As the alpine snowline recedes, Mount Revelstoke National Park trail system and the Meadows in the Sky parkway opens up. Accessible via trails at the railway museum and open to anyone with a Park Canada pass, the collection of mountain biking trails, road biking options and Beaver Lodge Kids’ Bike Park provides a host of opportunities for bikers of all skill levels.
Established in 1914 by a group of locals determined to protect the sub-alpine wildflower meadows for future generations, Mount Revelstoke National Park remains a hub of hiking, biking, skiing and camping.
“Over a century later, residents and visitors continue to appreciate the park for its fantastic recreation offer, right next to the city,” Sierra Stinson, Parks Canada public relations and communications officer for Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks told Revelstoke Mountaineer.
Road biking
Not looking for a mountain bike challenge but still want to explore the scenery the park has to offer? Road biking Meadows in the Sky Parkway’s 1,4000 meter climb up to Mount Revelstoke’s summit gives a rewarding ride along the 26 kilometre route, providing a panoramic view of the mountain ranges surrounding Revelstoke. Seven different roadside lookouts offer a chance to rest and take in the sights.
“For the safest, stress-free experience, this route is best ridden earlier or later in the day, when vehicle traffic is lower,” Stinson said. Animals frequent the road as an easier way to travel through the region, meaning encounters with deer, bears, amphibians and more is probable.
“Carry bear spray and give animals the space and respect that they deserve,” Stinson said.
Mountain biking
Riders can test their skills on nine kilometres of intermediate mountain biking trails that start off at the Nels Nelsen Historic Area. The Soren Sorensen loops, two main mountain biking loops, offer two-kilometre and five-kilometre route options, both featuring wide, double-track trails focusing on technical descents and climbs throughout the interior rainforest scenery. Lengthen your ride even more with the 23 Connector trail, linking the Nels Nelsen area with Highway 23 North, or head back down via the Mount Revelstoke Multi-Use Trail and carry on from the Revelstoke Railway Museum to the various pathways in Revelstoke.
Mountain biking is only permitted on Mount Revelstoke trails designated for cycling. Other trails throughout the park are solely for hiking and other permitted activities. If a trail is not signed for cycling, biking is not permitted.
Beaver Lodge Kids’ Bike Park
Newer riders looking to build their skills, endurance and confidence before heading out onto the mountain biking trails can try the Beaver Lodge Kids’ Bike Park. Located at the top of the Mount Revelstoke Multi-Use Trail and beside the Nels Nelsen parking lot, the park is accessible for all budding bikers. Designed for families with children as young as two years old, the park includes features found on the main mountain bike trails such as banks, log obstacles, tighter turns and more.
“Visitors can develop bike skills, play and learn about the park in a fun and active way. Explore interactive sculptures and features like the dragonfly teeter totter, animal overpass and the giant snail,” Stinson said.
Before heading out for biking adventures at Mount Revelstoke, check trail conditions on the Parks Canada website, have your parks pass on you or purchase a day pass at the Parks Canada Office in Revelstoke or the Parkway Welcome Kiosk and make sure you’re packed for all weather.
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