By Hans Rey
Photos: Hoshi Yoshida and Carmen Rey
My latest urban adventure took place in Vancouver, the birthplace of modern Freeride Mountain Biking on Canada’s west coast. Over a five-day journey, I was joined by downhill legend Steve Peat, freeride pioneer Wade Simmons, and some local shredders. Our mission: traverse this multicultural city from east to west on e-bikes, showcasing both classic spots and hidden gems, and highlighting the contrast between urban jungles and the incredible nature surrounding Vancouver.
Note: Planning these trips requires significant research to design the ideal route, balancing trails, views, riding spots, landmarks, and little-known areas even locals might not know about.
Stage One: Eagle Mountain to Port Moody
Wade and I began our journey on Eagle Mountain near Coquitlam, east of Vancouver. This area, although familiar to locals, remains under the radar for many international visitors. We tackled the 15-mile “Full Pull” loop, enjoying classic trails like Marvin, which features technical sections, steep rock drops, and wooden Northshore features.
Descending through neighborhoods, we reached Port Moody and encountered the local trials biking scene. The permanent trials area under a highway overpass was a surprising and fantastic end to our first day.
Stage Two: Burnaby to Downtown
On Day 2, we were joined by Mountain Bike Hall of Famer Steve Peat. Starting at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, we tackled an e-bike uphill challenge on Nicole’s Trail, showcasing the new over-run function on my Shimano-equipped EP801 bike.
Traversing the university campus and Burnaby Mountain Park, we explored hidden spots, pump tracks, and urban features. Our journey took us to downtown Vancouver, ending with dinner at the Canada Place Ship Terminal before ferrying back to North Vancouver.
Stage Three: North Vancouver
The North Vancouver stage was a personal highlight. Joined by local rider Caleb Holonko, we explored the Northshore’s ladder bridges, wooden stunts, and the new bike park on Grouse Mountain. Riding legendary trails like Upper Oil Can and Expresso, we witnessed Caleb’s impressive skills and enjoyed the beauty of these ancient woods.
Our day ended with a visit to the Northshore Indoor Bike Park, where Caleb showcased his jumping skills while we enjoyed a well-deserved beer.
Stage Four: Squamish
Although not exactly close to Vancouver, we couldn’t resist a stage in Squamish, famous for its granite rock slabs and trails. Ryder Bulfone, a rising star in the biking community, led us on classic slabs and steep trails, testing our skills and equipment to the limit. The day concluded with a pizza party at Jackson Goldstone’s family house.
Final Stage: West Vancouver
Our final urban stage explored the west side of Vancouver. Crossing Lionsgate Bridge to Stanley Park, we experienced the city’s recreational heart. From Robson Street to Granville Island and Kitsilano, we rode to West Point and ended our adventure at the infamous Wreck Beach.
Before you Go
Reflecting on this incredible journey through Vancouver, it’s clear that the city’s blend of urban environments and natural landscapes creates a unique and unforgettable mountain biking experience. From the hidden trails of Eagle Mountain to the bustling streets of downtown, from the legendary Northshore stunts to the epic rock slabs of Squamish, each stage of this adventure offered something special.
Exploring Vancouver on e-bikes allowed the riders to connect with the city’s vibrant biking community, discover its diverse neighborhoods, and appreciate its breathtaking scenery. The camaraderie with fellow riders like Steve Peat, Wade Simmons, and Caleb Holonko, along with the support of local enthusiasts, made this adventure truly memorable.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the sport, Vancouver’s trails and urban routes promise an exhilarating and enriching experience. So, grab your bike, hit the trails, and discover the magic of maneuvering through Vancouver!