In revising and updating this book we have explored new roads and trails and combined them to form new routes that fit our criteria for Easy Cycling around Vancouver. We have re-routed existing rides that have been altered by development or changes in road usage—everywhere becomes busier—and we have taken out some rides that are no longer satisfactory. We have added some more off-road cycling by making use of the expanding network of greenways and trails around Vancouver. We have also introduced one or two urban routes.
Like the previous edition, this book is designed to encourage beginning cyclists, families and older or perhaps “rusty” cyclists to get out on their bikes and explore at whatever level is appropriate for them. Our cycling philosophy remains the same: We cycle for pleasure and discovery. We do not aim to reach our destination in the shortest possible time; we stop when the fancy takes us. We don’t regard cycling as a sport or a challenge—although effort does go into it. Cycling is fun, inexpensive and kind to the environment. Best of all, it lifts the spirits to travel at the leisurely pace unique to this activity, exploring the byways on a personal journey of discovery.
The routes in Easy Cycling are just an example of the many options available. Perhaps some of you, after gaining experience and confidence from these rides, will be encouraged to join a local cycling club. Community centres, outdoor clubs and some bicycle shops organize group rides similar to those described in this book. The Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition organizes a series of Great Rides and other bike events throughout the year. Through organizations such as these, you will be introduced to the cycling possibilities around the city.
Do not be afraid to put together your own cycle tour, perhaps based on one or two of our rides in the Fraser Valley or Washington. Arm yourself with a detailed map (International Travel Maps & Books, 12300 Bridgeport Road in Richmond is a good source) and pick out some secondary roads to link up with the routes in Easy Cycling. Arrange convenient overnight accommodation along the way, pack your panniers and set off. You will have embarked on a freewheeling style of holiday that knows no boundaries.
The forty-five rides presented are short—between 10 and 45 kilometres. They are routed on paved roads, on good gravel surfaces and occasionally on informal trails. Most use safe, rural roads and avoid areas of heavy traffic as much as possible. Many are circular tours. You will notice that many of the rides are located in the Fraser Valley and northwestern Washington. We’ve tried to cover most areas around Vancouver in our collection, including Squamish to the north and Harrison to the east, but some parts of the Lower Mainland, though delightful, do not lend themselves to easy cycling. Similarly, we omit popular city cycle routes and paths (which are well covered in other books) because they fall outside our category of countrified tours.
A descriptive summary precedes each ride, enabling you to find a route that’s appropriate for your riding ability. A following paragraph gives an overview of the area or mentions places and facts of local interest. Sometimes optional routes or side trips are suggested. In most cases, the recommended lunch stop offers a picnic table or bench, often in a park. The Bicycles and Equipment section offers practical advice on bicycles, equipment and clothing, with hints on comfort for the beginning and out-of-practice cyclist. An important section on safety will help to reassure the fearful and encourage responsible cycling.
Researching and revising these rides has been a pleasure—there have been new neighbourhoods and byways to explore and beautiful parks and picnic spots to discover. What you make of the rides is up to you. The French have a delightful expression for being out and about on a bicycle: They describe it as being en vélo. We hope that you will enjoy being en vélo around Vancouver.