The Sunshine Coast is a place where getting a little bit of local knowledge goes a long way. Located a fourty minute ferry ride north of Vancouver BC, things tend to move just a little bit slower than in the city. Although it is not an island, the Sunshine Coast takes on the island mentality of ‘it’ll happen when it happens – don’t force it.’

Taking full advantage of the rare sunshine of the early British Columbia Spring, myself and a few friends recently took a trip over to take in some trails and  escape from the city. Taking the first ferry over on a cool Saturday morning meant that the four of us could take in a powdered egg – BC Ferries kick-start breakfast with the beautiful sunrise.

The day’s riding was to take place in the Roberts Creek area, home of some fabulous singletrack, incredible stunts and the Rat Race XC and DH courses. The riding ranges everywhere from XC to All Mountain, Freeride to DH. Really, there are trails here that can satisfy the pickiest of all cyclists.

Some of the highlight trails from the day’s riding were Surf’s Up – a fast flowing descent, Mach Chicken – the Rat Race DH course and Cunning Stunts. This last trail is like no other, built by local trail guru Graham MacDonald, it is about 600meters in length but don’t worry about getting your tires dirty as you are only on the ground for about 10. A winding maze of skinnies, teeters, bumps and jumps throwing in a few surprises along the way will challenge the best of riders but offer something for just about everyone. If you are in Roberts Creek, Check out this trail!

Nestled away from the city, the Sunshine Coast is a place that I will always feel an affinity toward. It is quiet and tucked away from the city yet only a stone’s throw away. For a weekend away look no further than the Sunshine Coast.

For more info on traveling in the area check out bigpacific.com

Dustan

*All Photos Courtesy of Kevin Jamieson.