Pic: Double Shutter Images
By Gagandeep Ghuman
Published: Jan. 15, 2014
Readers of Pedal Magazine have chosen Squamish as the best place to ride a bike in Canada in 2013.
“Squamish is known for its amazing mountain bike trails and many popular events, including the legendary Test of Metal,” said the magazine.
Speaking to the Vancouver Sun, Test of Metal founder Cliff Miller said Squamish prides itself for its diverse cross-country and downhill trail network.
It’s possible because of top-notch trail builders and dedicated volunteers.
“Receiving this award is an honour and is yet another validation of Squamish as the mountain bike capital of Canada,” he said.
Victoria, BC, finished second followed by a four-way tie for third between London, Ontario’s Forest City Velodrome, Valle Bras du Nord in Saint-Raymond, QC, Fernie, BC, and Rossland, BC.
Jim Harvey says
This is just another indication of why Squamish is undeniably the Outdoor Rec Capital of Canada. Check out http://www.sorca.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Economic-Impact-of-Mountain-Biking-in-Squamish.pdf, a recently completed economic impact study done by SORCA (a VOLUNTEER organization!) that amply demonstrates the economic impact of mountain biking in Squamish, and as pointed out, this achievement is due to the efforts of volunteers. Imagine what would happen if the rest of the community and Municipal government could also get behind supporting an investment in Outdoor Rec as a way of stimulating our local economy.
Dave says
Actually we are not doing badly. We have one the largest mountain biking events in North America and a pretty good trail system . We have water sports of great diversity with a kite boarding area par excellence, etc. etc. We did have initial opposition to the Gondola which has great potential for more careful expansion. We should do the same on the other side of the river too. We have to cut through some of the blinkered habitual opposition when it is merely for the sake of it and for, often the precious few. That does not mean we have to abuse the environment , just use it to it’s fullest and in a sensible well thought out manner. There should be co-ordinated planning of all of our outdoor opportunities. I would like to see the Alpine much more accessible, but also with all the protection needed….. and this does need the planning to be in place. Other countries do this very well and should serve as a guide.