After a long day of biking on Vancouver Island, I can definitely say this place is like a scenic dream. Each trail offers gorgeous views, from dense forests to stunning coastlines, but man, my legs are feeling it.
I’ll never forget the time I pushed too hard on a steep hill and, gasping for breath at the top, was greeted by a deer who looked just as worn out as I felt!
If you’re ready for some unforgettable trails—just remember to pace yourself—let’s dive into the best bike paths this island has to offer!
- Check out the Galloping Goose Trail
- Traverse the Cowichan Valley Trail
- Go Biking at Mount Tzouhalem Mountain Biking Trails
- Ride the Lochside Regional Trail
- Head to the Cumberland Mountain Biking Trails
- Go to the Pacific Marine Circle Route
- Visit the Gabriola Island Bike Routes
- Hit the Trails at Hartland Mountain Bike Park
Check out the Galloping Goose Trail
Length: 55 kilometers
Difficulty level: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Coastal views, wildlife, access to parks
Address: South end of the Selkirk Trestle, at the foot of Alston Street in Vic West
Contact details: 250-360-3000
Operating hours: Open 24/7, 7 days a week
The Galloping Goose Trail, named after a quirky 1920s railcar, offers 55 kilometers of scenic biking from Victoria to Sooke. It takes you through a mix of urban streets, peaceful rural landscapes, and wild forests, with views that make every pedal worth it.
You’ll ride under bridges, glide through lush forests, and pass by charming residential areas. This trail is a gem for cyclists—mostly shaded with stunning views all around. As a rail trail, it’s not too intense but keeps things interesting.
Its nearly flat terrain makes it perfect for riders of all ages and fitness levels. We suggest that you plan for about half a day to tackle one way. Just be prepared for a bit of guesswork when navigating Victoria and Esquimalt.
Pro tip:
For safety, it’s best to travel in groups of 2 or 3, and pets should always be kept on a leash. In some cases, off-leash dogs can be more of a concern than wildlife along the trail.
Traverse the Cowichan Valley Trail
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Length: 120 kilometers
Difficulty level: Moderate
Highlights: Kinsol Trestle, Cowichan River, scenic countryside
Address: Stebbings Road and at Sooke Lake Road, near the south end of Shawnigan Lake
Contact details: +1 250-746-2620
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 8am to 4:30pm
Showcasing the natural beauty and charm of the Cowichan region, this trail forms an essential part of the Trans-Canada Trail. There are two routes, with the upper one offering smoother terrain and the lower one with its rougher path and trestles.
The lower trail is a challenge if you’re on commuter or hybrid bikes. Expect tree roots, loose gravel, and scattered stones.
The upper Route C is much friendlier, with packed gravel and a gradual climb from Lake Cowichan, followed by a smooth downhill ride to Duncan (and the reverse if you’re heading the other way).
While it’s a scenic ride, it’s not near the river, so you’ll have to hop off the trail and bike down if you’re looking for a riverside break.
Pro tip:
Bring your own lunch and plenty of water, as there are no services available here.
Go Biking at Mount Tzouhalem Mountain Biking Trails
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Length: 8.5 kilometers
Difficulty level: Advanced
Highlights: Technical descents, breathtaking views, challenging climbs
Address: North of Victoria and east of the community of Duncan
Contact details: 250-746-5112
Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 8am to 4:30pm
The bike loop at Mount Tzouhalem is one of the most rewarding routes you can ride on the mountain. It even hosted the BC Bike Race in 2018 and 2019.
With plenty of variety, it’s a playground for intermediate and advanced riders. This trail stands out for its rocky terrain, featuring technical rock gardens, ledge drops, and built-up features that’ll keep you on your toes.
The long sightlines, smooth flow, and some steep sections mean you can build up impressive speed as you rip down this thrilling descent. Most of the trails here are blue-level, with a few black diamond challenges sprinkled in.
The views, though, are what truly set this spot apart—especially at sunset. You’ll get epic panoramas stretching all the way to the Rocky Mountains in the southwest.
Pro tip:
While grizzly bears are rare on Vancouver Island, black bears are fairly common. The best way to alert bears to your presence is by simply speaking aloud.
Ride the Lochside Regional Trail
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Length: 29 kilometers
Difficulty level: Easy
Highlights: Coastal views, farmland scenery, access to markets and cafes
Address: 625 Fisgard Street
Contact details: 250-479-0211
This popular trail is a favorite for both commuters and leisure bikers. Shared by horses, cyclists, and walkers, it stretches from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, through Sidney, all the way to Victoria and beyond.
The ride takes you through peaceful forests and farmland, with a perfectly flat path leading to Mattick’s Farm.
Beautifully maintained, this trail offers a relaxing ride through quiet countryside, just far enough from the main highway to give you a real sense of escape.
There are plenty of great spots to stop along the way, with highlights like the charming town of Sidney, Michell’s farm stand, and Mattick’s Farm being crowd favorites.
Pro tip:
Be sure to alert others when approaching foot traffic or equestrians from behind by ringing your bell or calling out, and remember to slow down.
Head to the Cumberland Mountain Biking Trails
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Length: 200 kilometers
Difficulty level: Beginner to Advanced
Highlights: Forested trails, diverse terrain, community-built paths
Address: 2692 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland
Contact details: 250-336-2291
Operating hours: Open 24/7, 7 days a week
Located near Courtenay, the Cumberland Trail Network is a go-to spot for mountain bikers of all skill levels, offering a wide range of routes to explore.
There are no mandatory jumps, drops, or gaps that would push this trail into double black territory, and the few technical features it has don’t come close to that level of difficulty either.
Cumberland has become a true mecca for riders. With its diverse selection of trails, easy access, and a top-notch trail crew keeping everything in great shape, it’s a must-visit destination for mountain bikers across BC and western Canada.
Pro tip:
Pay attention to signage at trailhead kiosks and along the trails to stay informed about trail difficulty, busy intersections, road crossings, and any special trail descriptions.
Go to the Pacific Marine Circle Route
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Length: 263 kilometers
Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult
Highlights: Coastal views, old-growth forests, remote beaches
Operating hours: Open 24/7, 7 days a week
Located on Southern Vancouver Island, the Pacific Marine Circle Route offers a stunning scenic ride through some of the island’s most diverse and picturesque landscapes.
This coast-to-coast journey treats you to panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca, Haro, and Georgia straits. The route is fully paved and takes you through charming little towns every few hours, adding to the adventure.
The entire Pacific Marine Circle Route is now fully paved. Apart from sections of Highway 1 between Duncan and Victoria, most of the route is a two-lane road with limited passing opportunities.
Pro tip:
You will lose cell service between Sooke and Lake Cowichan so it’s best to bring paper maps or a GPS.
Visit the Gabriola Island Bike Routes
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Length: 20 kilometers
Difficulty level: Easy
Highlights: Coastal views, secluded roads, beach access
Contact details: 250-247-9332
Operating hours: Open 24/7, 7 days a week
Just 20 minutes from Nanaimo, Gabriola Island offers a fun and technical biking route that’s clear of obstructions, with no trees across the path.
Some sections even resemble a natural pump track, featuring quick ups and downs that keep things exciting.
The trail has a gentle downhill flow, making it a green-rated ride, and it’s mellow enough that you could probably bike uphill too. It’s a fun ride overall, and definitely worth doing again!
For a more secluded cycling experience, Gabriola Island’s quiet roads, beachside trails, and natural beauty make it an ideal escape for those looking to explore in peace.
Pro tip:
Head to the grocery store and grab lunch as there’s not a lot of options once you’re on the trails.
Hit the Trails at Hartland Mountain Bike Park
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Length: 46 kilometers
Difficulty level: Intermediate to Advanced
Highlights: Technical singletrack, steep descents, rocky terrain
Address: West Saanich Road, Wallace Drive
Operating hours: Open 24/7, 7 days a week
The Hartland network of mountain bike trails at Mount Work Regional Park is the most extensive, accessible, and popular trail system on southern Vancouver Island.
Located near Victoria, Hartland Mountain Bike Park—affectionately nicknamed “The Dump”—is a go-to destination for mountain bikers seeking technical trails and a thrilling challenge.
The terrain here offers something for everyone, ranging from doubletrack access roads and easy-rated cross-country trails for beginners to challenging double-black routes featuring steep rock rolls and rooty sections.
There are also fantastic flow trails with banks, berms, and jumps for those who love to dive into the freestyle side of biking.
Pro tip:
Start early in the morning, as by noon the lack of breeze in the densely wooded area can make it feel stifling.