BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN KAMLOOPS

Riverside Park to Thompson River trail

One of the most accessible and scenic rides in Kamloops starts right from downtown at Riverside Park. This chill route is a great warm-up or a full afternoon of fun depending on how far you take it. You’ll follow the Thompson River on a mostly flat, paved multi-use path that serves up classic Kamloops views—sparkling water, sage-covered hills, and trains snaking across bridges in the distance.

What makes it special

This route is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a stress-free ride with no major climbs. The river breeze keeps things cool, and there are plenty of benches and grassy patches for spontaneous snack stops. You’ll likely spot paddleboarders and kayakers on the river, and the occasional osprey overhead. Want to make it a loop? Swing through McArthur Island Park for more chill paths and river views.

• Distance: 8–15 km depending on loop

• Road Type: Paved multi-use path

• Skill Level: Beginner

• Must-See: Riverside Park, McArthur Island, railway bridge views

• Time Estimate: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

Tip: Pack a picnic and relax by the river. There are also plenty of cafes nearby to fuel up post-ride with a local roast or ice cream cone.

Kamloops Bike Ranch and Juniper trails

Ready to turn up the heat? Kamloops Bike Ranch in the Juniper Ridge area is one of the best places in Canada to test your trail riding skills. But don't worry—it’s not all hardcore downhill. This route connects multiple flowy singletrack and gravel paths, so whether you’re on a hardtail or touring bike, you’ll find your sweet spot here.

A ride with a view (and adrenaline)

The trails are stacked on a slope above the city, offering killer views of the South Thompson River and surrounding grasslands. You can make it a short 10 km loop or extend it up to 25 km by linking nearby trails like the Mesa, Sidewinder, or Spine. Bring water—this zone gets toasty, and shade is limited.

• Distance: 10–25 km depending on trail combo

• Road Type: Mixed terrain—singletrack, gravel, dirt

• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Must-See: Mesa trail ridge views, Ranch jump lines, Thompson River lookout

• Time Estimate: 1–3 hours

Locals love this zone for its flowy lines and endless combinations. For bike tourers, it’s a fun way to mix up long-distance pedaling with trail play. Just be sure your gear can handle some bumps, and bring a map or use Trailforks to navigate.

Bonus: You can roll down into downtown Kamloops after your ride and grab a well-earned burger or brew. Nothing hits better than a cold drink after a hot trail session.

Exploring Lac du Bois and grasslands

If you’re chasing wide-open spaces, rolling gravel roads, and zero traffic, Lac du Bois Grasslands north of Kamloops is pure gold. This route is all about long-distance touring vibes. With a mix of elevation, epic views, and total solitude, it’s perfect for riders looking for an off-grid experience that still starts within city limits.

Remote and rewarding rides

Starting from the outskirts of Westsyde or Batchelor Heights, you can ride deep into protected grasslands and past the glimmering blue of Lac du Bois. This route can be customized to be anywhere from 25 to 60 kilometers depending on how far you venture. Expect gravel roads, some washboard sections, and the occasional cattle guard—true adventure cycling territory.

• Distance: 25–60 km

• Road Type: Gravel, dirt roads, minimal pavement

• Skill Level: Intermediate

• Must-See: Lac du Bois, Dewdrop Range views, wildlife sightings

• Time Estimate: 2–4 hours

You’ll ride through dry pine forests, over ridges, and across open meadows that feel more like a cowboy movie set than a Canadian city. It’s also one of the best places to spot deer, coyotes, and eagles while pedaling. Make sure you’re self-sufficient—there are no shops out here, so pack water, snacks, tools, and maybe bear spray just in case.

Want to turn it into a multi-day ride? Campgrounds are scattered throughout the area, and this route connects with even longer gravel touring loops for those who like to go full send into the wilderness. Just remember, cell signal fades quickly—download your maps beforehand.