5 Reasons to Try Biking in Coquitlam
byLocated on the edge of nature, it’s no surprise that Coquitlam is prime for mountain biking. Burke Mountain and Eagle Mountain are on our doorstep, offering a variety of trails and a West Coast style of riding: think tree roots, rocks and hand-built wooden features.
5 Reasons to Try Biking in Coquitlam
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or more of a Sunday afternoon cruiser, Coquitlam’s vast network of trails offers plenty of options for each riding style. So, where do you start?
1. Explore new terrain with a bike group
If the idea of heading out into the wilderness on your own sounds intimidating, the Tri-Cities Off Road Cycling Association (“Torca”) offers guided mountain bike rides twice monthly. Riding is free if you sign up as a member for $20/year.
“Coquitlam has a lot to offer riders of varying abilities,” says Ken Porter of Torca. “It has everything from road and flat trails to more technical tracks. It suits everyone from beginner to advanced riders – that’s what’s great about Coquitlam.”
If road biking is more your speed, Tri-Cities Cycling is “cheerfully accepting” new members. You are invited to try out a couple of rides with the club before deciding whether to join.
2. You can test your skills
Get off-road and test your abilities on some bike skills trails. One circuit located at Leigh Park (1254 Soball St) is great for younger riders, with bridges and obstacles to test your skills. Another one to try is the BMX Jump Park on the southeast side of Town Centre Park (1299 Pinetree Way, at Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station) – a competition-level BMX track that includes a primary and beginner circuit. Note: the circuits at Mundy Park are currently closed due to construction.
One circuit located at Leigh Park (1254 Soball St), is great for younger riders, with bridges and obstacles to test your skills. Another one to try is the BMX Jump Park on the southeast side of Town Centre Park (1299 Pinetree Way, at Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station) – a competition-level BMX track that includes a primary and beginner circuit.
3. It’s easy to get started
When it comes to mountain biking, start with a basic bike (borrow or rent) to see if you like the sport. Don’t forget your helmet and your map. If you’re interested in commuting on two wheels, you can also start with a basic bike.
“You hardly need anything to start riding,” advises Andrew Hartline of the Tri-Cities HUB. “An old mountain bike is fine to start commuting on, and it’s a good idea to get some lights right away. After that, you can work out what else you’ll need as you go.”
4. Great events
- Torca 500 Trail Race and twice-monthly rides: Watch for details on the website for these April events.
- Wheel 2 Heal 2017: This fundraising event for Eagle Ridge Hospital takes place May 6 at Town Centre Park (Lot E). Options include a 15 km trail ride, 40 km trail ride or a 100 km road ride.
- MEC Vancouver Century Ride: A 50 km or 100 km ride on May 28 starting and ending at Pinetree Recreation Centre (near Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station).
- Bike to Work Week: The Tri-Cities HUB is involved with this event, taking place May 29-June 4.
- Take a Kid Mountain Biking: Mark your calendars for this free event that takes place each September at Mundy Park. Leaders teach the kids new skills and then take them on a guided ride through the park.
5. Trails are accessible by transit
Thanks to SkyTrain’s Evergreen Extension, you can now zip from downtown Vancouver to Coquitlam’s forested trails in no time. Load up your bike and pick your destination.
Many of Coquitlam’s trails – including those at Hoy Creek and Coquitlam River – are easy to reach by SkyTrain, and are generally flat and accessible for all levels.
Preschoolers will love the flat, paved, 1.2-kilometre circuit around Lafarge Lake (at Lafarge Lake-Douglas SkyTrain station), whereas older children on mountain bikes might prefer Mundy Park or Riverview Forest terrain.
Adults in search of adventure can reach the base of both Burke and Eagle Mountain trail networks although be prepared for a 15-minute uphill ride from the bus stop.
Photo by Francisco Gatchalian
Getting there and around
Plan your route ahead of time by using TransLink’s Trip Planner. Also, take note that some time restrictions might apply involving loading your bike on SkyTrain. Check on TranLink’s website.
» Riding on roads? For bike route information and maps, visit coquitlam.ca/cycling »
» For trail maps, check out Trail Forks and coquitlam.ca/trails »
Respect Nature and Be Bear Smart
While enjoying the outdoors, please remember to respect nature and stay on the trails. Also, be aware that Coquitlam is home to bears as well as other urban wildlife.
Explore and Share
Pick up your copy of the Coquitlam 2017 Travel & Adventure Guide at any City facility, or read it online, and share your photos online using #explorecoquitlam.
