The best gravel rides around Maple Ridge

Maple Ridge offers a selection of 15 gravel bike trails, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and a few more challenging routes to explore.

Yes, Maple Ridge is very welcoming for beginners. Many routes feature relatively low elevation gains and a mix of paved and well-maintained gravel paths. An excellent option for those starting out is the Fort-to-Fort Trail – Derby Reach Regional Park loop from Walnut Grove, which is rated as easy and takes you through pleasant parkland along the Fraser River.

For those looking for a longer ride, the Pitt River Bridge – Pitt River Dike Trail loop from Walnut Grove is a moderate 32.6-mile (52.5 km) path that primarily follows the Pitt River Dike, offering expansive views. Another substantial option is the Pitt River Bridge – Hyde Creek Salmon Hatchery loop from Pitt Meadows, which covers 26.9 miles (43.3 km).

While many routes in Maple Ridge are moderate, there is at least one route rated as difficult for those seeking more of a challenge. The North Alouette River – Alouette River loop from Maple Ridge, though not exceptionally long at 28.6 km, is categorized as difficult, suggesting it offers a more demanding experience.

The gravel bike trails in Maple Ridge are known for their diverse scenery, primarily featuring river dikes, lush parklands, and forested areas along the Pitt and Alouette Rivers. You'll often find open views of the rivers and surrounding wetlands, providing a tranquil and scenic backdrop for your ride.

Yes, several routes offer points of interest. For example, the Pitt River Bridge – Hyde Creek Salmon Hatchery loop from Pitt Meadows passes by the Hyde Creek Salmon Hatchery. You can also find highlights like the Fort-to-Fort Trail itself, or the Rolley Lake Boardwalk if you venture towards the lakes.

Maple Ridge's climate generally allows for gravel biking through much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, with some paths potentially becoming muddy or icy, especially in forested sections.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Maple Ridge are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Pitt River Dike Trail – Pitt River Bridge loop from Maple Meadows and the Fort-to-Fort Trail – Derby Reach Regional Park loop from Walnut Grove.

The gravel biking routes in Maple Ridge are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Riders frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic river views, and the accessibility of the trails for various skill levels.

You can expect a varied terrain in Maple Ridge, including a mix of paved sections, dedicated gravel paths, and some dirt roads. The routes often follow river dikes, which tend to be well-maintained. Conditions can change with weather, so it's always a good idea to check local forecasts, especially after heavy rain, which might affect dirt sections.

While many routes focus on rivers, you can find trails that lead to or near lakes. For instance, the Rolley Lake Boardwalk is a highlight in the area, and while not directly on a gravel bike route listed here, it indicates the presence of beautiful lake areas worth exploring nearby.