Although heavily populated, the Fraser Valley is home to some incredible off-road riding areas. Steep, rugged mountains and coastal rainforest make for challenging riding, but for the experienced rider, it is one of the best places in Canada to ride.
Two of the more popular riding areas are Nickelmine near Hope, B.C., and Chipmunk Creek, which is outside of Chilliwack, B.C.
Technical trails at Chipmunk Creek
Located in the Chilliwack river valley, Chipmunk Creek is one of the more technical riding areas in the province.
To get there: from Chilliwack, go south on Vedder Road, then head east along the Chilliwack Lake Road. After 25 kilometres, turn left onto Chipmunk Creek/Foley Lake Forest Service Road. From here, people stage from various pullouts along the road, or there are two maintained campsites four and six kilometres from the pavement.
Home of the Piston Run, one of Canada’s oldest off-road races, the trail system at Chipmunk Creek is one of the most unique systems in Canada, thanks to the hard work of the Greater Vancouver Motorcycle Club (GVMC) and some generous corporate sponsors.
The trails feature lots of roots, rocks and even aluminum bridges! To add interest and make some of the steeper terrain rideable, aluminum bridges have been fabricated and installed over creeks and ravines and even descend a large cliff.
Riding options for beginners are somewhat limited due to the rugged terrain, but there is a kids’ loop near the Rapids Recreation site and many of the lower trails are marked novice. There is also a large network of logging roads extending all the way into the alpine that are perfect for dual-sport rides.
For the more experienced riders, more than 60 kilometres of technical singletrack snakes through the coastal forest. Be prepared for steep hills, sudden drops and narrow singletrack perched high on the mountain sides. While the riding is not easy, it is very rewarding and is a must-ride for anyone enthusiastic about off-road riding.
Family riding at Nickelmine
Nickelmine is the perfect location for a family outing, thanks to a great campsite and range of trails, yet is equally well suited for those looking to test their skills while training for the next extreme enduro.
From the staging area, trails extend in all directions. Under the power lines is an old motocross track and some faster trails. Heading up the mountain leads to plenty of harder trails and some great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
It’s easy to get lost in the Nickelmine area, with well over 100 kilometres of trails. However, maps are available from British Columbia Off-Road Motorcycle Association (BCORMA).
With summer in full swing, pack up the bikes and head for the coast. More information on riding in the Fraser Valley can be found on the BCORMA website.