The best traffic-free bike rides in Mount Revelstoke National Park

There are four dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes within Mount Revelstoke National Park featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and challenging options, allowing cyclists to explore the park's diverse landscapes away from vehicle traffic.

The best time for touring cycling in Mount Revelstoke National Park is typically from late spring to early autumn. July and August are particularly popular, as the subalpine wildflower meadows along routes like the Meadows in the Sky Parkway are in full bloom. Riding early or late in the day is often recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths.

Yes, for an easy and scenic ride suitable for families, consider the Columbia River – Illecillewaet Greenbelt loop from Revelstoke. This 15.2 km route is mostly paved and offers pleasant riverside views through cottonwood and spruce forests. Another great option is the Illecillewaet River loop from Revelstoke, a 13.8 km paved ride also suitable for all fitness levels.

Experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge can tackle routes with significant elevation gain. The Big Eddy Bridge – Columbia River loop from Revelstoke Airport is a difficult 30.9 km route with over 600 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Frisby Ridge loop from Jordan River, which covers 21.7 km with over 700 meters of climbing.

Yes, all four routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Columbia River – Illecillewaet Greenbelt loop from Revelstoke and the Illecillewaet River loop from Revelstoke, both offering convenient loop experiences.

While the specific routes in this guide focus on lower-elevation, traffic-free paths, the broader Mount Revelstoke National Park is renowned for its panoramic views. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway, though not entirely traffic-free, offers seven roadside lookouts with spectacular vistas of the Monashee and Selkirk mountains. For views of Jade Lake, you can explore the highlight Views of Jade Lake.

Yes, the park is rich in natural features. You can visit the Broken Bridge Waterfall, which is part of a 2 km round trip hike through dense forest. Another unique experience is the Giant Cedars Boardwalk, a short interpretive trail winding through ancient Western Red Cedars, some over 500 years old.

The terrain varies from mostly paved surfaces on the easier riverside loops to more challenging climbs on routes like the Big Eddy Bridge – Columbia River loop, which features over 600 meters of elevation gain. The easier routes, such as the Columbia River – Illecillewaet Greenbelt loop, have minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for a wider range of cyclists.

While the routes themselves might not directly pass by all lakes, the park offers several beautiful lake destinations. Eva Lake and Miller Lake are popular hiking destinations within the park, offering serene spots for a break and incredible scenery. These can be explored as separate activities before or after your ride.

Yes, Mount Revelstoke National Park requires an entrance fee for all visitors, including cyclists. This fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of the park's facilities and natural environment. It's advisable to check the Parks Canada website for current fee structures and any specific permit requirements before your visit.

Mount Revelstoke National Park offers a unique cycling experience due to its dramatic transition of ecosystems, from dense inland temperate rainforests at lower elevations to subalpine wildflower meadows higher up. The opportunity to cycle through such varied and pristine natural environments, especially on dedicated no-traffic routes, provides a truly immersive and peaceful outdoor adventure.