It’s easy to fall in love with British-Columbia! As you make your way North from Vancouver, the Sea to Sky Highway goes along the Pacific Ocean, you can see mountainous islands in the distance. The view is breathtaking, and will charm you even before your wheels hit the mountain bike trails.
Bordered by Howe Sound and towered by the famous Chief Mountain – a popular climbing site – Squamish is an outdoor paradise. Whether it's kite surfing, hiking, climbing or mountain biking, the town attracts many enthusiasts. It's hard not to want to live here: mountain biking trails are available year-round and the snow-capped mountains of Whistler are only an hour car ride away.
Known for its Mountain Bike Trail Network
Squamish is known for its mountain bike trail network. Entirely managed by the Squamish Off-Road Cycling Assocation (SORCA), the level classification system is constant which makes it easy to find the right trails from one area to an another. Each trail is described as being either more technical or flowy. Also, maintenance and signage are impeccable. The fun factor and challenges are there at every run!
Alice Lakes and Diamond Head areas are not to be missed. Alice Lakes has nice rock slabs, more technical downhills and amazing views. The vastness of the dense, moss-covered forest through which the trails emerge is a must-see in itself! Add the Rupert, Pamplemousse, Hot Tuna, Man Boobs and a few laps in Micki’s Magic to your list. The Entrail followed by the Boney Elbow offer a good technical challenge and the try the In n’ Out Burger for its rock slabs. Don’t forget to stop at the lake – just cool enough – for a refreshing swim at the end of the day!
Heading towards Quest University in Squamish, the Diamond Head area offers some great runs, some flowy, some technical. The classic Half Nelson should be added to your itinerary as well as the three sections of the Pseudo-Tsuga, you will want to ride those ultra flowy trails more than once! If you have a car, take the access road to the Meadow Of the Grizzly trail for a great view of Squamish and the bay. And don't forget to plan a day to tackle the slabs of Somewhere Over There!
If you are passionate about mountain biking, want to challenge yourself, ride several kilometers in one day and test your skills in an incredible setting with a great vibe, Squamish is a must on your bucket list!
Not to be Missed
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The WaterShed Grill – For the view of the mountains and Squamish River, the relaxed and friendly atmosphere and, of course, the sunset!
- Sunflower Bakery and Cafe – For the pastries, the lattes and the nice terrace on Main Street.
- The Lucavore Bar & Grill – For the gigantic terrace, local beers and the food.
- Sunny Chibas – For tacos and burritos!
- Norman Rudy’s Pub – To see the local band, the Air Formers, perform or to have a cocktail.
- Corsa Cycles and Tantalus Bike Shop – If you need anything for your bike!
- Biking in Squamish – If you need to rent a bike, the company offers delivery service, bike pick-up, everything you need. And the prices are excellent!