the trail

Return via same route or explore more trails within the park (see next map)

Once you are in the park, there are many paths to explore. Cross the wooden bridge over the Coquitlam River to visit
the community gardens. Here's the GVRD Park Map: www.metrovancouver.org/about/maps/Maps/Colonyfarmmap.pdf

Option:

- If you want to bike ride just in the park without starting in Port Coquitlam Town Center then take exit 44 off Hwy 1 and follow #7 Lougheed Hwy to Colony Farm Road. Kwikwetlem First Nations runs an excellent tour and rental facility at this entrance. For more information: www.colonyfarmbiketours.com/

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#3 Fort-to-Fort Trail ~ Langley BC

2010-05-07T23:07:00.000-07:00

Distance: 6km each way, 12 km return

Difficulty: easy

Surface and Traffic: hard packed trail, some undulating hills, nothing too difficult - a couple of "slow-down-here-hills", separated trail -- no traffic

How to Get there:

google maps: GVRD Derby Reach Park, or Fort Langley BC

From Hwy 1 take exit 58

North on 200^th Street

Right on 96 Avenue

Left on 208^th Street,

right on Allard Crescent

watch for entrance signs to Derby Reach Park

Park in lot

Highlights: bike path, views, wildlife, Fort Langley Townsite and Museum, shops

Eats: many at Fort Langley Townsite

Sleeps: local B&Bs, hotels in Langley

Description: Sometimes there's the perfect ride -- this one is short, perfect for a family ride and the views are spectacular! The trail meanders gently through farm fields along the Fraser River. It's 6km each way, 12km return. There are a few undulating hills and the route is all packed trail composite, so it's a good ride for a confident rider. And it’s one of my favourites. Start at Derby Reach Park just off Allard Crescent and ride east into the town of Langley for lunch or an ice-cream!

Map: This is the GVRD map, you can download a larger one from their website:

http://www.itsmysite.com/cgi-bin/itsmy/go.exe?page=2&domain=1&webdir=fortlangley2

Cue Sheet:

Park at GVRD Derby Reach Park

Head east on the campground road beside the river with the campsites lining the shores.

At end of campsites, follow the posted signs for the Fort-to-Fort Trail

At Fort Langley, explore the townsite and maybe have an ice-cream!

Options: bring a tent and stay for the weekend at Derby Reach Park.

Many good rides nearby – refer to the Translink Bike Map:

http://www.translink.ca/en/cycling/cycling-routes.aspx

Summer 2011 Note: the trail has been expanded westward from Derby Reach Park along the TCT - TransCanada Trail !!!
Another great example of GVRD planning and implementing great new rides! Many Thanks and Enjoy!

Another extension: Brae Island - part of MetroVancouver Parks is just over the bridge from Fort Langley. I'll explore it this spring but in the meantime ~ here's a link to Brae Island Map.

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#4 Stanley Park Seawall ~ Vancouver BC

2010-05-06T23:28:00.000-07:00

The Stanley Park Seawall is Vancouver's most famous ride and there are dozens of people riding this fantastic route most days, especially on weekends. Once the kids are confident on their bikes
and good with edges, this is a great ride.

Distance: 9km

Difficulty: easy, flat

Surface and Traffic: paved off-road marked cycle path, can be busy with cyclists and pedestrians, especially on weekends. No railing on edge, may not be suitable for wobbly beginning riders.

How to Get there: google Stanley Park Vancouver

From Georgia Street, follow the signs to Stanley Park entrance

Once inside the park, turn right and head east.

Park in first lot, unload and purchase a parking ticket.

Highlights: lots for kids to see and do in Stanley Park! Wildlife, scenery, totem poles, lighthouse and so much more!

Eats – many concession stands open on weekends, mid-week bring a picnic - lots of picnic areas

Bike repair – at Denman and Georgia Streets.

Map: Link to Bikely Route: Stanley Park Circle map

Cue Sheet: After entering the park, head in a clockwise direction and follow the bike path around the park seawall. It is well-signed.

At Second Beach, head east along Lost Lagoon and back to the parking lot.

Options:

1. Many trails crisscross the park, consider taking these paths. Link to Vancouver Parks Board/Stanley Park map

2. Add this route onto the Seaside Bike Route to English Bay Link to Seaside Bike Route

3. Take Seaside Route to Coal Harbour and continue on the Trans Canada Trail along Burrard Inlet

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

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CYCLING CYCLING CYCLING: Metro Vancouver Cycling Map - hot off the press !

2010-05-05T22:49:00.000-07:00

Oh yes -- they just keep getting better!

The 4th Edition of the Metro Vancouver Cycling Map is available now.

The e-version is at http://www.translink.ca/en/Cycling/Cycling-Routes.aspx

This is handy for planning routes, but I hope you will buy a copy to put into your cycling bag.
A real bargain at only $3.95 and it helps promote cycling in Vancouver. Found wherever good maps are sold.... or contact the VACC:

tags: translink map cycling metro vancouver bike routes
Happy Riding ~ Colleen

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#5 Seymour Demonstration Forest - North Vancouver

2010-05-05T00:14:00.000-07:00

This is an amazing car-free ride in a GVRD park in the North Shore Mountains -- enjoy a meandering undulating road through the tall forested trees. This is a great ride to do on a hot summer's day... you will be nice and cool in the shade of hundred-year-old hemlock trees.

Distance: 12 km to the dam site, 24 km roundtrip

Difficulty: easy, but undulating hills can tire out beginners

Surface and Traffic: no cars, paved 90% of the way, the last 1km was on hard packed easy trail to the dam.

How to Get there:
To get there, go over the Second Narrows bridge and take the second exit north to Capilano College - Lillooet Road.
Go past Capilano College, a cemetery and then follow the signs to the Seymour Demonstration Forest at the north end of Lillooet Road in North Vancouver, BC.
Web: www.gvrd.bc.ca

Highlights: car free ride through the tall trees of the North Shore Forest

Eats: take snacks or picnic, no food services here!

View #5 Seymour Forest Ride in a larger map

Cue Sheet:
Park at the lot near the water treatment plant.

Head north west to the park entrance round-about.

Follow the road north (not a path).

Roadway is paved, wide enough for 2 cars.

From Seymour Dam, return back via same route or...

Option 1: Take the Old Growth Trail, an easy hard-packed dirt path alongside the Seymour River. At the dam, return via same route or roadway.

Option 2: on return, follow the signs east to the Seymour River and return via the boardwalk trails (see map available at car parking lot kiosk).

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com
bike tags: bike Vancouver, easy biking Vancouver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths Vancouver, easy rides Vancouver, cycle, bike, paths, easy, kids, children, off-road rides, paths, cycle routes Vancouver, Burnaby, bicycle rides, bicycle paths, scenic bike paths, Vancouver Burnaby, North Vancouver, easy flat, where to ride Vancouver, Metro Vancouver rides cycles paths routes bicycles, Seymour Forest, Seymour Demonstration Forest, GVRD cycling, GVRD biking, GVRD bike

#6 Maple Ridge Dykes

2010-05-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Maple Ridge is amazing for cycling -- very flat and very scenic. They are updating their cycle paths all the time and making it very biking-friendly for families. This ride is a short and easy one from Harris Road to 128 Ave at Laity. It's just a little segment of the many kilometres you can explore in and around Maple Ridge.

Distance: 7km one way, 14 km return
Difficulty: easy
Surface and Traffic: unpaved dyke, hard packed surface

Highlights: herons, eagles, boats, mountains

Eats: bring a picnic for this ride, or stop in at the Pitt Meadows Golf Club.

How to Get there: From the Lougheed Hwy in Maple Ridge, turn north on Harris Road.

There’s a parking lot where Harris crosses the Alouette River.

Head east along the south dyke, travelling towards 128 Ave at Laity.

*Across the street from the Harris Road parking lot,
there’s a hobby farm with a hog and chickens
for the kids to feed and they even sell feed!

Map:

Maple Ridge Dyke Harris Road to Laity Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet:
- From Harris Road parking lot head east on the south dyke.
- Travel east past McKechnie Road and past Sharpe Road
- Where the dyke ends at 128 Avenue near Laity Street turn back and follow same route back to the parking lot.

Option: To make a circle route on the return:

- at Neaves Road, head north along this often busy road

- at the North Alouette River pick up the North Dyke trail

- head west to Harris road

- cross the bridge, and back to the car.

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

bike tags: bike Vancouver, easy biking Vancouver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths Vancouver, easy rides Vancouver, cycle, bike, paths, easy, kids, children, off-road rides, paths, cycle routes Vancouver, Burnaby, bicycle rides, bicycle paths, scenic bike paths, Vancouver Burnaby, North Vancouver, easy flat, where to ride Vancouver, Metro Vancouver rides cycles paths routes bicycles, Maple Ridge cycling, Maple Ridge bike paths, Maple Ridge biking, trails in Maple Ridge, Maple Ridge dykes

#6a Maple Ridge ~ Pitt Meadows Greenway

2010-05-04T11:03:00.000-07:00

Along the Fraser River in Pitt Meadows BC there is an amazing new village - Osprey Village and a great new string of trails which are part of the TransCanada Trail and the Pitt Meadows Greenway.

This is a great place to ride -- it has it all... a dyke trail, trails through the woods and a place to have lunch at Stomping Grounds and buy a bouquet of flowers at Verde!

There are many options for starting:
1. From the Pitt River Bridge head south along the dykes trail
2. Start at Bonson Road
You can park at Bonson Road and head west, or start at Baynes Road and head east. Both make a great starting point. There are benches to sit and look at the view of the Fraser River, the new Golden Ears Bridge with Mount Baker peeking from behind and there's even an airport nearby to watch planes and helicopters land, oh my!

Here's a map of the route along the river:

View Pitt Meadows Greenway - Maple Ridge in a larger map

If you want to add onto the trip, head west past Baynes Road to the Pitt Meadows Airport which also has a place for a snack and coffee. And if you really want to make a day of it, you can do the full circle of Maple Ridge. (see ride #30)

Eagles waiting for lunch.

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

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Cycling Memories ~ by Blake

2010-05-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

As the November rains pound on the roof
and the bike doesn't get out as much as I'd like
I will remember sunny trails thanks to my little nephew Blake
who drew this picture of us cycling on the dykes.

(Got to love my sunny yellow helmet!)

If you have a favourite place you like to ride ~ something easy
enough for kids and families and little-old-ladies like me, then
please send it on over...!

email me at: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#7 Shoreline Trail ~ Port Moody

2010-05-03T10:34:00.000-07:00

If you build it, they will come! The Shoreline Trail Bike Path in Port Moody has been an outstanding success since the day it opened. Families come from all over to cycle this easy and fun route on a designated bike path around the end of Burrard Inlet. There are two paths: one for walking and this one for bikes. The path is well marked with two-way directions. There's lots to see from birds and wildlife, a fish hatchery, two parks and playgrounds and plenty of restaurants nearby.

Distance and Rating:
- easy 5.5 km along Port Moody's shoreline
- paved bike path with no cars
- great for riders of all ages and abilities

Eats:
Many choices at Newport village across the street from the Port Moody Rec Center, Divano's Coffeehouse (the best coffee!) located in Klahanie Village, Rocky Point Park Concession, Pajos' Fish and Chips and The Boathouse.

How to get there: From St. Johns Street Port Moody, head north on Moody Street overpass and park at Rocky Point Park.

Map: Shoreline TrailInlet Trail Port Moody BC

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet: From Rocky Point parking lot
- Head east behind the WaterPark building
- Follow marked bike path east
- past skateboard park
- past Recreation Center fields
- at Old Orchard Park, return via same route

Options:
- at Old Orchard Park, continue along Alderside Road to the end at the train tracks and return via same route.
- visit the Station Museum at Rocky Point Park.
Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#8 Steveston - Richmond BC

2010-05-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Biennale Sculpture at Garry Point Park

A favourite and easy ride -- from art sculptures to boats, an old fishing village with many shops and restaurants, three museums, a boardwalk, wildlife -- this ride has it all.

Distance and Rating:
- 17 km (but can be as long or short as you like!)
- easy and interesting, a mix of quiet roads and off road dyke trails.

Eats: Many restaurants from fish and chips to fancy in Steveston.

You can buy fresh fish right off the boats on the wharf.

How to get there: Follow road signs to Steveston, park at Garry Point, Chatham Street parking lot west of the town.
Map: link!eveston

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet:
- enter Garry Point and circle the park on the shared path
- follow bike route signs east along Moncton Street
- past the Cannery Museum (well worth a stop)
- through the town of Steveston with its shops and restaurants, pier and seafood vendors
- onto the new waterfront cycle route
- walk bikes through the boardwalks and Britannia Shipyard reconstruction and museum buildings (also well worth a stop!) www.richmond.ca/britannia
- onto Westwater Drive
- Dyke Road - enter the shared path and follow the route as far east as you wish
- past Finn Slough and its charming old boats and houses
- turn back at No.4 Road or continue to end of dyke trail at No.5 Road.
- follow same route back

Options: extend the tour by adding on the Shell Road connector or West Dyke Trail #9 (click here)
Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

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#9 West Dyke Trail Richmond

2010-05-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

The West Dyke Trail extends along the Fraser River with views of the airport, goes past the UBC rowing club, the Richmond Oval and down the west side of Richmond. You might spot herons, ducks, hawks along the way and there are turtles in the ditches. At Garry Point, circle the park and then head back along the same route. Richmond has done some great upgrades and added kids playground equipment along the dyke. The Richmond Oval is worth a stop -- there are art sculptures around the building and it's great to peak inside the windows.

Distance and Rating:
- 12 km each way, 24 km return (can shorten the route if needed, park anywhere along River Road)
- Easy dyke cycling, no cars

Richmond is doing an amazing job of upgrading the bike path along the dyke.

Fisherman's Memorial...

Eats: Steveston has many restaurants and shops, and there are many restaurants on No.3 Road in Richmond. Other than that better bring some snacks.

Salmon Grill has excellent Fish & Chips on Steveston Wharf

Cycling with friends is much more fun.

Add on a side trip to the museum east of Steveston.

How to Get There:

1. From the Canada Line Skytrain Aberdeen station, head west on Cambie Road until you meet the dyke at the river
2. If driving, park on River Road near Cambie, or anywhere along River Road, depending on where you want to start.
Click here for Map: link to Bikely map

Richmond West Dyke Trail Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet: - Travel southwest along the River Road dyke

- Pass the UBC Rowing Club

- Pass the Olympic Oval

- Head south alongside the Terra Nova Natural area
- Spot the turtles sunning between Williams Road and Garry Point

- At Garry Point Park, circle the park and head back along same route

Options:

1. After Garry Point, head into Steveston for an ice cream or fish & chips!

2. Start at Garry Point and follow the West Dyke Trail north for as many kilometers as you like.

3. Tie in with Ride #8 Steveston
Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

bike tags: bike Vancouver, easy biking Vancouver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths Vancouver, easy rides Vancouver, cycle, bike, paths, easy, kids, children, off-road rides, paths, cycle routes Vancouver, Burnaby, bicycle rides, bicycle paths, scenic bike paths, Vancouver Burnaby, North Vancouver, easy flat, where to ride Vancouver, Metro Vancouver rides cycles paths routes bicycles, Richmond cycling, Richmond biking, Richmond trails,

#10 Seaside Bike Route Vancouver BC

2010-04-30T17:32:00.000-07:00

Vancouver's Seaside Bike Path is one of the easiest and best rides in the city. It's a safe route on a dedicated bike path. There are so many things to see and do along the way.

Here's the route from Vanier Park in Kitsilano along False Creek to English Bay, around Stanley Park and over to Coal Harbour.

View #10 Seaside Bike Route Vancouver BC in a larger map

For beginning riders the whole route is long so I've split the ride into 4 easy and fun loops. Do one or combine them in many ways. Have fun discovering many interesting things along the route!

#10a Seaside Bike Route 1: Kitsilano Beach to Science World

The Birds by Myfanwy Macleod

Distance: 5km each way, 10km return on a paved, separated bike path

How to Get Here:

- To start at Kitsilano Beach, park near the swimming pool or on Chestnut Street.

- To start at Science World, take the Skytrain to Main Street/Science World Station and pick up trail in front of the big dome, or parking is available at Quebec and Terminal Ave.

Eats: There are many restaurants along the way and at Granville Island.
Map: Bikely Map

Seaside: Kits Beach to Science World Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet:
- From Science World the Bike Route is well signed.
- At the Millenium Olympic Village explore the Salt Building, see the Giant Sparrows, explore the park
- Go under the Cambie Bridge, along False Creek to Granville Island
- Take Old Bridge Road and explore the island or continue west along the pathway
- Go under the Burrard Street Bridge
- Near Bard on the Beach Tents listen -- there's an eagle nest in one of the trees
- Vanier Park - kites flying?
- Maritime Museum - take a short trip to see the wooden boats on display
- Planetarium on the left - make a circle around to see the crab statue out front
- at Kitsilano Beach, explore the park and then return via same route.

#10b Seaside Bike Route 2: Science World to Second Beach

Distance and Description: 6km each way, 12km return

Paved, separated bike path

How to Get Here:

1. Starting at Science World - take the Skytrain to Main Street/Science World Station and pick up trail in front of the big dome, or parking is available at Quebec and Terminal Ave. Head west along the Seaside Bike Route.

2. To start from Stanley Park, take the road to Second Beach and park nearby. Head east along the seaside path.

Note: can tie this section in with Ride #4 Stanley Park Loop)

Eats: There are many restaurants and food trucks along the way and at Denman Street and also Granville Island.

Map: on Bikely maps

Seaside North - Science World to Second Beach

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet: From Science World the Bike Route is well signed.

- Head north following the pathway and then west along False Creek, watch for route changes near the Casino

- go along Marinaside Way and Cooper's Park

- (option: take the Cycle Ferry from the bottom of Hornby Street)

- ride under the Burrard Street Bridge past Sunset Beach and the Inukshuk at English Bay

- at Chilco detour north one block to visit the Heron colony beside the tennis courts

- go back to the bike path and cycle towards Second Beach.

- Option: continue on the Stanley Park Bike Path #4 from Second Beach around the park

- follow same route back to Science World or cross False Creek on the Cycle Ferry at Hornby Street

#10c Seaside Bike Route 3: False Creek Circle

It's always satisfying to make a circle route. This one combines the previous two rides into one circle with an added bonus of a ferry ride.

How to Get Here:

- To start at Science World, take the Skytrain to Main Street/Science World Station and pick up trail in front of the big dome, or parking is available at Quebec and Terminal Ave. Head west along the Seaside Bike Route.

Map: http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Seaside-False-Creek-Circle

Seaside: False Creek Circle Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet:
From Science World the Bike Route is well signed.

- Head north following the pathway and then west along False Creek

- Watch for route changes near Casino

- go along Marinaside Way and Cooper's Park

- at Hornby Street board the Cycle Ferry for a trip to Granville Island

- explore the island pathways, then head south on Old Bridge Road

- turn east on Island Park Walk

- follow the marked pathway past Leg In Boot Square

- ride under the Cambie Street bridge

- at the Millenium Olympic Village explore the Salt Building, Giant Sparrows and the parks here.

- ride back to Science World

#10d Seaside Bike Route 4: Kitsilano to Jericho Beach

Jericho park is large, full of trails and fields and it's fun to explore all the pathways here. Ride the bike path west along the beaches then at Spanish Bank Beach turn around and enjoy the fantastic view of the city.

City view from Jericho Beach

This leg of the route takes you to the largest stretch of beaches in the city. The first part of the bike path follows the shoreline but at Trafalgar there is a detour up a steep hill and through residential streets. For an easier route consider parking at Jericho Beach and cycling from there. There is a parking lot at the west end of Point Grey Road.

How to Get Here:

- To start at Kitsilano Beach, park near the swimming pool or on Chestnut Street.

- To start at Jericho Beach, park in the lot near the Jericho Yacht Club at the west end of Point Grey Road.

Map: http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/Seaside-Kits-to-Jericho-Beach

easide - Kits to Jericho Beach

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Cue Sheet: - From Kitsilano Beach follow the Seaside Bike route signs
- Head west out of the park and onto Point Grey Road
- At Trafalgar, head south up the steep hill (that's the worst of it, only a few blocks)

- Right on West 3rd Street

- Follow bike route signs, path jogs through a community center and into Jericho Park. Travel along the beach or explore the park's many trails

- at Sunset Beach Park (where shoreline ends and meets busy road) turn back and follow same route enjoying the city views!

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

tags: bike Vancouver, easy biking Van

couver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths Vancouver, easy rides Vancouver, cycle, bike, paths, easy, kids, children, off-road rides, paths, cycle routes Vancouver, Burnaby, bicycle rides, bicycle paths, scenic bike paths, Vancouver Burnaby, North Vancouver, easy flat, where to ride Vancouver, Metro Vancouver rides cycles paths routes bicycles

#11 Central Valley Greenway

2010-04-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

They keep building them and we keep riding them! Here's an awesome flat, safe and easy ride from New Westminster to Vancouver travelling through Coquitlam and Burnaby, too.

Translink's Website has amazing maps and pictures of the CVG, go there for the overview: Translink Greenway page

Near Still Creek Burnaby

And then click on the link Take a No Sweat Tour. It takes you to the Buzzer Blog for a totally amazing portrait of the CVG.

Central Valley Greenway Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge

Wildflowers in the city

Art along the way - and useful Art at that !

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Map: Bikely link
How to Get There:

1. Take the Skytrain to Braid Street Station, then follow the CVGreenway signs west

2. From Lougheed Hwy, head south along North Road to Hume Park. Start the path there.

Along the Brunette River in Burnaby

Cue Sheet:

- From Hume Park head west, follow the CVG signs along the Brunette River

- Options: at Burnaby Lake Park, choose to follow the CVG along Winston Street or go into the park for a walk to see the ducks!

- leaving Burnaby Lake Park, head north on the closed section of Sperling Street, travel over the new pedestrian bridge.

- Options: cycle back along Winston Street to the car at Hume Park or take the skytrain to Braid Station.

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#12 Iona Spit and Jetty - Richmond BC

2010-04-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

Just north of the Vancouver Airport is an easy ride with a combo of dyke, road and would you believe it - a 4km jetty into the ocean! There's views of jets landing and taking off, herons and cormorants fishing, a beach, picnic tables, a boat launch and it's all flat!

How to Get There:

- Take the Canada Line and get off at Templeton Station
- Or if driving, go towards Vancouver Airport and turn north on Templeton.

For a longer ride, park near the Templeton Station.

For a shorter ride, continue driving west on Grauer then Ferguson and follow the signs to Iona Beach Park.

Short Ride: Iona Jetty 4km out + 4km back = an 8km ride

- For beginning riders, I suggest starting at Iona Beach Park and riding only the jetty 4km to the end and back. The surface is gravel and not as smooth as I'd like for starters, but it's an interesting place to spend an hour or two. There's lots of jets landing and taking off, the cormorants are fishing and you'll probably spot a heron or two. At the park there's a marsh with ducks, a field with wildflowers, picnic tables and washrooms, too.

Longer Ride - Cue Sheet:

This 24km ride had lots of variation - dykes, parks, and some road riding with narrow or no shoulders.

- start by biking east on Grauer Road
- west on North Dyke Road to MacDonald Beach Park

- south on MacDonald
- west on Ferguson alongside the airport (lots going on here) and this section is on the road with no shoulders for a bit. It might be okay on the weekend, but mid-week we had big trucks 'sharing' the road (yikes)

- follow the shoreline to Iona Beach Park (Metro Vancouver)

- ride the jetty 4km out to the end and back!

- for the ride back there's a short trail with amazing grasses alongside Ferguson Road where it meets MacDonald.

Views out to Vancouver Island and a place to have lunch.

Iona Jetty Richmond BC

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Here's the map on bikely: Bikely link

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com
bike tags: bike Vancouver, easy biking Vancouver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths Vancouver, easy rides Vancouver, cycle, bike, paths, easy, kids, children, off-road rides, paths, cycle routes Vancouver, Burnaby, bicycle rides, bicycle paths, scenic bike paths, Vancouver Burnaby, North Vancouver, easy flat, where to ride Vancouver, Metro Vancouver rides cycles paths routes bicycles, Iona GVRD Park, GVRD Vancouver, GVRD Richmond, Iona Jetty

#13 Railway Trail - Stave and Hayward Lake - Mission BC

2010-04-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

O Vancouver in the sunshine

O Spring a month early!

I found myself exploring near Mission BC

and Stave Lake

A lot of people ask for trails

for families and beginner riders.

Here's a trail for all ages and abilities.

It starts out flat, following an old rail bed

This ride makes a great family day: a bike ride and history lesson all in one. Park at the Stave Falls BC Hydro Visitor Center and enjoy a tour of the historic dam and power generating facility, then climb on your bikes for an easy ride!

Part way along the lake an old railway bridge is washed out and the detour is like a roller coaster. I was getting short of time and decided to turn back here, but next time I will push my bike over this detour and continue down the lake. This might be a good family turn-around spot if you have little ones that don't do well on hills yet !

Here's the map in MapMyRide:

Railway Trail - Stave Falls + Hayward Lake Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

Link to route map on Bikely

Where is Stave Falls? Link to Google Maps

Link to BC Hydro Stave Falls Visitor Center

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

bike Vancouver, easy biking Vancouver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths Vancouver, easy rides Vancouver, cycle, bike, paths, easy, kids, children, off-road rides, paths, cycle routes Vancouver, Burnaby, bicycle rides, bicycle paths, scenic bike paths, Vancouver Burnaby, North Vancouver, easy flat, where to ride Vancouver, Metro Vancouver rides cycles paths routes bicycles

#14 Whistler Valley Trail

2010-04-25T07:32:00.000-07:00

Whistler has an amazing network of trails running through the valley. The Tourist Information kiosks have the best map of the trails, but everything is well-marked and you will be able to find your way with the signposts or asking for directions.

An easy ride for beginners:
Start from the village and ride west through Whistler Cay following the signs to to Rainbow Park. There's lots to do at the park -- playground, picnic tables, swim in the lake.

If you're looking for a longer ride, ride north to Green Lake and then west to Meadow Park. The trails loop and circle and you'll have fun exploring these mostly flat rides.

For the more adventurous there are many mountain bike trails higher up the hillsides. They are colour-coded for difficulty.

yellow= paved valley trails

green = mountain bike easy

blue = intermediate

black = difficult

Map available from Whistler Tourist Information:

Where we went...

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

bike tags: Whistler Valley Trail, bike Whistler, cycling Whistler, family biking near Vancouver, easy biking near Vancouver, family cycling, easy bike path, Valley Trail bike path Whistler BC

#15 S - L - O - W Food Cycle Tours

2010-04-24T09:46:00.000-07:00

Slow Food Cycle tours were amazingly popular last summer and they are getting better each year.

What's Slow Food?
Simply -- it's the opposite of Fast Food.
Home grown, home cooked and eaten slowly.

And better yet - you can ride your bike to check it out.
Local farmers sell their products and show you their world!
There's cows and veggies ... and so much more.

Load up the bikes, take a tent and stay in a camp ground

or hotel it and enjoy a family touring weekend.

All routes are flat and easy, with maps and signs.

To sign up for the email list and to find out when this year's rides will happen: Slow Food Cycle Tours

See you there!
Chilliwack ~ will post dates when announced
Agassiz
Pemberton Valley
Comox Valley
Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

bike tags: Slow Food Cycle Tours, easy biking near Vancouver, farm tour cycle trips, family cycling in the Fraser Valley, Slow Food Pemberton, Slow Food Agassiz, Slow Food Chilliwack, Slow Food Comox, fun family cycling Vancouver, where to ride Vancouver, farmer's markets rides t

Agassiz Slow Food Farm Tour

2010-04-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Families love Slow Food Vancouver's farm tours.
Last year

Here's a link: http://www.slowfoodvancouver.com/index.php/AgassizTour/

#16 Myra Canyon . KVR . Kettle Valley Railway ~ Kelowna BC

2010-04-22T23:47:00.000-07:00

Oh it's great to get away on a bike trip, especially with one of my favourite riding families....

This summer we set out to find family-friendly easy rides in BC. Here we are exploring the Myra Canyon Trestles on part of the Kettle Valley Railway near Kelowna, BC.

The Macmillan family exploring the trestles at the KVR's Myra Canyon.

The trail is high above Kelowna BC and accessible from the west or east side of the trestles. I suggest you follow the directions to the Myra Station side on the east. Your group can then cover as many trestles as your time allows and then you can turn back and return to your car when the little legs have had enough.

Here's the KVR website Map and Directions
And here's their map:

Add caption

Our GPS track: Map available on Bikely

This historic railway route is flat and hard-packed gravel and is "one of the most scenic sections of the Kettle Valley Railway. In just over 8 km there are 16 wood trestles, 2 steel bridges, and 2 tunnels." More info at: http://www.kelownabc.com/kvr/

We walked across a few of the trestles until we felt sure of ourselves and by the end of the ride were ready for ice-cream cones! Some of the highlights of the day:

Rock Ovens

Riding the old train track - Whoo Whoo!

Two tunnels !!!

We hope you have as much fun as we did!

If you build it, we will come!

Many thanks to the volunteers who created this great bike route for riders of all ages and sizes, especially to those who rebuilt the trail after the forest fires of 2003.

For more information, see myratrestles.com

To ride an operating section of the KVR: kettlevalleyrail.org

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

bike tags:
cycling Myra Canyon, bike Myra Canyon, Kettle Valley Railway biking, cycle Kettle Valley Railway, bike KVR, cycle KVR, easy cycling Kelowna BC, where to bike near Vancouver, easy cycling near Vancouver

#17 North Shore Spirit Trail - Moodyville to Dundarave

2010-04-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

That's the Spirit ... Trail !

Trail starts near the Grain Elevators west of the 2nd Narrows Bridge.

Today I rode an amazing route: the first completed (well, almost) section of the North Shore Spirit Trail. Planned to one day link the communities from Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove, it is both a commuter route and a multi-use recreational trail. People can walk, jog, cycle, skate or wheel along the 35 kilometre route. It is safe for everyone, and fun for families with little riders! The pathway is safe, set aside from the road and wide enough for all to share.

Vancouver City and freighters waiting to load.

The project is an astounding collaboration between the communities of West Vancouver, First Nations, North Vancouver, Translink, Federal and Provincial Governments. Minister of Transportation Blair Lekstrom says, "We're committed to investing in community cycling projects to support a healthier lifestyle for families, by encouraging outdoor activities that are fun and inexpensive."

If the crowds of people I saw on the trail today is any indication, the goal has been met. What a vision they have, building this trail for generations to come. I can't wait for them to build the rest of the trail !!!

Hurry up and build it !!! I'm ready to roll.

North Vancouver's newest park, alongside Lonsdale Quay

There are so many things for kids and families to explore and enjoy, especially just east of Lonsdale Quay. Here are a few highlights from today's ride: Click here for more pictures in Flickr

View Spirit Trail - Moodyville to Dundarave 2011 in a larger map

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

bike tags: Spirit Trail North Vancouver, Spirit Trail West Vancouver, easy biking near Vancouver, easy cycling Vancouver, easy bike paths North Vancouver, where to ride Vancouver, bike North Vancouver, bike West Vancouver, bike Squamish Nation

#18 BC Parkway 7-11 Skytrain Trail

2010-04-20T12:05:00.000-07:00

For a great city ride along the old Interurban train tracks through New Westminster, Burnaby and Vancouver, try the BC Parkway 7-11 SkyTrain Trail. This route is fairly flat, follows the SkyTrain route past MetroTown Center and alongside Central Park. You can peek into back yards and there's interesting art and views along the way. Some of the 7-11 trail signage seems to have disappeared over the years but I've heard that this route is scheduled for an update. A bonus to this ride: you can start in New Westminster or Vancouver and then ride the SkyTrain back to your start point -- a very handy thing when one has tired kiddies or if rain hits unexpectedly!

Commercial Drive is a great place to have lunch. There is no bike lane on The Drive (something I hope will be addressed by council) so it is a bit nerve racking if you have kiddies with you.

Some of my favourites eating spots are: The Little Nest on Charles at Commercial - great food and coffee and lots of parents and kids to watch. Sweet Cherubim makes the best salad and vegie dishes, Brittania Sushi for delicious sashimi and JJ Bean for coffee and a grilled cheese sandwich. If you fit in this tour at dinner-time, I highly recommend Carthage Cafe or Havanas for a good coffee + food + art gallery, or BierCraft for beer and mussels. Of course there is so much more on The Drive!

After lunch you can cycle back along the BC Parkway 7-11 SkyTrain Trail and retrace your route -- it all looks different when you're heading in another direction.

Or -- if you've had enough or it's threatening to rain, then just hop aboard the Skytrain. (Remember - no bikes on the Skytrain during Rush Hour.)

All in all -- a great route. 12.6 km one way or 25 km return, fairly flat and easy.

View 7-11 BC Parkway to The Drive in a larger map

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#19 Fraser Lands

2010-04-19T12:15:00.000-07:00

One day the parks all along the Fraser River will be linked together. (Experience Fraser Project)

This ride explores two sections -- Fraser Foreshore Park in Burnaby and Fraser Lands in Vancouver. The route follows the Fraser River shoreline with many views of tugboats, barges and log booms.

There are places to stop and get close to the river. There will be a new housing development starting soon - River District and that will provide more services and extend the trail. At the moment there is Romer's Burger Bar at the foot of Kerr Street or you can bring a picnic lunch and watch the river traffic go by.

To access the park from the east side, follow Marine Drive to Byrne and head south to the end of Byrne. There's parking there at the entrance to the park. Head west, following the bike path signs all along the river to just east of Argyle Street.

On the route back you can return via the same tracks or follow the Kerr Street bike route.

ADD ON: Just east of Byrne Road is a small connection to the park which you can add onto the route...
(Note: sometimes I park on Riverbend Drive and do the whole route from there and another extension is to start at the 22nd Street Skytrain Station and loop from there.)

Fraser Foreshore Park Information

Download GPX from Map My Ride

View Fraser Shores 2012 in a larger map

Happy Riding ~ Colleen

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#20 Fraser River Park

2010-04-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

This tiny pocket park on the Fraser River is located at 8705 Angus Drive at W.75th Avenue. One day this park will link up and be part of the 300 km Fraser Experience. (More here)

This park celebrates the industrial activities that were once situated on the site. There is a kiosk with large photographs which tell the history of the area.

It is a very small park, better suited for walking, but a good beginners site. There is a boardwalk along the shoreline, small sandy beaches and much to see.

View Fraser River Park in a larger map

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#21 Fraser River Trail

2010-04-17T17:30:00.000-07:00

Fraser here, Fraser there

Fraser Fraser Everywhere

There are many short sections of the Fraser River Experience (read more here). Today's ride is Vancouver's farthest west section - in Vancouver's Southlands, a rural area near UBC and the Musqueam Nation.

The Fraser River Trail was built as a horse trail by local equestrians and it's polite to yield to horses and riders along the trail. Some parts have been upgraded, but the trail is mostly hard packed dirt and fine for riding.

Vancouver's Rural Southlands

We started at the foot of Carnarvon Street at Celtic Avenue and headed east until we saw the trail sign. There is a small section heading east along the golf course. We did this part first and then turned back and head west all along the Fraser River shoreline.

Start of the Fraser River Trail - yield to horses and golf balls !

There's alot of art along the route -- mostly about the history of the area -- it was a key industrial part of the riverway for years.

Art along the route

At Deering Island there is a small park that is a good place to have a picnic lunch. Follow the trail west from Deering Island (this part may be a bit muddy) as it goes past the golf course then heads north along Musqueam Creek - an area that is in the process of being restored as a salmon bearing habitat.

We visited the Musqueam lands and saw the just-moved First Nations building from the 2010 Winter Olympics. There is a small section of trail that goes into the golf course, but the trail back to the shoreline is blocked and difficult to get through (lots of blackberries). Try it if you like or head back on the same route returning to the start point.

All in all an amazing part of Vancouver that
many people don't know about!

View Fraser River Trail in a larger map

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#22 Matsqui Trail ~ Abbotsford

2010-04-16T18:56:00.000-07:00

A flat and easy ride on the Fraser River is the Matsqui Trail Regional Park. It's and easy __ km ride on a well-maintained dyke with views of the river and surrounding farmlands. A bonus ~ this pathway is part of the TransCanada Trail and you can extend your ride east or west of the park.

There are picnic tables and washrooms so bring a lunch along or... stop by Clayburn Village and have lunch at the Clayburn Store.(ps - their scones are amazing!)

I am so impressed with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks and their focus on cycling as part of a great park experience -- Way to Go Metro! Here's the link to their map of Matsqui Trail Regional Park.

Cycling on the Matsqui Trail

Clayburn Store - Matsqui Prairie Abbotsford

The Clayburn store has many home made items to choose from.

#23 Ridgeway Greenway - Cycling and Art Exploring

2010-04-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Look around you as you ride...and look up ! There's art everywhere.

Vancouver's Ridgeway Greenway is a linear exploration of a string of parks, walkways and seating areas, and amazing public art.

Start at the Patterson Skytrain station at Central Park in Burnaby and explore a few of the trails in the park. You could spend alot of time in this park, just meandering at 10km per hour (of course) and seeing the ducks.

Today was Art Exploration Day. With the book Public Art in Vancouver by John Steil and Aileen Stalker, I set out to discover Vancouver's Public Art. This book is a great resource, full of information of each of the pieces. Another great site: Vancouver Public Art website.

At the north west corner of the park there is a small plaza near the overpass with a few pieces of art, then head south along the Terry Fox path to the start of the Ridgeway Greenway at 45th Street.

These pieces are in and near Kensington Park - Knight Street at 34th Avenue

Visiting Mountain View Cemetery

Art along the Ontario Bike Route

Queen Elizabeth Park - the art of gardening and views.

Here's a link to Google Maps...
Green pins mark some of the Art along the route.

View Ridgeway Greenway Vancouver + Public Art Dec 2011 in a larger map

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#24 Minnekhada - looking for Bears!

2010-04-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

Minnekhada was once the hunting lodge of Eric Hamber, Lieutenant Governor of BC in the early 1900s. It is now a popular park in the corner of Coquitlam (see link: Minnekhada info ).

This ride starts at LaFarge Lake in Coquitlam, follows the TransCanada Trail along the Coquitlam River though Port Coquitlam to the DeBoughville Slough at the Pitt River.

The dyke circles many blueberry fields and there are often bears in the area in summer and early fall. Most viewing can be done safely from the dyke overlooking the fields. Be cautious when cycling along Oliver Road past Minnekhada Lodge as bears often meander across this road.

Use binoculars to see the bears feeding
in the fields - far from the dyke

Don't worry -- taken with a zoom lens...across the ditch

We didn't expect to see bears right near Hyde Creek Center
and we had to bike off the trail and watch from a distance
as the mother bear and two cubs passed by.

A zoom lens makes the bears look closer than they actually were!

Bears eating blueberries.

There is much more to see than bears at Minnekhada. In winter the mountains are dusted with snow and in spring
and summer it is nice to sit along the pathway on the Pitt River.

A heron stands at water's edge.
You can also see hawks, eagles,
cormorants, osprey,
and crows ... of course!

Here is the GoogleMap: http://g.co/maps/upp5g

Full route: 23 km, easy flat riding on dyke trails.

.......................................................

Minnekhada Circle Route:

For a shorter version of this ride start at Victoria and Cedar Drive, park there and walk or ride around the Minnekhada Circle.
Short route: 8 km, very easy biking or walking on dyke trails.

Here's the map:

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And here is the map in: GoogleMap

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

#25 Oliver BC - Okanagan River Bike Path

2010-04-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

If you are travelling to the Okanagan be sure to take the family to Oliver BC to ride their paved bike path along the Okanagan River Channel. It's an easy and flat 10km route. The trail is accessible from many spots along the way - including the Visitor's Center which has free parking and a playground nearby.

See HelloBC for more information on Oliver and other bike routes in the area: Link to Oliver Tourism Info

View Oliver BC Bike Path Route in a larger map

Tour group coming along the Oliver Bike Path

Monashee Bike Tours can arrange a day trip and provide bikes and a guide!

Extend the ride:

Option 1: add on the 8 km stretch south to Osoyoos Lake where you will see an Osprey nest or two. This section of the trail is unpaved and bumpy in sections. If you want to start this trail from the south end and head north to Oliver: from Hwy97 in Osoyoos go east on Road 22. There is a parking lot where the trail meets the bridge. The trail goes south for about 1km and north to Oliver. See: Oliver to Osoyoos Lake Trail Map

Osprey nest near Osoyoos Lake

Option 2: To make the trip a circle, add on the west side of Oliver and ride down Black Sage Road to visit a few wineries! Oliver and Osoyoos Winery Ride

#26 Boundary Bay

2010-04-12T23:21:00.000-07:00

Mount Baker from Centennial Park

photo by Cheryl Papove

Boundary Bay Park is one of Metro Vancouver's Regional Parks and a perfect place for beginning riders. There are two parts of the park: Centennial Beach and the Dyke Trail east of Beach Grove.

Cyclists share the trail with hikers

We'll start our ride at Centennial Beach where you can park and unload the bikes. There are nature trails and boardwalks so you can combine cycling with a bit of walking, too. And be sure to bring a bathing suit in warm weather -- the beach is amazing.

To get there from Tsawwassen, take 56 Street South to 12 Ave until it becomes Boundary Bay Road and continue on to the park entrance.

Trails wind through natural areas

The second part of the trail can be reached from many access points in South Delta. Today we will continue north of Centennial Park through Beach Grove and pick up the trail at 17A Ave. But first we'll stop for a coffee at the Beach Grove Cafe - mmmmm!

The Beach Grove Cafe
is located at the north end of Centennial Park

Boundary Bay Dyke trail has many informative signs along the trail.

photo of Metro Vancouver Regional Parks sign.

The dyke trail extends 30 km along the shore of Boundary Bay all the way to Mud Bay Park in Surrey but you can go as far along as you like and turn back when little legs give out. Along the way you might see eagles, snowy owls, herons, ducks, and migrating birds depending on the time of year.

In winter Eagles hunt along the shoreline

photo by Cheryl Papove

Snowy Owls at Boundary Bay ~ February 2012

photo by Cheryl Papove

Mount Baker - the closest volcano to Vancouver as viewed from the trail
photo by Cheryl Papove

Link here to the Metro Vancouver Park map and here's my GPS tracks:

View #26 Boundary Bay Dyke Trail 2012 in a larger map

Link here for more information on this park
and other Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.

#27 Mud Bay and Boundary Bay Dyke Trail

2010-04-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite rides follows the shore of Mud Bay and wraps around to Boundary Bay. There's always lots to see along the way - -herons standing silently waiting for fish, flocks of shorebirds making patterns like fireworks and on this sunny January day we spotted dozens of eagles.

How to Get There:

(the dyke is accessible from many points along the way (check out the Translink Bike Map).

We started at the east end:

- Take Hwy 99 South

- west on Colebrook Rd

- south on 127A Street

- east on Railway Rd

- park in Mud Bay Park Lot

- unload and ride west

It's an easy flat ride on packed gravel all along the dyke. Mount Baker peeks through the clouds to the east and Point Roberts juts into the scene from the west. Vancouver's towers and mountains are to the north. There's a small airport along the way, a golf course, farmers working in the fields and a few new pieces of sculpture.

For lunch we stopped at the Beach Grove cafe and then continued on through Centennial Park to the old USA border stop on 167th for a trip down memory lane.

Here is the link to MapMyRide - you can download the file or send it to your phone!

View DELTA Mud Bay to Boundary Bay in a larger map

Happy Riding! ~ Colleen

Corrections, suggestions and comments appreciated: kidsbikevancouver@gmail.com

Christmas Day Ride

2009-12-29T21:18:00.000-08:00

What's better than a new bike?
Two new bikes
two great nephews
and a Christmas ride

in the rain...

Map of Rides

2009-10-14T12:25:00.000-07:00