Are you a Bow Valley newbie looking for some locals to ride with? Or maybe you’re just looking to find the sweet spots that only locals know about?
If this sounds like your cup of tea, then why not join a group ride?
I was curious to see what the Bow Valley had to offer, since it boasts some great x-country and all-mountain riding. After a bit of digging around, I found two great options for group rides that are well worth checking out.
1. The North Face Store (Banff) Group Rides
The North Face Banff Group meets on Thursdays at 6:45pm. Photo courtesy Peter Oprsal.
Organized by Randy Scriber, The North Face store manager, their Thursday night ride is open to anyone who loves mountain biking and is looking for riding partners. Typically, riding is up on Tunnel Mountain, leaving from the downtown North Face store. As we head into the summer months, Randy is hoping to do a few trips into Canmore to mix it up.
I attended the ride last week with three other riders, including Randy. We had a blast riding the Tunnel Mountain Loop, Star Wars and The Toe. I really enjoyed myself riding with Randy and the clan. It was great to meet new people that all live in the Bow Valley and I enjoyed Randy’s chill demeanour.
Randy does a great job tailoring the ride to varied abilities. He is a patient ride organizer, who adheres to the store motto of “bringing the Banff community together through group exercise.” As Randy puts it, “we are trying to take the passions of our staff and create a channel to express that to the community. The focus is not on growing our business, but rather on growing our community through activity.”
He hopes that he can get other businesses in town involved with the group rides and maybe even have them lead their own. “Banff has so much more to offer than great restaurants and an active nightlife. It also has great activities, which can really enhance the visitor’s experience.”
Rider level: Intermediate – Advanced. But don’t let that put you off. The group leader will adjust to the ride according to level and fitness of the riders that show up.
When: Every Thursday @ 6:45 pm
Where: Meet outside The North Face store in Banff
Web: Visit The North Face Store on Facebook
2. Rundle Cycling Club (Canmore/Banff)
Photo courtesy Peter Oprsal
Unlike The North Face group ride, the Rundle Cycling Club is a member-based organization located in the Bow Valley, which offers numerous options for both mountain bike and road riders alike. For a nominal fee, one can partake in many exciting events planned by the club. Not only are group rides put on by members, but the club also organizes races and fundraisers.
To join or to find out more information about the club, please visit their website.
Rider level: All levels.
When: Check out their schedule.
Where: Varies. Again, check out their schedule.
Web: www.rundlemountaincycling.com and on Facebook
Now it’s your turn. Who do you ride with?
Happy Trails!
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