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Vanislander / Activities / Cycling / Cycling in Victoria

Cycling in Victoria

Ever dreamed of cycling where ocean breezes kiss your face and mountain vistas frame your ride? Cycling in Victoria BC delivers that and more. From the serene Lochside Regional Trail to the adrenaline-pumping Sooke/Otter Point Loop, Victoria’s compact layout and stunning geography make it a top destination for cycling tours Victoria. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the top cycling routes Victoria provides, offering practical advice on preparation, safety, and local gems. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, get ready to explore the best cycling routes Victoria has in store.

History of Cycling in Victoria

Cycling Victoria BC is rooted in a fascinating history tied to its railway past. The Galloping Goose Regional Trail, a 55 km gem, began as a Canadian Northern Pacific Railway line in 1922, ferrying passengers and mail from Victoria to Sooke. By 1931, passenger service ceased, but freight rolled on until the 1950s. In 1987, the Capital Regional District transformed it into a paved trail, opening to the public in 1988—a milestone in Victoria cycling history. Similarly, the Lochside Regional Trail traces its origins to a 1915 railway line, evolving into a 33 km path connecting Victoria to Swartz Bay. The E&N Trail, launched in 2009, follows the Esquimalt & Nanaimo line, operational from 1883 to 2011, adding a 9 km stretch to Victoria’s cycling legacy.
 Local visionaries and cycling clubs Victoria, like the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition, have nurtured this heritage, turning industrial relics into recreational treasures. These trails reflect Victoria’s knack for blending history with modern-day cycling on Vancouver Island, making it a hub for enthusiasts worldwide.

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Getting To Victoria

Victoria, located on Vancouver Island’s southern tip, is easily accessible by ferry for cyclists. BC Ferries operates routes from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (Victoria) and from Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) to Nanaimo, with a connecting bus service to Victoria. Washington State Ferries also run from Anacortes (Seattle) to Sidney, near Victoria. All these services welcome bikes, often with dedicated bike lanes on board, making it convenient for cyclists to bring their own. Victoria’s compact, walkable size means you can start cycling shortly after arrival, exploring routes like the Inner Harbour to Esquimalt loop or the Coastline Cruise.
Bike Rentals: For those without a bike, rentals are plentiful. Cycle BC Rentals and Tours Victoria BC offers hybrids and e-bikes for $30–$50 per day, catering to various needs. Other local shops, such as Fort Street Cycle Victoria (Fort Street Cycle) and Broad Street Cycles Victoria (Broad Street Cycles), provide similar services, ensuring you can find the right bike for routes like the Saanich Peninsula Tour or Mount Douglas Park rides. These rentals often include helmets and maps, enhancing your cycling experience.

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Geography and Terrain of Victoria’s Cycling Routes

Victoria’s geography is a cyclist’s dream, perched on the Saanich Peninsula with the Salish Sea’s Strait of Juan de Fuca to the south and Haro Strait to the east. This prime location offers scenic waterfront paths with views of the Olympic Mountains and San Juan Islands, as seen on the Coastline Cruise. The terrain varies, catering to all skill levels:
1.Flat Coastal Trails: The Galloping Goose and Lochside trails provide smooth, paved surfaces with minimal elevation—ideal for leisure cycling or beginners.
2.Rolling Hills: The Tour of Victoria loops through neighborhoods with gentle climbs, like King George Terrace, balancing challenge and accessibility.
3.Rugged Highlands: The Tour of the Highlands and Highlands/Humpback Loop feature steep ascents through forested parks, peaking at Mount Work (450 m).
 Natural highlights include Garry oak meadows in Beacon Hill Park, windswept cliffs along Dallas Road, and dense coniferous forests in East Sooke Park. Whether you’re on gravel or pavement, Victoria cycling routes offer a dynamic mix of surfaces and elevations.

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Types of Cycling Available in Victoria

Victoria caters to every cycling style, each showcasing its unique landscape:
1.Road Cycling: Tackle paved routes like the Tour of Victoria (47 km) or the epic Victoria to Jordan River (146 km), blending urban streets with rural charm.
2.Leisure Cycling: Enjoy flat, traffic-free trails like the Galloping Goose and Lochside, perfect for relaxed scenic bike paths through farmland or waterfronts.
3.Mountain Biking: Explore rugged trails in the Highlands or Sooke Hills, such as the Highlands/Humpback Loop, for a taste of mountain biking Victoria.
 From speed to serenity to adrenaline, cycling tours Victoria have it all.

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Vancouver Island Activities

Cowichan Valley Trail

Cowichan Valley Trail

Picture yourself gliding along a gravel path, the scent of cedar in the air, as the Cowichan River sparkles through the trees. Cycling on the Cowichan Valley Trail is an invitation to immerse yourself in the soul of Southern Vancouver Island. This spectacular multi-use trail, a former railway line, stretches over more than 60 km of rail trail, connecting Duncan to Lake Cowichan with a gentle, beginner-friendly grade. From the awe-inspiring Historic Kinsol Trestle to serene meadows dotted with wildflowers, the cycling routes Cowichan Valley Trail offers are a cyclist’s dream. Whether you’re a family seeking a leisurely outing or an adventurer eyeing the 190km figure-eight bikepacking route, this guide provides everything you need—detailed Cowichan Valley Trail map insights, cycling safety tips, and local secrets—to plan an unforgettable cycling tours Cowichan Valley Trail adventure.

Solo Travel in Victoria

Solo Travel in Victoria

Victoria, British Columbia, is a gem for solo travelling Victoria on Vancouver Island, offering a perfect blend of historic charm, natural splendor, and vibrant culture. Ranked among the top 10 cities in Canada to travel to solo, this city is generally safe and welcoming, making it ideal for adventurers seeking a solo travel Victoria BC experience. From the bustling Inner Harbour to the serene Butchart Gardens, Victoria invites you to explore at your own pace. This guide, inspired by real traveler experiences and official sources, covers everything you need—transportation, accommodations, activities, safety, and budgeting—for the best solo travel Victoria adventure. Ready to fly solo for a weekend? From hiking to dining, check out our guide!

Camping in Helen Mackenzie Lake Campground

Camping in Helen Mackenzie Lake Campground

When you do not expect it at all, endless excitement on Helen Mackenzie Lake will strike you. There, campers would experience backcountry camping, and all the amenities and convenient facilities that enthusiasts may need are provided. You will be fascinated by breathtaking views and various flora and fauna. It has trails through beautiful meadows by the crystal water while the mountain is spreading upfront.

Camping in the Green Point Campground - Long Beach Unit

Camping in the Green Point Campground - Long Beach Unit

Fulfill your camping desires by camping in a proper place. In the Green Point Campground - Long Beach Unit, you can enjoy one of the best recreational camping within the spacious, clean, and gorgeous campsites with excellent facilities. The atmosphere makes the area fantastic for camping, and tent sites and RV sites are available with a superb rainforest environment.

Island View Beach Kiteboarding

Island View Beach Kiteboarding

Meet your inner kiteboarder while you are on Island View Beach. A beautiful sandy beach, offering undeniable opportunities for adventure. Kiteboarding facilities provided for you will fulfill your expectations. Moreover, abundant birds are observable, and you can enjoy several outdoor activities offered for you on this cute sandy beach.

Cadboro Bay Windsurfing

Cadboro Bay Windsurfing

If you have never been to Cadboro Bay, you must know that this marvellous place offering suitable conditions and facilities is an ideal spot for those in love with windsurfing. The Bay's proximity to Cadboro-Gyro Park is the reason why adventure never dies in that region. While you are enjoying one, many others are awaiting you in the field to be experienced.

Sproat Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Sproat Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Do not save money only to pay the bill. Spend it on the adventure and see how awesome it feels. The warm waters of Sproat Lake absorb many visitors from all around the world, those fans of water activities in particular. Sproat Lake wakeboarding and waterskiing facilities increase the attractiveness of the lake.

Solo Travel in Tofino

Solo Travel in Tofino

Tofino, British Columbia, is a breathtaking coastal haven on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, often described as a beautiful village that captivates the hearts of solo travelers. Spanning just 10.5 square kilometers, this tiny district on Vancouver Island is a paradise of windswept beaches, ancient rainforests, and a vibrant surf culture, making it one of the best solo travel Tofino destinations in Canada. Whether you’re a woman embarking on a solo travel to Tofino female adventure, a senior seeking solitude, or an adrenaline junkie craving a month-long solo surf trip, Tofino’s unique blend of accessibility, safety, and natural wonder makes it an ideal choice.
Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves at Long Beach, hiking through the moss-draped cedars of Pacific Rim National Park, or sipping a latte at a cozy, café as the Pacific Ocean’s mist rolls in. Tofino’s appeal lies in its compact size, easy to navigate solo, paired with its welcoming community of fewer than 2,000 residents, who embody a laid-back, outdoor-loving spirit. With a low crime rate and a reputation for hospitality, Tofino offers a stress-free solo travel Tofino experience.
What sets Tofino apart? It’s a place where you can paddle through Clayoquot Sound’s serene waters, spot orcas on a whale-watching tour, or unwind with a craft beer at Tofino Brewing Company, all on your own terms. From its world-renowned surfing to its Indigenous cultural heritage, Tofino is a solo trip idea Canada that promises adventure and introspection. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or an extended Tofino trip, this guide will equip you with everything you need to make it unforgettable.

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

As one of the highest points of Vancouver Island, Mount Adrian offers great snowmobiling, among other winter activities. It has two summits that feature Strathcona Provincial Park in every direction—looking for a place to have winter excitement? Nowhere is better than Mount Adrian.

Tofino Whale Watching

Tofino Whale Watching

Make your adventure worthwhile on Vancouver Island by visiting Tofino and not missing its whale-watching opportunities for the world. You may have the chance to gaze upon Orcas, the most widespread marine mammal on the earth. Clayoquot Sound, located near the Tofino, is a sandy shoreline with rich rainforest.

Route Descriptions

Cycling in Victoria offers routes for every rider, from gentle urban loops to rugged coastal treks. Below, we detail four iconic options—Beacon Hill Park Loop, Victoria Shoreline Ride, Saanich Peninsula Tour, and Coastline Cruise—covering type, difficulty, distance, elevation, terrain, and highlights. These are among the best cycling routes Victoria has to offer, perfect for your Victoria cycling route map.
Explore these via cycling tours Victoria or solo—each offers a unique slice of Victoria cycling.


Route

Distance

Level

Terrain

Highlights

Description

Tour of Victoria

47 km / 29 mi

Easy to moderate

Paved roads, gentle hills

Beacon Hill Park, Oak Bay Marina, Mount Douglas Park, Inner Harbour

Starting at Beacon Hill Park, this loop circles Greater Victoria, passing Ross Bay Cemetery, Cadboro Bay Village, and Saxe Point Park. A climb up King George Terrace offers stunning ocean views—a top pick for Victoria cycling routes.

Coastline Cruise

28 km / 17.5 mi (one way), 44 km / 27 mi (loop)

Moderate

Paved, steep climbs

King George Terrace lookout, Oak Bay Marina, Mount Douglas Park beach

This scenic bike path traces the coast, offering Olympic Mountain vistas. Extend via Lochside Drive for a rewarding loop back to Beacon Hill.

Tour of the Highlands

36 km / 22 mi

Strenuous

Hilly, narrow roads

Gowlland-Tod Provincial Park, Mount Work, Francis/King forest

A challenging ride through forested highlands, ideal for mountain biking Victoria enthusiasts seeking solitude and park access.

Tour of the Saanich Peninsula

66 km / 41 mi

Moderate

Paved, rolling hills

Haro Strait views, Deep Cove, Lands End Road

This coastal loop showcases rural charm and stunning water views, a favorite among cycling clubs Victoria.

Galloping Goose Regional Trail

55 km / 34 mi (one way)

Easy

Paved, flat

Selkirk Trestle, Roche Cove, Sooke River

A historic railway-turned-trail, this is one of the best bike trails Victoria offers for beginners.

Lochside Regional Trail

33 km / 20.5 mi (one way)

Easy

Paved, flat

Blenkinsop Trestle, Tulista Park, Sidney

Connecting Victoria to Swartz Bay, this scenic waterfront path is perfect for cycling tours Victoria.

E&N Trail/Royal Roads U/Galloping Goose Loop

35 km / 22 mi

Easy to moderate

Paved, gentle slopes

Hatley Castle, Selkirk Trestle, Esquimalt Lagoon

A blend of urban and parkland riding, exploring Royal Roads University’s historic grounds.

Highlands/Humpback/Galloping Goose Loop

38 km / 24 mi

Moderate to strenuous

Paved and gravel, steep descents

Goldstream Provincial Park, Sooke Hills, Finlayson Arm

A hilly adventure with a thrilling descent, blending wilderness and trail riding.

Metchosin/East Sooke Loop

43 km / 27 mi

Moderate to strenuous

Hilly, paved

Roche Cove, East Sooke Park, Witty’s Lagoon

A scenic, challenging ride through regional parks with ocean views, crossing the Galloping Goose thrice.

Sooke/Otter Point Loop

111 km / 67 mi

Strenuous

Hilly, twisty roads

Hatley Park, Otter Point vistas, Roche Cove

A roller-coaster ride along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, testing endurance for cycling Victoria BC.

Victoria to Jordan River

146 km / 90.8 mi

Moderate to strenuous

Paved, hilly

Shirley café, French Beach, Jordan River surf spot

Nearly a century ride, this rugged West Coast route is a staple for cycling clubs Victoria.

Victoria/Shawnigan Lake via The Malahat

92 km / 57 mi

Strenuous

Paved, steep climbs

Malahat Drive views, Shawnigan Lake, Goldstream Park

A fitness test with relentless hills and panoramic Saanich Inlet vistas.

Beyond the Trails

  • Enrich your cycling tours Victoria with these stops:

    • Inner Harbour: Marvel at Rattenbury’s Empress Hotel and legislative buildings, or enjoy buskers on the causeway.

    • Beacon Hill Park: Unwind amid gardens and clifftop walkways.

    • Oak Bay Marina: Refuel at the café with marina views.

    • Chinatown & Fan Tan Alley: Explore Canada’s narrowest street (1 m wide).

    • Sooke’s 17 Mile Pub: Savor a historic coachhouse meal post-ride.

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Enhancing Your Cycling Experience in Victoria

Beginner-Friendly Routes in Victoria

Victoria’s extensive trail network is a dream for beginners, offering flat, safe, and scenic options. Here are the top picks:
Galloping Goose Regional Trail: This 55 km gem is a flat, paved, car-free trail stretching from Victoria to Sooke. Starting at the Johnson Street Bridge, it’s perfect for beginner cycling routes Victoria with its gentle terrain and picturesque mix of urban waterfront and rural countryside.
Lochside Regional Trail: A 33 km paved path linking Victoria to Swartz Bay, this trail is equally beginner-friendly. It’s flat, off-road, and dotted with charming stops like Sidney’s waterfront. Ideal for leisure cycling, it offers a relaxed pace and easy navigation.
Bonus Route - E&N Trail: For a shorter ride, this 9 km paved urban trail winds through Victoria’s suburbs. It’s flat, accessible, and a great warm-up for novices.
Why They’re Perfect for Beginners:
 No Hills: Flat profiles mean less effort and more enjoyment.
 Smooth Paths: Paved surfaces ensure a comfortable ride without technical skills.
 Safety First: Separated from traffic, these trails prioritize rider security.
 New cyclists can also try the Inner Harbour loop for a quick, scenic spin or the Dallas Road path for ocean breezes—both are short and manageable.

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Costs

To help you plan financially, here’s a breakdown of the key expenses you might encounter on your cycling trip to Victoria:
 Bike Rentals: If you’re not bringing your own bike, bike rentals Victoria are widely available. Prices typically range from $30 to $60 per day, depending on the bike type—hybrids for casual rides, road bikes for speed, or e-bikes for extra support. Top rental spots like Cycle BC and The Pedaler are conveniently located near the Inner Harbour. Pro Tip: Reserve your bike online during peak season (May-September) to avoid shortages.
 Ferry from Vancouver: For those traveling from the mainland, the BC Ferries route from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay costs $17-$20 one-way for foot passengers, with a small additional fee (around $2-$3) if you bring a bike. Visit BC Ferries for current fares and schedules.
Accommodations: Victoria offers bike-friendly lodging options to suit various budgets. Mid-range hotels or B&Bs near cycling hubs like the Inner Harbour or Saanich run $100-$200 per night. Budget travelers can find hostels for less, while luxury options near scenic routes might exceed this range. Look for places with bike storage for added convenience.
Food and Snacks: Expect to spend $15-$30 per meal at local eateries. Cyclist-friendly stops like Moka House in Cook Street Village or Willows Beach Tea Room offer affordable, tasty options to recharge during your ride.
 Extras: Budget for gear (e.g., helmets or repair kits, $50-$100 total) and optional cycling tours Victoria ($80-$120), which often include rentals and guided experiences. Small emergency costs, like a flat tire repair at a local shop, might add $10-$20.
 With these figures in mind, you can tailor your budget for a stress-free trip exploring Victoria cycling routes.

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Physical Preparation

Get ready for cycling on Vancouver Island with:
 Endurance: Train with 20-30 km rides for routes like the Tour of the Saanich Peninsula.
 Hill Training: Practice climbs for strenuous trails like the Malahat Drive.
 Stretching: Avoid cramps on long cycling routes Victoria.

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Gear and Equipment

To conquer Victoria cycling routes, pack these essentials:
 Bike: Hybrids suit mixed trails like the Galloping Goose, while road bikes shine on the Tour of Victoria. Rent from bike rentals Victoria shops for $30-$60/day.
 Helmet: Mandatory under BC law—opt for a snug, certified fit.
 Clothing: Bright, reflective gear enhances visibility on best bike trails Victoria.
 Lights: White front and red rear lights are required for low-light rides.
 Repair Kit: Bring a pump, spare tube, and tire levers for longer routes like the Sooke/Otter Point Loop.
 Hydration: Water and snacks are crucial for endurance rides like Victoria to Jordan River.

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What you Can Expect to See Near Victoria

Tahsis

Tahsis

Tahsis is an accessway to many hiking trails. This village municipality is situated at the top of the steep-sided Tahsis Inlet and is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness and abundant wildlife. Some of the best water activities like ocean kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, recreational fishing or sport fishing, scuba diving, and kiteboarding are popular.

Sutton Range

Sutton Range

The Sutton Range is a group of mountains and a subrange of the Vancouver Island Ranges that form the greater Insular Mountains. The amazing rock formation and alpine scale make the mountains within the range perfect for climbing. While you're atop Sutton Peak, Victoria Peak, Warden Peak, and mainland coast mountains are within your sight.

Sophia Range

Sophia Range

The Sophia Range is a low small group of mountains on Nootka Island. Visiting the range would be fascinating overlooking inlets. The spectacular sights of the hills wrapped in trees ornamented with beautiful wildlife and birds are amazing while ascending. The range and the nearby park are a wealth of outdoor activities as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Artlish Caves

Artlish Caves

As it is said, "A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence." Did you know it takes a long process for a cave to be created? Artlish Caves is no exception. It is the largest active river cave in Canada, and the running water is why these series of caves were carved out from the ground, which is still happening. While you are inside the caves, sharpen your eyes to find bats, spiders, and other creatures in the darkness.

Coral Cave

Coral Cave

If you desire to search for hidden parts of nature to discover exciting facts, Coral Cave is a suitable option. Before stepping into it, you need to have caving skills. The beauty of the cave is doubled by the stunning rainforest that surrounded the entrance. While you are inside, you may see the flooded parts of the cave. Let's get into it to find more and realize the time effect for thousands or millions of years.

Thanksgiving Cave

Thanksgiving Cave

Devote more time, get a challenging goal for yourself, and pack your equipment. It is time to face the longest and deepest cave on Vancouver Island, Thanksgiving Cave. Caving inside this mostly tight and beautiful cave is not a beginner's suitable exploration, but for an expert caver, the adventurers' rush worth any trouble. If you are a beginner, don't worry. Tahsis is the caving capital of Canada, so you have different chances nearby.

Upana Caves

Upana Caves

Going deep into the forest is worthy enough to visit the stunning Upana Caves. Listen to the sound of a river passing by and detect several entrances with the famous one behind the spectacular Upana Caves Waterfall. Inside entrances, you may find birds' nests. Watch the evidence of years of existence by holes like the one in cheese. The stunning galleries and passages you'll explore while going down would be incredible.

Genevieve Range

Genevieve Range

The Genevieve Range offers a fascinating tour within Nootka Island with spectacular sights for mountaineers. The range's area is a remote paradise for those seeking peace and seclusion. While ascending peaks, the range allows breath-taking sights of the ocean, enormous trees below your feet covering hills along with lakes and creeks dotted the area and plenty of wildlife.

Haihte Range

Haihte Range

The Haihte Range overlooking Tahsis and Zeballos is home to some of the largest remaining glaciers on Vancouver Island. It experiences many cloudy days due to being close to the coast. The high terrain, including long aesthetic lines, is perfect for skiing at the lower glacier shelves, and visitors would enjoy excellent alpine climbing at jagged spires along the main ridge.

Best Time to Cycle in Victoria, British Columbia

Best Overall Months: June, July, and August are the prime times to cycle in Victoria, offering warm weather, dry trails, and maximum accessibility. These months are perfect for enjoying scenic routes and comfortable rides.

Best for Fewer Crowds: May and September strike a balance between good weather and quieter trails, ideal for a more relaxed experience.

Challenging but Possible: December to February cater to adventurous cyclists willing to tackle cold, wet conditions with proper preparation.

This guide ensures you can plan your Victoria cycling adventure with confidence, choosing the time that best matches your preferences for weather, trail conditions, and crowd levels. Enjoy exploring the city’s beautiful cycling routes!

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

March

Mild temperatures (avg. 10°C), moderate rainfall

Trails open, some may be muddy

Prepare for wet conditions; less crowded

April

Warming temperatures (avg. 12°C), decreasing rainfall

Trails in good condition

Good time for cycling; moderate weather

May

Rising temperatures (avg. 15°C), lower rainfall

Trails mostly dry

Great time for cycling; increasing number of cyclists

June

Warm temperatures (avg. 18°C), minimal rainfall

Trails in excellent condition

One of the best times to cycle; moderate crowds

July

Peak temperatures (avg. 20°C), rare rainfall

Trails dry and well-maintained

Peak season; expect more cyclists

August

Warm temperatures (avg. 20°C), low rainfall

Trails in good condition

Excellent month for cycling; busy trails

September

Cooling temperatures (avg. 17°C), slight increase in rainfall

Trails still in good condition

Good time with fewer crowds; prepare for variable weather

October

Dropping temperatures (avg. 13°C), increasing rainfall

Trails may be muddy

Prepare for wet conditions; less crowded

November

Cooler temperatures (avg. 10°C), higher rainfall

Some trails may be closed for maintenance

Less favorable conditions; check trail status

December

Cold temperatures (avg. 7°C), frequent rainfall

Some trails may be closed; muddy conditions

Challenging cycling conditions; least crowded

January

Cold temperatures (avg. 7°C), frequent rainfall

Trails may be muddy and difficult to navigate

Difficult cycling conditions; prepare for wet weather

February

Slightly warmer temperatures (avg. 8°C), decreasing rainfall

Trails improving but may still be wet

Transitional month; conditions begin to improve

Frequently Asked Questions About Cycling in Victoria

A detailed Victoria cycling map is available through the Capital Regional District (CRD) website, offering comprehensive guides to paved bike trails Victoria BC like the Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails. Local bike shops such as Fort Street Cycle Victoria (Fort Street Cycle) and Broad Street Cycles Victoria (Broad Street Cycles) provide printed maps, including routes like the 47km Inner Harbour to Esquimalt loop and the 28km Coastline Cruise. These maps highlight scenic waterfront paths and long-distance rural riding routes, perfect for cycling tours in Victoria.
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Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 February 19

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