MIVA Sunday Road Ride - Cowichan Valley
Sunday, July 12, 2026
9:00 a.m. to ~3:00 p.m.
For a change from the usual MIVA Sunday Road Rides in the Nanaimo area, we are going to offer a fun day exploring the roads (and wineries) of Cowichan Valley.
This ride will follow a route designed by Eric B (with lots of help from Peter V and Stephen H) for the upcoming MS Bike - Cowichan fund raising ride that is being held on August 8 (Note: we are still looking for riders and volunteers for that event - if you are interested, please register here on the MS Canada website).
The distance is 69 km, the elevation gain is approximately 830 m and the pace will be approximately 22km/h, no drop, with numerous stops for snacks and beverages. We start in Duncan, near Queen Margret School and ride out to Cowichan Bay. We then wind our way south, stopping at the beautiful Cherry Point Nature Park. We then continue south on Telegraph Rd, eventually working our way to Merridale Cidery. Next we head north through Cobble Hill to a stop at Blue Grouse Winery. From there we follow Koksilah Rd to Glenora, with optional stops at either the Glenora Store or Zanatta Winery. We wrap up by riding along Indian Road back to Duncan and the vehicles.
The plan is to meet at 8:50 am at the parking lot near the excellent Fishbowl Cafe (closed on Sundays) at the corner of Government and Cairnsmore in Duncan. Travel time from downtown Nanaimo is approximately 50 minutes, so plan accordingly. If you want to car pool (which is recommended), or have questions, please reach out on the MIVA Discord club-road-events channel.
Riders are expected to be prepared for a four-hour road ride, carrying supplies for basic mechanical needs, and lots of hydration. Good food and snacks are available at multiple wineries and coffeeshops along the route.
This ride requires an MIVA membership, or you can try two MIVA events with a signed waiver. Waiver info can be found on the "About Us" page
RidewithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55098812