emailCycling in Regional Parks and Trails
- Where can I ride my bicycle in regional parks and trails?
- Why aren't bikes allowed on all trails?
- Can I ride my bike off trail?
- Can I ride my electric bicycle on park trails?
- Where does CRD Parks provide bike racks?
Where can I ride my bicycle in regional parks and trails?
Cyclists are welcome in regional parks and trails on trails specifically designated for cycling.
Cycling is permitted on CRD Regional Parks' two connected regional trails, built on former railway lines. The 55km Galloping Goose Regional Trail connects downtown Victoria with Sooke. The 29km Lochside Regional Trail begins in Saanich and ends at the BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay.
Cycling is also permitted:
- in the Hartland mountain biking area of Mount Work Regional Park
- on the western portion of the 10km Trail at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
- on designated multi-use trails at Thetis Lake Regional Park
Cycling is not permitted on other trails or in other CRD parks. Please lock up your bikes and explore the parks on foot.
Why aren't bikes allowed on all trails?
Most of the trails in regional parks were built for walking and hiking, and are not engineered for safe cycling. Cycling on these trails damages tree roots and creates ruts, leading to erosion.
Most hiking trails are also too narrow for safe cycling. Please be considerate of other visitors.
Can I ride my bike off trail?
No. Cycling off trail, like hiking off trail, damages plants and wildflowers and disrupts important habitat for birds and wildlife. Cycling also damages the top layer of soil, leading to erosion. Please cycle only on designated trails.
The only designated mountain biking area in the regional parks system is at Mount Work Regional Park - Hartland, which provides trails for riders of all levels.
For more information on the Mount Work-Hartland mountain biking trails, contact CRD Parks' volunteer partner, the South Island Mountain Bike Society.
Can I ride my electric bicycle on park trails?
Yes, as long as it meets the definition of a "motor-assisted cycle" under the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
Amendment to Bylaw: Electric Bicycles on Regional Trails
The CRD Board adopted Bylaw 3348, which defines and regulates the use of motor-assisted cycles on regional trails, at its meeting on July 12, 2006.
- Bylaw No. 3348 (PDF
)
Where does CRD Parks provide bike racks?
Bike racks are available for visitors at Coles Bay, Elk/Beaver Lake, Matheson Lake, Mill Hill, Thetis Lake and Witty's Lagoon regional parks and at the Atkins Road parking area of the Galloping Goose Regional Trail.