Join us for a Canada Day gravel/ trail ride on Gabriola Island.
Meet at the Gabriola ferry terminal to catch the 9:20 ferry. Details on ferry schedules and fares can be found here. There are discounts available with the experience card.
This is a very fun route suitable for growing off road bike handling skills while enjoying beautiful trails, ocean and island vistas. The route is 70% unpaved, a mix of gravel, single track and forest trails. There are some roots and medium technical sections particularly on the North side of the loop. The short triangle of trail at Chelwood has some larger, more challenging roots, but can be skipped easily. South side of the loop is somewhat easier and flowy. A gravel bike with minimum 35mm tires will be suitable. While there will be technical challenges, this will be a fun, social ride. We will adjust pace and regroup to ensure that everyone has a great time.
Much of the route is rural with few services so plan on bringing whatever food and water you need. At km 19 we will stop at the Silva Bay Marina where there are picnic tables (there was a vending machine for a cold drink last year, bring change). There are restaurant options along North Road after km 31.5.
Return ferries run every 35 minutes. A mid afternoon return ferry is typical for this route, but those who have time constraints can head back to the ferry after km 31 and skip the final coffee stop.
Download the Route here.