The best MTB trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site

The Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site offers a selection of 19 mountain bike trails. The majority of these, 17 routes, are considered difficult, with 2 moderate options available for those seeking a slightly less intense ride.

You can expect a diverse range of terrain, from 'tree rooted' singletrack on trails like the Ancient Cedars Trail, to more technical and rugged sections, particularly on routes designated with a 'Black Diamond' difficulty. The area spans 778 hectares of rocky, dry forest, offering varied topography.

While the majority of trails in the Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site are rated as difficult, the Ancient Cedars Trail itself features a 'tree rooted' singletrack with an easy grade, making it suitable for a wider range of riders, including families looking for a less strenuous experience.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can ride through the awe-inspiring Ancient Cedars Grove, home to massive red and yellow cedars over 750 years old. Along the Ancient Cedars Trail, you'll also discover a picturesque small waterfall. The trails also offer scenic views of the three serene Showh Lakes and the surrounding forest.

Yes, there are several circular mountain bike routes. For example, you can explore the Out There Trail loop from Riverside Dispersed Camping, which is a difficult 8.8 km ride. Another option is the challenging Green Lake – Howler loop from Emerald Estates, covering 18.4 km.

The area is particularly vibrant in autumn when the forest floor flourishes with a variety of mushrooms. However, be aware that mosquitoes can be prevalent from June to August. For the most comfortable riding experience, consider visiting outside of peak mosquito season.

The trails in Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders often praise the remote backcountry feel, the stunning ancient cedar groves, and the challenging yet rewarding technical singletrack sections.

One of the longer routes available is the Whistler Welcome Sign – Happiest Days (Upper) loop from Emerald Estates. This difficult trail spans 23.1 km (14.4 miles) and features an elevation gain of 454 meters (1,490 feet), typically taking about 2 hours and 1 minute to complete.

While most trails are difficult, there are a couple of moderate options. The Ancient Cedars Trail itself offers sections with an easy grade, and the overall recreation site includes 2 routes specifically rated as moderate, providing a good stepping stone for those building their skills.

Yes, parking is available at the recreation site. However, it's important to note that access roads to the site can be rough and potholed, with a 4x4 vehicle often recommended for reaching the lakes and trailheads, especially the forest service road leading directly to Showh Lakes.

The Showh Lakes-Ancient Cedars Trail Recreation Site is a remote area, so you might encounter various wildlife. While specific sightings are not guaranteed, the diverse forest and lake environments support a range of animals. Be mindful of your surroundings and respect their natural habitat.

Absolutely. The recreation site, situated at the base and on the side of Cougar Mountain, offers opportunities for stunning views. There's a lookout point providing scenic vistas of Showh Lake, and some trails also present beautiful views of snowy mountains and the Soo Valley.