Out & About – Comox Valley Family Cycle Routes

Whether you’ve got young kiddos in tow or some serious mountain biking masters, right now is the time to bust out the bikes and hit the trails for some family cycling around the Comox Valley. Getting the whole crew out together can be something of a feat, especially if you’ve got kids at different levels in the bike riding universe.

But, that’s the beauty of the Valley – there are so many great locations where everyone at all levels can enjoy a great day on the bike. Here are some of the top family cycling routes in the Comox Valley for you to check out:

VERY EASY (these accommodate preschoolers with training wheels):

1. The Courtenay Riverway. This easy-to-get-to and accessible paved trail along the river out to the Courtenay Estuary is a lovely bike ride for the whole family any time of year. Whether you start up by Courtenay City Hall or take the loop at the Courtenay Air Park, there are lots of viewing spots, great loops and easy-going places to help the younger ones work on their biking skills. We like this ride as well because there are coffee huts and breakfast spots right along the way and it’s perfect when the crazies have hit at home and we need a quick escape.

2. Campbell River Sea Wall. While a bit farther drive, this paved path runs basically the length of the Campbell River waterfront South with access at multiple points along Highway 19A. It’s a gorgeous ride that makes for some serious sight seeing and a fun opportunity for a picnic or beach combing. There’s no loop, so you do have to double back or set a shuttle. But, this is a great peddle on a weekend afternoon.

EASY (for families who are all confident on two wheels):

1. Moe’s Misery Trail in Royston. This mixed-use dirt trail with logging roads and single tracks is great for the whole family that is on two wheels. There are some tough parts and elevations. But, it’s got a good loop and is a fun ride for different levels. You can access it from Royston or Cumberland.

2. Northeast Woods in Comox. Accessed behind Highland Secondary at Pritchard or Guthrie, this is a fun, if not a bit bumpy, loop of trails that is great for middle grade kids and families. A light introduction to mountain biking that is close to town, you can go for 20 minutes or two hours and not be disappointed.

3. Seal Bay Nature Park. This gorgeous, mostly flat ride through the swamps across Bates Road from the main parking area and trail head is outstanding family riding. You have to access the bike and horse-friendly trails through a trail head slightly down the road from the hiking trail head. But, it is well worth it to spend a lovely, shaded peddle in this gorgeous piece of wilderness. This is definitely a mountain biking trail, but with nothing too serious in terms of jumps or hazards – which makes it a super spot for families of all levels. Check out the review of this trail HERE.

MODERATE (A bit more challenging):

1. Mount Washington Bike Park. What more can I say? If you want some SERIOUS mountain biking family good times, Mount Washington is it. Check out the park HERE. I love that this is a great spot for taking half a family who wants to ride and half a family who has other outdoor activities in mind. There’s nothing like being able to accommodate the whole family!

2. Forbidden Plateau. With some of the best mountain biking options in the Comox Valley, Forbidden Plateau has a fantastic number of trails for different levels of riders. Check out updated maps and details on trails HERE.

3. Cumberland Community Forest. This collection of intermediate and advanced mountain biking trails is great fun close to town. Check out all of the options through Comox Valley Mountain Biking.

So, tune everything up and get outside for a great ride where you can explore the Comox Valley from a fun perspective.

Tags: bikes, children, Comox Valley, Cycling, family, Kids, Our Big Earth Media Co., riding, routes, Trails

Category: Find A Trail, OUT & ABOUT, Outdoor Family Activities