Mountain Biking the Alberni Valley

Discover one of Vancouver Island’s Best Mountain Biking Destinations

A top tier Vancouver Island destination for mountain biking of all skill levels and ages, the Alberni Valley boasts over 150km (and counting) of mountain biking trails and an avid, welcoming mountain biking community. Whether you are an experienced rider or new to the sport, you will find an extensive series of exciting and gratifying trails.

Alberni Valley’s Most Popular Trails

Source: Trailforks (Jake)

Fir Baby Trail

Skill Level: Beginner – Intermediate

Fir Baby is a relatively new trail within the Alberni Valley that was developed by local mountain bikers. The trail is also popular with trail runners and hikers due to the gentle grades and flowy trail features. Fir Baby winds its way through a mature forest and crosses numerous small creeks.

For mountain bikers, Fir Baby is an intermediate level flow trail with a number of natural features. Located close to town, the trail is popular with local riders and is well known for its fast turns. (source)

Source: Vancouver Island Trail

Log Train Trail

Skill Level: Beginner – Intermediate – Advanced

The historic Log Train Trail is a rail bed originally developed in the early 1900’s as part of the Bainbridge Mill rail-logging operation. The main section of the trail stretches for 25 kilometres along the foot of the Beaufort Range. Information on this primary section of the trail can be found at the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District.

The Roger Creek section has numerous entry and exit points, making it suitable for shorter and extended trips. Riders often connect this section of the trail to longer trips along the Log Train Trail to the north or connecting trails leading to Ship Creek Road and the nearby Alberni Inlet Trail.

Trail users can access at either the south or north end with parking available off Burde Street and the Port Alberni Highway. Aside from the Roger Creek ravine, the trail is level grade and therefore easily accessible. Descent into the ravine is steep so users are encouraged to exercise caution. (source)

Citizens Climb & Resurrection

Source: Trailforks (Kandaka)

Skill Level: Intermediate – Advanced

If you are looking for something a little more challenging with a true “mountain biking” vibe, the combination of Citizens Climb and Resurrection trail is unique.

Access Citizens Climb from Log Train Trail via Coombs Country Candy access area. This section is primarily uphill, with a few punchy spots, for about 3km and a 184m climb. It should take around 23min to complete. (source)

Once you arrive at the end of Citizens Climb you will see the access point for Resurrection. With lots of ups and downs, several ladder bridges, rock rolls and some fun flow. Resurrection makes for a good loop after climbing citizens climb. Total distance is 1.5km, mostly downhill (90m decent) and time to complete is about 15min. (source)

Riders of the Alberni Valley

Source: ROAV FaceBook

Having a strong supportive community is a great way to get into any new hobby, mountain biking is no exception. The Riders of the Alberni Valley is a non-for-profit community of avid mountain bikers. Their mandate:

Building and maintaining mountain bike trails in the Alberni Valley.
Outdoor recreation, healthy living and the positive spirit of mountain biking.
Stewardship of the environment and outdoors, advocating for the respect of our forests.
Building and facilitating relationships with landowners and local indigenous organizations.
Encouraging inclusivity and a diverse ridership.
Facilitating organized events including but not limited to: group rides, youth programming and races.

ROAV is a great first-place to start preparing for your two-wheel adventuring.

Learn more at: roav.ca | FaceBook | Instagram

Bike Sales and Maintenance

Whether you need a new mountain bike or you already have one and just want to ensure it’s running in optimal condition, check out these great local Port Alberni bike shops.

Jumping Slug Community Cyclery
Address: 4282 10th Ave, Port Alberni, BC (map)
Contact: 250 724-6556 | Email | Website
Hours: Tues – Sat 10:00AM – 5:30PM

Healthy Habits – Health Store and Bike Shop
Address: 2940 3rd Ave Port Alberni, BC (map)
Contact: 250-724-6280 | Email | Website
Hours: Mon – Sat 9:00AM – 5:30PM | Sun 11:00AM – 5:00PM