A slice of paradise pie
Nestled between Vancouver and Whistler, Squamish, BC really knows how to lay down the loam. With over 200 kilometers of singletrack, endless slabs, fun woodwork and stunning scenery, Squamish’s ingredients are mouthwatering to any mountain biker.
Being named by Mountain Bike Magazine as one of the top 25 wildest and most exotic places to mountain bike in the world, Squamish offers a huge variety of trails for mountain bikers of any experience level. With several riding areas, the trail menu is endless.
A few of the top trails in Squamish
In the Diamond Head/Quest University area, the pedaly bunch can climb Stl’lhalem Sintl’ (no f-ing clue how to say that…it’s also called the Legacy trail) to earn your reward on Squamish’s marquee trail Half Nelson; 3km of smooth as butter downhill pumptrack. Another classic in the Quest area is Angry Midget, a single black that starts with some great roots, rocks and rolls and descends down into a more flowy bottom half.
In the Alice Lake area, everyone’s fave, Rupert; named after the trail builder’s dog is a single black with intermediate chicken ride-arounds. The trail offers some super fun rock slabs, interesting wood-work and a giant doghouse you ride through on the b-line called Tazer.
Trails from left: Mark my Word, Bony Elbows, Entrails
If you’re looking to kick up the zest-factor, roll on over to Hueso, also in the Alice Lake area. Hueso is a double black that starts near the exit of Entrails and steps up the tech and the gnar with grippy rock slabs and some easier panty lines on the zestier sections.
Cultivated over years of sustainable trail development by a vibrant culture of local mountain bikers and trail builders, Squamish’s trails are truly a slice of paradise pie—with a cherry on top!
Where to stay in Squamish
Get a taste of the mountain air by pitching a tent at the sprawling Alice Lake Campground or check out the best kept secret Squamish Bike BnB. There are also a few hotels in town if that’s yer bag.
Where to eat in Squamish
After a fun-filled day of riding, grab some lunch at Locavore food truck, permanently parked at the bottom of Mamquam Rd., as you leave the Garibaldi Highlands riding area.
For dinner, there are a few hot spots: Essence of India, Sushi Sen have great ethnic food. The Watershed Grill has a killer setting perched next to the Squamish River. Backcountry Brewing is a great place to share a few pints and some pizza with your pals, it’s always buzzing with locals! If you’re at Backcountry, don’t miss Tall Tree Bakery next door for some mouthwatering treats! Tell them Zesty Life sent you 🙂
Need to know
Season: Primarily March-November. Year round; weather dependent
Permit Required: Yes; SORCA trail pass
Number of Trails: 278
Distance From Vancouver: 63km
Difficulty: Beginner to expert
Dog Friendly: Yes
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