For casual cyclists, there’s some good riding to be had in Richmond.
I’d like to list some of the best I’ve found over the years, and hopefully there’s something new here for you to try. Keep in mind that most of these routes are shared with pedestrians, and because of that I strongly recommend having a bell on your bike to help let people know you’re coming.
• Away from it all: The jetty at Iona beach. Located on the north side of the airport, Iona beach is a great place for a relaxed ride alone or with friends. Riding out on the jetty and back is going to give you a 6-km ride of cool breeze and watching the planes land at YVR.
If you take your bikes out in your car, make sure to spend some time on foot around the beaches, it’s worth it.
• Back road maze: Crabapple Ridge. This is actually an on-road trail that extends from Chatham Street in Steveston and goes all the way to the river in Terra Nova. It’s mostly side roads with many connecting pathways.
It can get a little confusing as you need to pay attention to the signs telling you which way to turn, but they are well marked, and also have directions painted on the ground. People who like an adventure or even a little challenge will have fun here.
• Gravel wide open: If you want to get from Steveston to Terra Nova in a much simpler fashion and away from any traffic, then the West Dyke gravel trail that goes from Garry Point Park to the Oval and beyond is for you. Cows, turtles, coyotes and more to be seen here.
Even though this pathway is quite wide, its popularity means it can get quite congested in the evening, so make sure you have a bell!
• In the shade: The Shell Road Trail. This packed dirt trail starts at Woodward Landing at the dyke close to No. 5 Road. A nice, shady ride which then takes you down a stretch of Shell Road before tucking away under the cover of trees until you reach Alderbridge.
There isn’t much to see beyond this point, so heading back the way you came is your best bet.
• Riding with children: Many of the school parks have fun pathways great for parents and young ones. Some favourites include South Arm Park, Blundell School, Garden City School and King George Park. These pathways are long and give lots of visibility, as well as close proximity to playgrounds.
These paved pathways tend to be narrow, so again, make sure you and your children have a bell.
There’s lots more out there, so explore and have fun!
Geordie McGillivray is an avid Richmond cyclist. His Saddle Up column appears regularly in the Richmond News.
