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Mountain Biking in Kamloops
Kamloops, British Columbia, is a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts. Known as the birthplace of freeriding, this city offers diverse trails, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant biking community. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, Kamloops has something to offer everyone. And when you stay at The Vista Inn, you're perfectly positioned to explore the best biking trails in the area.
Why Kamloops is a Mountain Biker’s Dream
Kamloops’ terrain is unique and varied, providing an ideal playground for mountain bikers. The region boasts a semi-arid climate, which means more sunny days and dry trails throughout much of the year. The varied topography includes rolling hills, rugged mountains, and forested trails, offering a wide range of experiences for riders of all skill levels.
The Birthplace of Freeriding
Kamloops is often referred to as the birthplace of freeriding. This style of mountain biking emphasises the rider's ability to navigate natural terrain with creativity and skill. The area's natural features provide countless opportunities for thrilling rides, making it a haven for those looking to push their limits and try new things.
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Popular Mountain Biking Trails Around Kamloops
Kamloops Bike Ranch The Kamloops Bike Ranch is a premier destination for mountain bikers. This extensive bike park features a variety of trails and terrain parks designed for riders of all skill levels. The Bike Ranch includes downhill trails, jump lines, and a skills park. A new pump track opened the summer of 2024. It’s an excellent place to spend the day improving your technique or simply enjoying some high-adrenaline fun.
Kenna Cartwright Park As one of the largest municipal parks in British Columbia, Kenna Cartwright Park offers over 40 kilometres of trails that are perfect for mountain biking. The park’s trails vary in difficulty, from easy loops suitable for beginners to more challenging routes for experienced riders. The park also provides stunning views of the Thompson Valley, making your ride as scenic as it is exhilarating.
Harper Mountain Harper Mountain is a must-visit for any mountain biking enthusiast. Located just a short drive from The Vista Inn, Harper Mountain offers a mix of technical and flow trails. The trails here range from beginner-friendly to advanced, catering to riders of all skill levels. The mountain also hosts a bike park with features like jumps, berms, and drops, perfect for those looking to improve their skills or just have some fun.
Sunpeaks Resort, located in the heart of British Columbia, Canada, is a premier year-round destination known for its breathtaking alpine scenery and diverse recreational activities. Nestled in the Thompson-Nicola region, this resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, boasting over 4,270 acres of skiable terrain. In the summer, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and golfing amidst stunning natural landscapes. With a charming village atmosphere, Sunpeaks Resort provides an array of dining, shopping, and accommodation options, making it an ideal getaway for adventure enthusiasts and families alike.
The Vista Inn: Your Home Base for Mountain Biking Adventures
Staying at The Vista Inn provides mountain biking enthusiasts with the perfect base for their adventures. Here’s why:
Bring Your Bike Into Your Room! At the Vista Inn we welcome guests to bring their bikes into their room.
Unobstructed Views: The Vista Inn boasts some of the best views in Kamloops. After a long day of riding, relax and take in the stunning scenery that overlooks the Kamloops valley, Mount Peter, and Mount Paul.
Comfort and Convenience: Our rooms are spacious and comfortable, providing a perfect place to rest and recharge after a day on the trails. With amenities like grab-and-go breakfast, Nespresso machines in every room, and guest laundry facilities, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Support Local: At The Vista Inn, we pride ourselves on supporting local businesses. Our mattresses are made in Surrey, and our furniture is crafted in Abbotsford. When you stay with us, you're supporting the local economy.
Centrally Located: The Vista Inn is centrally located, close to many of Kamloops' top attractions and biking trails. Whether you're heading out for a day of riding or exploring the local food and drink scene, everything you need is just a short distance away.
Preparing for Your Mountain Biking Trip
When planning your mountain biking adventure in Kamloops, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Safety First Always wear a helmet and appropriate protective gear. Make sure your bike is in good working condition and bring along a repair kit for any unexpected issues on the trail.
Stay Hydrated Kamloops' dry climate can be deceiving, and it's easy to become dehydrated. Always carry plenty of water, especially on longer rides.
Respect the Trails Stick to marked trails and respect local regulations. This helps preserve the natural environment and ensures the trails remain open for everyone to enjoy.
Plan Ahead Some trails may require a bit of travel to reach, so plan your route ahead of time.
Exploring Kamloops by Bike
Mountain biking isn't the only way to enjoy Kamloops on two wheels. The city also offers a variety of cycling routes perfect for road biking and leisurely rides.
Rivers Trail The Rivers Trail is a scenic path that follows the Thompson River, providing a peaceful and picturesque ride. The trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for families and casual cyclists. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view or have a picnic.
Westsyde Centennial Park This park offers a mix of paved and dirt trails, suitable for both mountain and road bikes. The trails wind through lush green spaces and offer beautiful views of the surrounding area. It’s a great spot for a relaxed ride or a more intense workout, depending on your preference.
Kamloops Bike Valet: A Secure Parking Solution for Your Ride
When exploring the vibrant downtown area of Kamloops, securing your bike shouldn't be a hassle. The Kamloops Bike Valet offers a convenient and free solution for riders. This coat-check-style service provides secure parking for all active transportation devices, including adaptive bikes, cargo bikes, bike trailers, jogging strollers, and other personal mobility devices. Located at 330 St. Paul Street between 3rd and 4th Avenue in the Kelson Hall parking lot, the Bike Valet operates from May 6 to September 2, 2024, Monday to Saturday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. It's a simple process: drop off your bike, receive a claim pass, and enjoy your time downtown with the peace of mind that your bike is safe. This service may close temporarily due to extreme weather or air quality advisories, so check ahead if conditions look uncertain. The Kamloops Bike Valet is a fantastic addition to the city, enhancing the biking experience by offering secure and worry-free parking for all cyclists.