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The Riding
Squamish has one of the most extensive municipal trail systems in Canada thanks to a dedicated group of volunteer trail builders and strong community support . There are 125 maintained trails in the region (approximately 350 km of trails), which are spread across four areas. Squamish is well known for its technical singletrack trails, which feature grueling climbs, wicked descents, and incredible scenery. While the trails are challenging, there are a large number of trails geared towards intermediate riders. Mountain Bike Magazine has rated Squamish as one of the top 25 wildest and exotic places to ride in the world.
Each June, the town hosts the Squamish Mountain Biking Festival and the epic 67km cross-country race, the Test of Metal, which includes 1,200 meters of climbing and 35km of technical singletrack. Entries are capped at 800 and the 2005 race soldout in the first week of January. There are several other races and mountain biking events held in Squamish over the summer. Check out www.tantalusbikeshop.com and www.corsacycles.com for more information on upcoming events.
There is also a vibrant freeriding scene in Squamish. Trails feature log rides, ramps, teetertotters, and skybridges.
The Destination
Squamish (population 15,000) is located half way between Vancouver and Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway (approximately one hour's drive from Vancouver). Located on a river estuary at the end of Howe Sound and surrounded by mountains, Squamish has recently been declared the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada. Squamish is surrounded by spectacular scenery and offers rock climbing on the massive granite monolith, the Stawamus Chief, in addition to river and sea kayaking, river rafting, hiking, and windsurfing. There are 9 provincial parks in the area. Accommodations range from camping through full-service inns and hotels. Squamish also has its own brew pub, a popular destination for the aprés-ride crowd.
*It is important that you are aware that riding on the North Shore, in Squamish, and in Whistler is very different than what you may be used to. Due to the climate and topography of the Coast Mountain range, trails can be very steep and rugged. Be aware that the risk of injury is considerable.
North Shore | Squamish | Whistler | Kamloops | Spruce Lake
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