Best Bike Rides in Vancouver
Vancouver is a cyclist’s dream come true. The mild weather makes it easy to get out and about while the large network of paths and bike lanes make it easy to avoid traffic and enjoy the outdoors. With bike trails extending for miles in and around the city, there’s a route out there for every mood and skill level. So, whether you feel like visiting a garden, a beach, or a mountain path – there’s a place for you and your bike to go. Read on for some of our favourite bike routes in and around Vancouver.
Bonus Tip: The city of Vancouver has a detailed cycling map for you to plan your own route.
- Sunset Beach to Kitsilano via False Creek
This route is ideal for a bike ride filled with activities and great views of Vancouver’s beaches and urban waterfront areas. Starting at Sunset Beach, you need to be careful for a stretch as rollerbladers and joggers use the same path. As you cruise along, you’ll circle False Creek where you can stop and take a museum or two. Continue along the route to Kitsilano Beach where you can hire a kayak, SUP board or simply cool off in the ocean or the outdoor, saltwater Kitsilano Pool.
You can also make a detour to Granville Island to check out the Granville Island Public Market and the numerous restaurants. Head south out of Granville Island passing under the Granville Bridge. Follow the signs to the seawall and turn right toward Kitsilano.
You can extend your bike ride even further by cycling along the seawall toward Spanish Banks and Jericho Beach with great views of the city and Stanley Park. It’s a day well spent!
- Stanley Park Seawall
This bike ride is something everyone who lives in, or visits Vancouver must do. It’s a great way to get out and about especially if you are pressed for time as it only takes about an hour or two to complete even with stops to admire the scenery along the way including some great views of Lion’s Gate Bridge, the North Shore mountains, and the mountains of Vancouver Island. This ten-kilometre paved path takes you all around the park with the sea on one side of you. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a few seals too.
Apart from the Seawall, there are other routes through Vancouver’s famous 1000-acre backyard. If you’re up for a little bit of a challenge bike up to Prospect Point for some stunning views at sunset. If you want to avoid the crowds, then it’s worth your while to explore the inner bike trails of Stanley Park.
- Central Valley Greenway
This route is made for the urban cyclist. Measuring about 24 kilometres from end-to-end, the route is flat with plenty of fun stops to make along the way. The cycling route connects New Westminster, Burnaby and Vancouver allowing you to explore pretty neighbourhoods, historic districts, and gorgeous natural areas too. You can return on BC Parkway for a 50-kilometre loop. Another option is to pick a part of the route that catches your fancy and enjoy as much time on your cycle as you like.
Start your ride at Science World which constantly has some cool exhibits, so try and make time for those if that’s your thing. Craft Beer Market is another spot nearby that offers some delectable brews and food. Make your way down to Burnaby Lake Regional Park, a birdwatchers’ paradise, for the chance to spot some osprey, bald eagles, and great blue herons – you can’t bike through the Park but it’s worth a stop. Finally, New Westminster gives you the opportunity to explore the River Market at New Westminster Quay or chill at one of the many outdoor cafes.
Green Light Cycles
An e-bike from Green Light Cycles can make getting out on your bike even more irresistible, offering multiple benefits on longer routes when compared to traditional human-powered only cycles. For example, you can choose a preferred pedal assist level, allowing individuals of all fitness levels to embark on long-distance rides or uphill climbs.
At Green Light Cycle, we have high-quality, strong, lightweight, and sporty aluminium framed e-bikes that are fast, silent, and economical. We also offer accessories like fenders and phone holders to make your ride even cooler.
Contact us today to order your e-bike and accessories, we have all the gear you need. Also, feel free to reach out and ask any e-bike-related questions you may have.