The boys over at Toyota BC got their rider–B.C.’s born and bred Thomas Vanderham–to throw down his top five spots to ride in B.C. We’re a little bummed the Kootenays didn’t make it, but we’ll just be sure to get Vanderham out here so he can sample some of the best (and most underrated) spots to ride in British Columbia.
1. Kamloops – Kamloops is the birthplace of free-riding. I grew up watching my idols ride down the huge ridge lines and spires that the area is known for, and eventually went there on a film shoot of my own. These days every time I ride in Kamloops I have a blast, the local riding scene is one of the strongest in the world!
2. North Vancouver– How could I leave out my backyard? The infamous trails of the North Shore have had a huge impact on the rider I am today. From all-day epics to shuttles, the Shore has a little bit of everything. To top it off you can ride here for almost the whole year!
3. Whistler – Whistler is the most visited mountain bike destination in the world. They play host to huge events like Crankworx and are known mostly for the machine built, lift access trails of the Whistler Bike Park. The rest of the valley, however, has a lot to offer to any rider willing to earn their descent.
4. Sunshine Coast – One quick ferry ride from Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast is a sleepy little mountain bike hotspot. A dedicated host of trail builders keep the trails fresh and the local university has a mountain bike diploma program; the only one of its kind.
5. Pemberton – Just north of Whistler but with a completely different type of terrain. Pemberton is much more dry and is at its best in the spring and the fall. Pemberton has great trails for both XC and DH riding as well as plenty of options for local organic eating when you’re done!
If you missed out, check out our DreamRide BC video we did with Thomas… and thanks to NSMB for doing a great job documenting the day. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to win stuff; literally — from your friends at Toyota BC…
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