Best Biking Routes on Southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia.
Discover top biking routes near downtown Victoria and across South Vancouver Island. From scenic urban paths to wild mountain trails, these rides offer unforgettable adventures.
If you’re an adventure traveller with a passion for two wheels, Southern Vancouver Island delivers a rider’s paradise. With its combination of lush forests, rugged coastlines, and scenic cityscapes, the region offers everything from leisurely loops near downtown Victoria to technical singletrack and cross-country mountain biking.
Whether you’re exploring from the comfort of the Oswego Hotel or venturing deep into the island’s trail systems, this guide highlights some of the best biking routes for cyclists of all skill levels!
Urban Cycling Adventures: Close to The Oswego Hotel
Dallas Road Waterfront Route
Just minutes from the Oswego Hotel, Dallas Road’s waterfront offers a stunning cycling route. Stretching from Ogden Point to Clover Point, this path features panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and Olympic Mountains. It’s ideal for casual riders or those easing into their trip with a scenic cruise.
Combine this route with Beacon Hill Park’s winding lanes for a relaxed yet picturesque ride.
Galloping Goose Regional Trail
Accessible from downtown Victoria, the Galloping Goose is a former railway line converted into a 55-kilometre multi-use trail. The urban section takes riders past the Inner Harbour and out through Vic West, eventually entering rural landscapes and forests as it extends toward Sooke.
It’s a smooth, well-maintained path perfect for hybrid or gravel bikes and is a great way to experience both the city and the countryside.
E&N Rail Trail
Intersecting with the Galloping Goose, the E&N Rail Trail (also known by locals as the Humpback Connector) offers an additional 17 kilometres of paved riding. This route runs through Esquimalt and View Royal, and is well-suited for those who enjoy longer, connected urban rides.
Photo credit: BC Rail Trails
It’s especially popular with commuters and touring cyclists looking to explore Greater Victoria without venturing too far from their home base.
Beyond the City: South Island Trails for the Adventurous Cyclist
Hartland Mountain Bike Park (aka Mount Work MTB Trails)
Located about 25 minutes north of downtown Victoria in the Highlands, Hartland Mountain Bike Park is the South Island’s premier destination for mountain biking. It features a dense network of trails ranging from beginner-friendly loops to black-diamond technical descents.
Photo credit: @southislandmountainbikesociety on Instagram
Managed by the South Island Mountain Bike Society (SIMBS), Hartland is a must-visit for serious trail riders. Be sure to bring your full-suspension bike and check the trail map beforehand.
Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail
For a wilder experience, the Sooke Hills Wilderness Trail offers a backcountry-style ride through dense forest and rolling hills. This route connects with the Galloping Goose and introduces steeper gradients, gravel surfaces, and panoramic viewpoints.
Photo credit: Victoria CRD
It’s best suited to gravel bikes or mountain bikes and provides a true West Coast adventure without requiring a multi-day excursion.
Thetis Lake Regional Park
Thetis Lake’s network of trails offers something for both recreational and intermediate riders. Just 20 minutes from downtown, this area is known for its lake views, mixed forest terrain, and moderate singletrack.
Photo credit: Victoria Trails
It’s an excellent place for a half-day ride followed by a swim or picnic, particularly in the warmer months.
Cowichan Valley Trail (Part of the Great Trail / Trans Canada Trail)
Located an hour north of Victoria, the Cowichan Valley Trail is a favourite among gravel and touring cyclists. This scenic, unpaved route features trestle bridges, river crossings, and old-growth forests.
Photo credit: Cowichan Valley Regional District
Sections like the Kinsol Trestle are especially popular for their dramatic views and historical significance. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to pair physical challenge with natural beauty.
Planning Your Ride
Southern Vancouver Island’s varied landscape means you can craft a cycling trip tailored to your adventure style. Many local bike shops offer rentals, including mountain and e-bikes, and several guided tours are available for visitors who prefer a structured itinerary. From city cruising to trailblazing, Victoria is a launchpad for unforgettable biking experiences.
Guests at the Oswego Hotel enjoy easy access to downtown’s top trails and are perfectly positioned to venture farther afield. We also offer bike storage either in your room or in our secure garage. Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended tour, there’s no better way to explore the region than by bike!
Explore more local guides and outdoor experiences from the Oswego Hotel on our blog.