Liam AndersonPedal power, anyone? Let’s hit the streets and trails of Vancouver on two wheels!
In this guide, we’re diving into everything you need to know about cycling in this bike-friendly city – from the best routes and trails to where to snag rentals and all the must-have cycling gear. So, grab your helmet and let’s roll into a good adventure!
Where to Find the Best Cycling Routes in Vancouver
Horseshoe Bay
– Media from crows.r_kool
Address: West Vancouver, BC, Canada
Distance: Around 46 km
Difficulty: Medium
If you’re up for dipping your toes into North Shore road cycling, Horseshoe Bay is a great starting point. It’s a real hit with cyclists in West Vancouver.
This route gives you a nice mix of elevation changes, nothing too crazy, but enough to keep it interesting while covering some solid ground. We recommend kicking things off from Stanley Park for the ultimate downtown-to-mountain experience.
Now, let’s talk about terrain: heading to and from Horseshoe Bay is what we call rolling – lots of ups and downs. Transitioning to the technical details, the ride into Horseshoe Bay from West Vancouver is slightly uphill, and the return journey is downhill.
| Pro tip: To tackle this ride, you’ll want a bike with gears – there are plenty of hills along the way. Don’t worry, though, as none are super long. |
Iona Jetty
– Media from wandering.wonk
Address: Ferguson Rd, Richmond, BC V7B 0A8
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Distance: Around 8.2 out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Just a quick hop from the Vancouver Airport, you’ll stumble upon the Iona Jetty. So, here’s the scoop: Iona Beach itself is a sweet regional park packed with wildlife, but let’s talk about the main event—the jetty, stretching out nearly 4km into the water, it’s the real star of the show.
What’s cool is that you can easily get there from pretty much anywhere in Vancouver, and you won’t have to worry about any crazy uphill climbs. Nope, it’s smooth sailing on a nice, flat trail.
As you ride along, you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views and the chance to watch planes zooming in and out. It really gives life to the quote: “Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane!” so it’s definitely worth checking out!
| Pro tip: Just a heads up if you’re bringing your furry friend along: dogs have to be kept on a leash while you’re in the park. And steer clear of letting your pup roam near the ponds on the east side and the beach between Iona Jetty and North Jetty—it’s their own little no-dog zone for the sake of wildlife habitat protection. |
Stanley Park
– Media from markmcd88
Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Distance: Around 10 km
Difficulty: Easy
Looking to explore one of Vancouver’s top bike paths? The 10-kilometre loop around the Stanley Park Seawall is a must-try! This iconic route treats you to breathtaking views of Burrard Inlet, the North Shore Mountains, the Lions Gate Bridge, and English Bay.
Start your journey on the east side of Stanley Park Drive by Coal Harbour—it’s a popular kick-off spot for the Seawall adventure, and bikes have their lane. As you pedal along the circular path, get ready for a visual feast with scenic vistas, landmarks, plus cool monuments and sculptures.
Usually, it’ll take you about 1 to 2 hours to cruise through the Stanley Park bike route. That’s plenty of time to hit the brakes a few times, soak in those killer views, and why not throw in a picnic on one of the beaches while you’re at it?
| Pro tip: The bike path around the park runs on a one-way system because, let’s face it, it gets pretty narrow in spots. So, here’s the deal: you can only pedal counter-clockwise around the park. |
Deep Cove
– Media from bretttippie
Address: North Vancouver, BC V7G 1T8
Distance: Around 48 km
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
So, picture this: Deep Cove, this adorable seaside spot tucked away at the far eastern edge of North Vancouver.
It’s a total gem for all sorts of outdoor fun, like cycling, walks, hikes, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Trust us, there’s no shortage of things to check out in Deep Cove along this cycling and walking route.
You can scope out the ruins of the old mill in Cates Park, cruise through Dollarton, take it easy on the flat Spirit Trail, or challenge yourself with hill climbs and trails around Cove Cliff. And don’t forget to add a stretch along Panorama for killer views of the cove and Indian Arm.
After all that adventuring, swing by the quaint Deep Cove village. Here, you can hit up the wharf, poke around the shops and galleries, and definitely make a pit stop at Honey’s for their famous RolyPoly donut.
| Pro tip: If you’re down, there are a couple of cool parks along the waterfront where they host free live music concerts on Friday evenings during the summer. It’s a great way to kick back and enjoy some tunes with a beautiful view! |
Central Valley Greenway
– Media from msmiciklas
Address: Vancouver, BC
Distance: Around 24 km
Difficulty: Easy
Alright, buckle up because the Central Valley route is no joke—it’s a solid 25km journey connecting Vancouver to New Westminster, blending off-road and street paths. So, if you’re feeling up for it, here’s the lowdown.
Starting at False Creek, the path weaves through Commercial Drive, letting you casually explore nearby neighbourhoods and soak in the chill vibes at Trout Lake. The route follows the Expo and Millennium SkyTrain lines, cruising to the Fraser River.
As you pedal through, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife at the lake and check out cool spots like the Nature House, Equestrian Centre, and Rowing Pavilion.
Finally, the path leads you to New Westminster, where you can chill at one of the outdoor cafés or snag some fresh produce and local goodies at the River Market at New Westminster Quay. It’s one heck of a ride, filled with sights to see and treats to savour along the way!
| Pro tip: And get this- during non-rush hours, you can throw your bike on board, turning your trek along the CVG into an even bigger adventure. |
Arbutus Greenway
– Media from rayriva
Address: Vancouver, BC
Distance: Around 9 km
Difficulty: Easy
Picture a car-free, nine-kilometre bike route slicing through the heart of Vancouver, tracing the path of an old rail line.
We’re talking about the Arbutus Greenway, a freshly paved paradise for cyclists, pedestrians, and even skateboarders that winds through neighbourhoods, wildflowers, and parks, making it a haven for anyone on two wheels!
Now, the best way to dive into the Greenway magic is by hopping on at Kitsilano, specifically 6th Street and Fir. A bit of an unconventional start since there are no official bike lanes leading straight to the Greenway from that side.
But once you’re on the Greenway itself, it’s smooth sailing. Oh, and here’s a little bonus: the hills are a breeze, so there’s no need to break a sweat on this ride!
| Pro tip: If you make it to Marpole on the Greenway, you can veer off at 68th Avenue (although it might be a bit confusing where you cross Granville). From there, you can head to Richmond or East Vancouver or simply turn around and head back the way you came! |
10th Avenue Corridor
– Media from mindful.laura
Address: 10th Avenue Corridor – Vancouver, BC
Distance: Around 2.87 km
Difficulty: Easy
The 10th Avenue Corridor, stretching from Trafalgar Street to Victoria Drive, is adorned with stunning cherry blossoms. It’s one of the busiest local bikeways, with over 500,000 cyclists annually and 2,500 riders daily during the summer along Clark.
But here’s the best part: 10th Avenue is getting a major upgrade to make it safer, more convenient, and just downright fun for riders of all ages and abilities.
Plus, as you pedal along, you’ll be treated to some seriously stunning sights, like heritage homes decked out in vibrant colours and towering trees creating a lush canopy overhead.
And get this: the 100th block of 10th Avenue was once voted the “Most Beautiful Block” in the city, and you’ll see why the moment you pedal through it. So, grab your bike and get ready for a picturesque ride through this enchanting corridor!
| Pro tip: Be sure to check out the “Painted Ladies”—a group of brightly colored, early 20th-century Queen Anne-style houses on the south side of West 10th Avenue. They were rescued from demolition and carefully brought back to life. |
Seymour Demonstration Road
Address: 92R2+75, North Vancouver, BC
Distance: Around 24 km
Difficulty: Medium
So, check this out: the Seymour Demonstration Road used to be open to cars, but now it’s all about cyclists! It’s a must-do in Vancouver’s biking scene. Starting up at the north tip of Lynn Canyon, the road weaves its way through the forest until you reach the breathtaking Seymour Dam lookout point.
Now, if you’re into trails, you’ve got to check out the Fisherman’s Trail nearby. It’s not super long, but be warned—there are some serious hills to conquer along the way!
| Pro tip: To get there, it’s best to drive up Lillooet Road past Capilano University to the top, where you’ll find the parking lot. Just a heads up, there’s no public transit this way! |
West Dyke Trail
– Media from megventures
Address: Richmond, BC
Distance: Around 6 km
Difficulty: Easy
Get ready for an awesome adventure on the six-kilometre gravel bike path atop the West Dyke in Richmond! Starting at Terra Nova Park and winding through to the Steveston neighbourhood, where you can grab a bite at one of the riverfront restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to catch a stunning sunset.
Now, here’s what makes this route extra special: the trail itself is easy, straight, and wide—ideal for riders of all ages and skill levels. You can even bring the whole family for a picnic since there are benches along the way.
| Pro tip: Just remember to pack some sun protection for those scorching hot days, as there’s not much shade around. |
Queen Elizabeth Park
Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Distance: Around 2.3 km loop
Difficulty: Easy
Looking for a leisurely bike ride through some stunning gardens and parks? Well, hop on the Midtown/Ridgeway or Ontario Street bike route and head to Queen Elizabeth Park.
There, you’ll discover the Quarry Gardens, an arboretum, and the Bloedel Floral Conservatory. Once you’ve explored these green spaces, pedal west along 37th Avenue to reach the VanDusen Botanical Garden.
It’s a botanical wonderland showcasing plant species from all over the world, with beautiful floral displays, native and exotic trees, and sculptures to admire. And don’t forget to soak in the breathtaking view from the highest point in Vancouver!
| Pro tips: You’ll find Queen Elizabeth Park close to the King Edward and Oakridge-41st stations on the Canada Line. |
Where to Find the Best Bike Rentals in Vancouver
Cycle City Tours And Bike Rentals
– Media from cyclevancouver
Address: 648 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2
Contact details: +1 604-618-8626
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Cycle City Tours And Bike Rentals in Vancouver has hundreds of rental bikes available, ranging from comfy city cruisers to high-performance road bikes for the more experienced riders. And here’s the best part—all bike rentals come with a complimentary helmet, lock, basket or handlebar bag, and a map.
Oh, and the variety is impressive, from city cruisers to e-bikes for a comfy ride and performance road bikes for the more seasoned riders; they’ve got it all. And hey, they’ve got your little adventurers covered, with their youth and children’s equipment that comes in different sizes.
Now, let’s talk rates: starting as low as $11 for a one-hour joy ride and going up to $92 for a full-day biking extravaganza. So, whether you’re out for a quick spin or a full day of exploring, Cycle City Tours And Bike Rentals has the perfect wheels for your adventure!
Spokes Bicycle Rentals
– Media from spokesvancouver
Address: 1798 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2V7 (flagship); 870 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1Z7
Contact details: +1 604-688-5141
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Did you know that Spokes Bicycle Rentals is the go-to spot for bike rentals near Stanley Park? Yep, they’re one of the popular rental shops around, and they’re conveniently located right at the corner of Denman and Georgia Streets—talk about easy access!
Here’s what they’ve got to offer: a huge selection of cruiser bikes with different speeds (1-speed and 7-speed), along with mountain, city, tandem, and children’s bikes.
And get this—their adult bikes start at just $8.57 per hour, while children’s bikes and family attachments start at a super affordable $4.76 per hour.
Plus, they throw in complimentary locks, helmets, baskets, and bags. Oh, and here’s a handy tip: make sure to check out their interactive map on their website! It’s super helpful for navigating different routes and finding cool spots nearby.
Yes Cycle Bike & Ski Rentals
– Media from yescycle_adventures
Address: 1351 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Z7
Contact details: +1 604-569-0088
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Located near Stanley Park, they have a sweet deal for bike rentals and ski and snowboard gear. From women’s bikes to city gliders like Indie 3 and Rideau, even Rear Child Seats and Chariots—they’ve got a range of bikes ready to roll.
As for prices, their regular bikes will cost you the same rate per hour (except for kids’ bikes), while E-bikes are a bit pricier. It’s $9 for the first hour, and then the rate drops for every extra hour you keep it.
Each bike comes with a handy basket, lock, and helmet. Just a heads up, if you decide to hang onto the bike overnight, there’s a $15 charge.
Here’s the best part: you don’t usually need to pre-book, and they’ve got plenty of bikes available. So, swing by anytime and snag the bike that’s calling your name.
English Bay Bike Rentals
– Media from englishbaybikes
Address: 1754 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1W2
Contact details: +1 604-568-8490
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
At English Bay Bike Rentals, they’ve handpicked their rental bikes to give you the best possible rides around Vancouver. Whether you’re cruising along the seawall or exploring the parks and neighbourhoods on hybrids and cross trails, they’ve got you covered.
And hey, if you’re in the mood for a family adventure in Stanley Park, they’ve got all the accessories you need, too! Now, here’s the lowdown on rates: starting at $10.48 for 1 hour and going up to $104.76 for 24 hours, depending on the type of bike (e-bikes are a bit pricier).
Bee’s Knees eBike Tours and Rentals
– Media from beeskneesrentals
Address: 1315 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Z7
Contact details: +1 778-874-2337
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bee’s Knees eBike Tours and Rentals offers a range of eBikes and regular bikes to suit all riding styles and terrains. They take the time to ensure each bike fits you perfectly before you hit the road.
Plus, their eBike rental rates start as low as $ 35 for a 2-hour ride. And the best part? Every bike rental includes a helmet, lock, a small handlebar bag, and a handy bike map.
If you’re planning a longer period, Bee’s Knees can hook you up with long-term rentals. For rentals of a week or more, 30% of the rental fee from the second week onward can become credited toward a new or ex-rental fleet eProdigy bike when you want to buy one—pretty neat, eh?
Where to Find the Best Bike Shops in Vancouver
The Bike Doctor
– Media from the_bikedr
Address: 137 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1P4
Contact details: +1 604-873-2453
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Alright, let’s chat about The Bike Doctor—they’ve been putting smiles on the faces of both newbies and seasoned cyclists for ages! Their team is not only knowledgeable but also friendly, ensuring that every visit is a total win-win without any pressure or awkward vibes.
And check this out—they’ve got one of the best service areas in the city, meaning any repairs or advice you need will be handled by a pro mechanic.
They’ve got a killer selection, from cruisers and road bikes to trail bikes, touring bikes, gravel bikes, and even e-bikes. They also offer a wide range of bike accessories, parts, wheels, helmets, clothing, shoes, and so much more.
West Point Cycles
– Media from westpointcycles
Address: 215 E 2nd Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 1B6
Contact details: +1 604-559-9944
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Meet West Point Cycles, the oldest bicycle retailer in British Columbia, kicking things off in 1930 on West 10th Ave. And guess what? They’ve got the whole spectrum covered—from children’s bikes to fully customized road and mountain bikes.
But that’s not all they do! Need some TLC for your bike? West Point Cycles has got your back with a complete range of maintenance and repair services to have your ride running in tip-top shape.
And here’s a neat bonus—they offer free clinics where they share some basic bike skills, wherein you dive into tips and techniques, whether you’re fixing a flat or mastering the basics of bike maintenance. It’s like a crash course to help you squeeze every bit of fun out of your bike.
R.A.D. Cycles
– Media from r.a.d._cycles
Address: 701 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1X8
Contact details: +1 778-379-4799
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
When “rad” is literally in the name, you know it’s a good spot! R.A.D is a go-to place for everything bike-related. Whether you need a quick fix, a full service, or even a shiny new set of wheels, just swing by E. Broadway.
And here’s the cherry on top—they offer free bike check-ups, along with complimentary air and oil. How cool is that? R.A.D. truly has your back when it comes to keeping your wheels spinning smoothly!
Bicicletta
– Media from bicicletta.cc
Address: 1497 Adanac St, Vancouver, BC V5L 2A8
Contact details: +1 778-719-3080
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Check out Bicicletta’s website for all your biking needs! You can easily shop for bikes and book services, maintenance and repairs. With just a scroll, you’ll find a variety of options like road, gravel, mountain and e-bikes, plus plenty more.
And don’t forget to explore their selection of bike apparel, accessories, parts, and even indoor training gear, computers, and sensors. It’s all there, right at your fingertips!
Veloholic Cycles (Road Bike Boutique)
– Media from veloholic_cycles
Address: 5850 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5W 2Z5
Contact details: +1 778-379-5669
Opening hours: Tuesday, Thursday and Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for all things cycling, Veloholic is a top contender. They’ve got frame sets, tune-up services, and even overhauls to keep your bike on point.
And let us tell you, their team? Totally into cycling—it’s like their whole world. When it comes to keeping your ride in check, Veloholic got you covered with all sorts of services.
From tweaking gears to sorting brakes and lubing up chains, they’ve got the whole package to keep you rolling smoothly. So, if your bike needs some love, Veloholic Cycles is where it’s at!
What to Wear for Different Seasons or Weather Conditions When Cycling
Spring
– Media from giordanacycling
- Base layer: First, grab some long dry-fit or merino wool socks to keep your feet comfy and dry. Then, get a dry-fit undershirt, whether it’s a tank top, tee shirt, or long sleeve, to wick away sweat and regulate your body temp.
- Second layer: If you’re not already wearing padded long pants, consider adding some long tights over your padded-shorts for extra warmth and protection, especially on cooler days.
- Outer later: Grab a waterproof rain jacket, just in case of a surprise shower. Don’t forget to wear long finger-light gloves to keep your hands cozy, and consider a small beanie or headband to keep your ears warm if it’s chilly.
Summer
– Media from sir.bikes.alot
- Base layer: When it’s nice out, and you’re just taking a quick spin, you can rock whatever clothes you’re feeling. But if you’re gearing up for a longer or more challenging ride, it’s best to wear workout gear that dries fast (dry-fit shirt).
If your butt feels sore after biking, consider buying padded bike shorts. Don’t like tight spandex? You can get thinly padded liner shorts to wear under your regular shorts or pants.
- Second layer: Bring along a light windbreaker or rain jacket if it’s chilly out. It can get cold on a bike, especially with the wind blowing near the ocean or when you’re speeding down a hill.
And if your hands get sore, consider getting bike gloves with some padding since they can be a big help on rough roads or gravel trails. For summer riding, choose fingerless gloves to stay cool.
Fall
– Media from legere_photos
- Base layer: Think about putting your money into fabrics that handle moisture well and let your skin breathe. Get yourself a top that’s good quality, not too thick, and not too thin—just right.
- Second layer: Don’t forget to toss in different shirt options—grab a T-shirt, a long-sleeved one, and a waterproof jacket. You know, just in case the weather can’t make up its mind during your ride.
Oh, and because you’ll be rocking that helmet, go for a jacket with a front zipper. It’ll make slipping it on and off a breeze.
Winter
– Media from giantbicyclevancouver
- Base layer: You’ll want to stay cozy on those chilly rides, so think about rocking a Merino wool base layer and some warm socks. A buff around your neck can keep the wind at bay, too. And for your bottom half, fleece-lined tights or thermal tights will do the trick.
Oh, and if you can, snag some bibs—they go all the way up to your shoulders, keeping you sealed off from the elements.
- Second layer: Throw on a long-sleeved jersey with some wind protection or a light vest/jacket combo. And if you’re feeling the chill, you can even pop on a second pair of cycling pants that are a bit looser than your base layer.
- Outer later: As it gets dark early, visibility is key, so opt for reflective gear or leg/arm bands, and don’t forget those bright lights. For outer layers, prioritize warmth and windproofing to combat the cold.
Look for a wind-breaking shell to stay cozy without adding bulk. If you find one that’s also waterproof, even better!
