BCAA

1 Kettle Valley Rail tRail Vitals: This semi-circular railway reclamation project runs 215 km from the sleepy river valley surrounding Midway to the vineyard-clad hills of Penticton. It's split into six sections, each of which can be cycled as a day trip or tacked together for a multi-day excursion. For a tougher challenge, loop back to Midway via Osoyoos. Highlight: The Myra Canyon section is by far the most popular, crossing 18 towering railway trestles, passing through two tunnels and affording panoramic views of its namesake provincial park. Access: There's ample parking at the Myra Canyon trailhead just outside Kelowna. Skill set: Easy. Several long climbs on gravel never get too steep owing to the trail's past life as a railway. tctrail.ca 2 Golden tRianGle Vitals: With its three "corners" in Golden, Radium and Lake Louise, and with the route crossing the Continental Divide twice, this 315-km highway loop isn't for the faint of heart (or leg). But the stunning alpine scenery of the three national parks along the way – Kootenay, Yoho and Banff – more than makes up for aching muscles. Highlight: On the B.C. side, the nod goes to Takakkaw Falls, which at 254 metres is the third-highest waterfall in Canada. Across the border, the neighbouring Moraine and Louise lakes are both short but strenuous pedals off the Trans-Canada Highway. Access: You can find overnight parking in the Triangle's three corners, along with outfitters that rent gear and offer guided trips and shuttle services. Skill set: Challenging. Rogers Pass, among other steep climbs, will test your mettle, but highway shoulders are generally wide and the surfaces reliable. krtourism.ca 3 Slocan Valley Rail tRail Vitals: Winding gently through the breathtaking Slocan River Valley, this 50-km rail trail passes sandy beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and stretches of white water lined by forests, meadows and wetlands. But it's not all about Mother Nature here: friendly, quirky spots to refuel, such as the Frog Peak Cafe and Sleep is for Sissies, are scattered along the way. Highlight: Don't forget your fishing licence and (collapsible) rod and reel, as some of the fishing holes along the way are legendary. Access: The there-and-back route typically takes one or two days, with a variety of accommodations (and parking) available. Skill set: Easy rail-trail riding. slocanvalleyrailtrail.ca The challenging Golden Triangle route passes three national parks; the Galloping Goose runs from Victoria to Sooke (below right). 14 bca a .com fall 2015 (top) barbara Yates, (right) Leanna Rathkelly/all canada Photos

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