Traffic is always sparse on this route into Kananaskis, said Drifter Don. Were Maya and Michal nature lovers, adventure seekers and active travellers. Read more about us, Helping families have more fun outside & plan outdoor adventures Started at the South gate. Its one of the few areas in Canada where you can park and walk a few feet into an alpine meadow. "https://www.facebook.com/Miles-Ahead-Motorcycle-Training-2194754330584189/", No cars to worry about. Whether its soaking in the Radium Hot Springs mineral pools or taking in the sights of Mount Robson, this is a trip you do not want to miss! And then all the way back to King Creek where we parked. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Biking the Highwood Pass is an excellent trip for people who like to go to the mountains but dont feel like hiking (which was our case exactly). Last time I took this route, I made a mental note to return to this site to shoot some pictures. Today I went for a motorcycle ride down to Longview, and then over the Highwood Pass into Kananaskis. 
Riders need to watch out for a variety of wildlife along Highway 40. Joey. Even though the entire road is fully maintained and nicely paved, dont forget that this trip is only available for part of the year The Highwood Pass is closed for a large part of the year and usually opens in mid-June. Well go again this year. Got to do this trail every year before the highway opens!!! We will be stopping at key locations along the way and after each days travels riders will have the evenings to take in the various amenities from the region. The parkway, built in 1940, stretches 232kilometers from Lake Louise in Banff National Park to the town of Jasper in Jasper NationalPark. Still some snow near summit. My app showed 650 m elevations. Carefully read these instructions on how to behave around them. From the Longview end, its a steady incline for about 3 hours all the way to the pass but the return mostly downhill is something to look forward to. Every year the weather can be a huge factor.. this year I had some wind going up but all good. 1,678 m lowest elevation Or you can head southwest from Calgary to Longview and enter the pass heading northwest on Highway 40. You park on either side of the road and go for a however long ride youd like. O, Just a few summer ideas to inspire your Canadian R, We're fortunate to have the Rockies just an hour's, How does your self care look like? Kananaskis is a patchwork of provincial parks and recreation areas in the front range of the Rocky Mountains. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The trail will start just after the turn-off for the Gaelic College. With top-notch motocross tracks and trails, Revelstoke is fast becoming one of the best places to ride a dirt bike in southeastern B.C. The magazine that published an article saying Canada has the longest bike path just used one of my pictures. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Riders can also expect to experience several other points of interest and amenities throughout the trip. All Right Reserved Website Design and SEO by CPG Media Inc. Privacy Policy / Terms and Conditions. Nice to have vehicle free road and the street sweeper was out clearing all the gravel. Highway 40 starts to climb as we head north through the Mist Creek area with its hidden hot springs and jagged sawtooth mountains. Drifter Don to local riders. This old CN caboose sits West of Longview, Alberta in a field on the South side of the highway. Riders looking to make this trip from Vancouver or other mainland areas will need to take aferry to Vancouver Island to begin the journey. Heyo, Im Maya! It was a millimetre away from hitting me in the eye. Once we reached the pass, we were treated with a gentle cold breeze during a hot day. 10/10 incredible bike trip on the last weekend before vehicles are back on the read. Once you arrive, get ready to be amazed by towering mountains, lakes, and even the ocean. I would do it every year! Great weather, good friends to bike with, amazing views, no vehicles on the road. Staying at Highwood Pass in Peter Lougheed Park, Trail report for Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, More biking trips in the Canadian Rockies & beyond, Exciting biking trips from around the world, Going to the Sun Road in Glacier national park, An epic travel guide to the Canadian Rockies, Complete guide to Camping in Banff National Park (updated for 2020), 15 Day Hikes near Calgary with Jaw-Dropping Views, Snake Indian Falls, off the Beaten Path in Jasper National Park, Discover 26 Amazing Wall Murals in Calgary With Our Map, Nearby Peter Lougheed Park Information Centre is closed during summer and operating only seasonally, more info, Map of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park (including hiking & biking tri ideas) can be downloaded, Canyon Creek Campground (first come first served), Highwood Pass (Highway #40) is closed for cars annually from December 1 to June 14. "@context": "http://schema.org", Accurate road conditions can be checked here. "https://twitter.com/Miles_Ahead_MJ" Then there was the Inn path. Even though you bike on the road to Highwood Pass, bears have been seen in the area. A few bears seen along the way. Kananaskis is accessible from Calgary by going 75 kilometres west on Highway 1 and heeding the turnoff signs that say Highway 40, Kananaskis Country., Thats where the adventure starts, said Drifter Don. The Icefields Parkway/Banff-Jasper Highway (Hwy 93). Did this ride today and it is completely clear of snow now. Lots of cars passing. I didnt have time for gate to gate but the 900M of elevation I took in was easy riding. With over 100 glaciers including the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, the Icefields Parkway certainly lives up to its name. Or is it a loop that drivers do, leaving their car behind and go for a spin? Are you looking for scenic motorcycle rides? This car has been badly damaged by fire, and there was evidence of explosion, possibly from full size propane tanks. Highway 40 has a chameleon-like qualityits a different ride every month of the year.. The road cuts through one more mountain pass between Mount Kidd and The Wedge and then sails past a golf course and an RV park. Once we reached the Highwood Pass from the other side, we had a short water break on top and hooray to enjoy another downhill to the starting point. Discover tips and hidden gems in global destinations with our travel guides. Will need another solid week of sunny warm weather to melt the rest of the snow. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Be prepared for snow well into May, however, since as you go further along the road from Peter Lougheed the elevation increases and snow seems to stick around longer. We also cover the coolest gear on the market. Road up May 22 from the Peter Lougheed gate. Absolutely beautiful! If I had to pick one of the 50 or so rides Ive done there as a favourite, Id have to say it was that one.. Its a rare situation, and many cyclists took advantage of it. Needless to say, this is not atrip that you are going to want torush. "url": "https://www.milesaheaddrivered.ca", Went 23 km. The name for this image comes from the tag on the far end there, as that is what is says. You might even want to take abreak by relaxing on the sand or taking adip into the water. You can approach this trip by heading west along the Trans Canada highway from Calgary and then heading south on Highway 40 through Kananaskis to Longview. What a great trip, and good timing. A trip from Calgary to the village of Longview through Kananaskis Country is approximately 315kilometers round-trip. As always in the Canadian Rockies, you are in bear habitat. A short distance from the historic town of Longview, known for its scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from the prairies. If youre looking for an adventurous trip and want to have freedom over your day while staying in campgrounds, book a Smile Campervan from us a budget, family & pet-friendly option. Was great to see so many out enjoying this opportunity before the vehicles return next weekend. One day will try from other gate. Powered by Choice Hotels, the Travel Top 6site inspires and helps travellers uncover new destinations and fall back in love with old favourites. Pack extra tubes, patches and master link. It seems the climb from the north side is more popular. Snow started at 13.5km. It truly is a beautiful ride. I love running in the mountains, jumping in the ice cold lakes, mountain biking and trying not so common activities, such as mountaineering. Kananaskis is a popular day trip for motorcyclists in southern Alberta, Don Morberg rides a 2010 Victory Cross Country when he rides through Kananaskis country by Barrier Lake. We are a family-owned and operated Calgary area motorcycle dealership located by heart of the new west in Airdrie, Alberta. Thanks Arman. Definitely adding this to my list, thanks , Thanks Shannon. Motorcycle touring in Canada. Its got great hamburgers and spectacular views of the valley and surrounding mountains.. We usually do bike touring. One part of the road is considered Category 1, which is the steepest grade for cyclists on the Tour de France. And seeing mountain goats and other wildlife during the day is a cherry on top of an already fantastic day. We hiked with our bikes to the 17km mark. 73 East Lake Crescent NEAirdrie, AB T4A 2H4, Tel: 403.948.6940Toll Free: 1.866.948.RIDE (7433)Parts: parts@destinationcycles.comService: service@destinationcycles.comGeneral Inquiries: info@destinationcycles.comBike Sales: bikesales@destinationcycles.com, 2022 Destination Cycles. Another great day and great ride, said Drifter Don. Photo courtesy Don Morberg. Just did Toronto- Montreal. Hi Maya We offer a well-stocked parts and accessories inventory and have a large selection of motorcycles for sale including: Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Ural, Boss Hoss, just to name a few. Great riding conditions. Photo courtesy Don Morberg. We service, sell and supply parts and accessories for all makes and models of motorcycles and trikes, and we are a factory dealer for Boss Hoss, Bushtec, and Ural. Would do again. This is so amazing! Since you guys did the trip from both starting points, which direction has better views and scenary in your opinion? Excellent ride didnt get to pass due to the very hot weather, but stunning views! ] Elevation gain: 1059 meters. That path here where I live are on gravel roads or highways with no paved shoulder. Cycled Gate to Gate to Gate from the north end which is 110 Km! Would love to know more. Got it just right! Going east of the town I live in the TransCanada trail or boundary trail is a road with a gravel shoulder. Have u ever ridden your bike along the side of the road an a car drives by its the gravel an throws a stone up which hits u right beside your eye. Highway free of snow and no one else around. Paved shoulders all the way. I would love to bike on something like this and not have to worry. Drifter Don and his buddies head north along Highway 40 through parkland that includes nine different provincial parks and recreation areas stacked together one after the other. This highway is said to be, The Sea-to-Sky is without a doubt one of the most beautiful rides in Canada; UKs The Guardian documented it as their fifth best road trip worldwide! Drifter Don rides Kananaskis several times every year, with each subsequent trip seeming to have its own unique vibe. No steep pitches. Thank you, this was an enjoyable read with great information. You should always carry a bear spray (can be purchased at Visitors Centre or outdoor stores), know when and how to use it and make noise. Love to travel? The climb from the other side was equally spectacular. Getting a tan, Feeling very grateful today for being able to expl, This is how we jumped out of bed knowing we're mee. Keep careful watch here because this is open-range country. The Icefields Parkway, otherwise known as Highway 93, is one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Canada. Riding there I have to take the shoulder because to much traffic. Hey guys, its nice to see you here! Heavy gravel in the last 5 km. A few days later, winter blasts came in over mountain tops, ripping all the colour from the trees., Storelk Mountain is one of the many beautiful sights to take in on a ride through Kananaskis. Now we would like to hear from you. Before or after your motorcycle ride through the Rockies or while riding around the Calgary area, stop by Destination Cycles. The speed limit on the Icefields Parkway varies between 50 and 90km/h. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Though with so many magnificent views to take in, the trip will likely end up taking longer than that. Its also an excellent training before the short biking season in the Canadian Rockies. Grazing cattle give way to suicidal mountain sheep that seem to still think they have the right of way and sometimes cant be reasoned with, Drifter Don said. It was a very different story coming down with tons of cyclists cycling up on this last weekend before the road opens to traffic. I was on a mtn bike and my buddy was on a hybrid. The summit, Highwood Pass, is 2,303 metres (7,238 feet) above sea level. From my home in Calgary, its a 300-kilometre circular routethe perfect day ride., Don Morberg is a retired writer and photographer, which affords him plenty of time to ride his 2010 Victory Cross Country along Mist Creek in Kananaskis. RidersWestMag.com is owned and operated by KPI Media Inc. We highlight the most remarkable places to ride ATVs and motorbikes in Western Canada (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba), the clubs that maintain trails and motocross tracks, and the Rad Riders who promote and elevate the sport. (2021) Enjoy breathtaking sights and sounds from the seat of your motorcycleas we cruise some of the most incredible roads Canada has to offer: A short distance from the historic town of Longview, known for its scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from the prairies. \r(description)\rImagine mounting a high definition camcorder to the handlebars of a motorcycle then riding across the second largest country in the world. I live in Canada and I know how this trail looks like. Could have gone up using road bike. Motorcycle ride up to a herd of Rocky Mountain sheep near Highwood Pass on the Kananaskis Trail in Alberta, Canada. Our service team consists of several journeymen and apprentice mechanics that can perform regular service and tire changes while you wait, or repair almost anything that your motorcycle might need. Only in Ontario for a while was it dangers. 2,206 m highest elevation. The entire route stretches an incredible 2,080kilometers, with half of that being in the United States. The Pacific Rim Highway, also known as Rt.4, is one of the best motorcycle routes in British Columbia. A lot of cyclists were goofing around . Before you go hiking or biking, check current conditions on Trail Report from Alberta Parks. Some really helpful information about this unique Canadian road. Worth the climb. So be prepared that you may have to do an out and back. It was awesome! Dont worry; we wont just be seeing snow and ice. Keep an eye out for elk and black bears as well. Dont worry; we wont just be seeing snow and ice. We hardly saw any cyclists climbing up from the south. Welcome to Camp Moose Trail A must do in May when snow is clear and the road is closed. Fantastic photos. 3% average grade The Danube bike path is actually a road only for bikes. Bike | Hike | SUP | Travel | Road trips Didnt do the final climb to the pass but Im guessing it will be clear by june 1st, Cycled up Saturday Dec 5 from Longview end. This ride is recommended for those with more experience as there are many elevation changes, switchbacks, and hairpin turns that will require precision and the utmost attention. Highway 40 technically starts at the Highwood Junction. Saw a grizzly sow with a cub right beside the road feasting away. Toke side road. It belongs to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, and its directly on Highway #40. The best times to visit this trail are May through June. June 10 - started before 7am with no one in sight. Glad it was a cool day. The elevation changes will allow for breathtaking ascents and exhilarating descents. I think this tag was fairly new, I found a pice of paper on the ground with the design sketched on it with a list of colours to use in the application. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. It really sounds funtastic! The trip from Calgary, if taken leisurely will take up the better part of a day and will be worth every minute of it. "sameAs": [ Every June 15th, motorcycle riders across southern Alberta get psyched to access and ride a 170-kilometre stretch of pavement that spans breathtaking mountain vistas, glacier-fed lakes, churning rivers, wildflower meadows and forests that are home to every species of wildlife known to Western Canada. We decided to start from King Creek (its shorter and more challenging) in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. So its basically roads marked off as a path. The date of Drifter Dons favourite ride was the ides of October 2017, when he and a small group of friends headed out on what they call their annual Fall Colours Run. TIP }, Join us for our fourth annual Road Trip Adventure and experience some of the. We were the third car parking by the north gate at 7:15 this morning. During the fall, its a blaze of colour from the grass at your feet to the golden larches up to treeline.. Every year since 2007 I have been doing this ride! Well worth the workout! The first time weve heard about Highwood Pass was from our friend, who was on a biking trip around the world. Here's a quick look at last year's itinerary while we work on completing travel plans for this year. 2022 Motorcycle Road Trip AdventureJuly 25 - 31. Calgary to Edmonton 300 kmCalgary to Red Deer 150 kmCalgary to Fort McMurray 775 kmCalgary to Lethbridge 215 kmCalgary to Medicine Hat 295 km, Calgary to Banff National Park 120 kmCalgary to Lake Louise 185 kmCalgary to Columbia Icefield 310 kmCalgary to Jasper 425 km or 600 km (depending upon route)Calgary to Drumheller 150 km, Calgary to Golden, BC 265 kmCalgary to Revelstoke, BC 410 kmCalgary to Kelowna, BC 605 kmCalgary to Vancouver, BC 975 km. 37,5 km distance This 7-day adventure consists of approximately 48hrs of riding on over 4200 km of Canadas best landscapes. On this ride youll have miles of views with another corner around almost every bend, leading your onto straight-aways that seem as though they are right out of a movie. NOTE You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. This trip may be over but the riding and filming continues.\rWelcome to VIRTUAL RIDING TELEVISION \rVideos, pictures, maps and more details available on the website: http://www.vridetv.com\rNew content is added on a weekly basis. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 2 min to complete. This route is not aloop, so riders will need to return the same way they came in. Highway 40 winds through a series of curves until it evens out at the 1,800-metre level where the road to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park joins the highway. It was unbelievable how much freedom we had. We dodge more mountain sheep as we crest the Highwood Pass. Lots of people got parking tickets, so don't park where there are signs for no parking. Even so, we are quite certain you wont mind taking asecond look at the beautiful scenery anyways. We stopped at the Running Rain Lake Trailhead. Its a great feeling riding in the middle of the road. Extra amazing to do before the road opens to cars again on June 15. [emailprotected] 17 km distance We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. 2021 KPI Media Inc. All Rights Reserved, KPI Media Great experience. It took us 2:20 hours for the round trip. So beautiful and no cars on the road. Your page on Canada having the longest bike path is why you cant believe everything u read. Saturday May 29th For more information, please visit, Fir Creek Point Loop via Grass Pass Trail, Strawberry Hills via Fitzsimmons Creek Trail, Holy Cross Mountain via Gunnery Mountain Trail, https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/kananaskis/kananaskis-country/advisories-public-safety/annual-road-closures/, Highwood Compound Provincial Recreation Area, Cataract Creek Snow Vehicle Public Land Use Zone. Riders will also pass through old-growth forests and around rock walls carved out by glaciers many years ago. Road closed Dec 1, Good ride. This trip is a regular on the list of rides for many Calgary and area motorcyclists and is a top attraction for touring motorcycles from around the world. can't wait for 2018 season. With approximately 415,000kilometers of paved road, bikers will find Canada an attractive destination for putting together motorcycle road trip ideas. Thanks Steven, Im glad it helped. Great ride!! To avoid chilly temperatures and snow squalls it is best to plan your ride along the Cabot Trail for July or August. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. This trip will bring arider as close to the shoreline as possible while remaining on the pavement. Such a remarkable opportunity to see such a spectacular part of the world on bike. Some spots take cliff-edge riding to new heights with plenty of curves along with incredible ocean vistas. Just whatch fur those to places an take a side road. Distance from the gate to the top is 17 km. I did that on June 14. Hundreds of soon-to-be-cheeseburger bovines dont respect passing motorcycles.. 2,206 m highest elevation, Highwood Pass South Climb This route will take riders through Kananaskis before reaching Longview. Either way it will be worth every second of your time. I parked next to the gate, the ride is moderate enough not to need a lead in although if you have the time itd be a great ride. I would rate the climb as moderate with an average grade of 2% but with sections 10% to 14%. To have the most freedom and enjoy nature to the fullest while staying on a budget, we always recommend staying in the campgrounds. We stay in hotels or bnb s . Road closed to traffic until June 15. Photo courtesy Don Morberg. My husband and I are seriously thinking about doing it. and back from South Gate So freeing! Motorcyclists will encounter miles of mountains, forests, and beautiful shorelines during this ride. Enjoy the ride! SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Highway 546 through this park closes seasonally between Dec 1 - May 14. The last landmark is the Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino as riders exit Highway 40 onto Highway 1 on their way back to Calgary. Autumn is measured in hours in the Rockies, Drifter Don said. I cycled across Canada this summer an used the TransCanada highway. Join us for our fourth annual Road Trip Adventure and experience some of thebest motorcycle ridingin the world from right here in Canada. Must have been fantastic to have that road to yourselves. It was October and there was a whiff of winter in the wind coming down from the peaks to the west, Drifter Don said. The route includes the highest paved road in Canada. The vast vista of the Kananaskis River Valley is on the left and the Opal Range mountains are on the right. Amazing ride to start the season. That is a must-stop site. The funny thing about this caboose, is that it's sitting on a section of track, complete with ballast, just long enough to hold the caboose itself, there was never actually a train line here, someone had this delivered. Although the ride starts in the prairies, the Kananaskis Trail is home to the Highwood Pass, With over 100 glaciers including the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, the Icefields Parkway certainly lives up to its name. did about 31k before we hit the snow and had to turn back. The best time to take this trip is between June and September for optimal weather and road conditions, as well as prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Please check back for updates! Watch out. The first peaks of the Rockies front range appear ahead of us as we dive through a canyon carved by the Highwood River eons ago. Rode from north up to the pass, down the other side and back again. They start at King Creek, climb 17 km up to the Highwood Pass, and then down the other side to Longview, another 37 km. I am doing the pass tomorrow and your piece will add to my experience. Stopped by ankle deep snow at Km 35 and just shy of the of the summit. Thanks Your trip sounds amazing. It is one of Western Canadas best motorcycle rides, one of our top rides here at Destination Cycles, and a favorite of the owner, Barry Radu so watch out for Barry on one of his Boss Hoss motorcycles or trikes. Besides its peaceful and scenic nature, this trip is also defined by its long sweeping corners that will provide just the right amount of adrenaline. It is reported to be one of the highest paved roads in Canada and worthy of the trip. Great timing! In the trip you did was there accommodations of any kind on the way? He biked through the Highwood Pass at the end of May but had to walk through the actual pass due to too much snow.
Riders need to watch out for a variety of wildlife along Highway 40. Joey. Even though the entire road is fully maintained and nicely paved, dont forget that this trip is only available for part of the year The Highwood Pass is closed for a large part of the year and usually opens in mid-June. Well go again this year. Got to do this trail every year before the highway opens!!! We will be stopping at key locations along the way and after each days travels riders will have the evenings to take in the various amenities from the region. The parkway, built in 1940, stretches 232kilometers from Lake Louise in Banff National Park to the town of Jasper in Jasper NationalPark. Still some snow near summit. My app showed 650 m elevations. Carefully read these instructions on how to behave around them. From the Longview end, its a steady incline for about 3 hours all the way to the pass but the return mostly downhill is something to look forward to. Every year the weather can be a huge factor.. this year I had some wind going up but all good. 1,678 m lowest elevation Or you can head southwest from Calgary to Longview and enter the pass heading northwest on Highway 40. You park on either side of the road and go for a however long ride youd like. O, Just a few summer ideas to inspire your Canadian R, We're fortunate to have the Rockies just an hour's, How does your self care look like? Kananaskis is a patchwork of provincial parks and recreation areas in the front range of the Rocky Mountains. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The trail will start just after the turn-off for the Gaelic College. With top-notch motocross tracks and trails, Revelstoke is fast becoming one of the best places to ride a dirt bike in southeastern B.C. The magazine that published an article saying Canada has the longest bike path just used one of my pictures. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Riders can also expect to experience several other points of interest and amenities throughout the trip. All Right Reserved Website Design and SEO by CPG Media Inc. Privacy Policy / Terms and Conditions. Nice to have vehicle free road and the street sweeper was out clearing all the gravel. Highway 40 starts to climb as we head north through the Mist Creek area with its hidden hot springs and jagged sawtooth mountains. Drifter Don to local riders. This old CN caboose sits West of Longview, Alberta in a field on the South side of the highway. Riders looking to make this trip from Vancouver or other mainland areas will need to take aferry to Vancouver Island to begin the journey. Heyo, Im Maya! It was a millimetre away from hitting me in the eye. Once we reached the pass, we were treated with a gentle cold breeze during a hot day. 10/10 incredible bike trip on the last weekend before vehicles are back on the read. Once you arrive, get ready to be amazed by towering mountains, lakes, and even the ocean. I would do it every year! Great weather, good friends to bike with, amazing views, no vehicles on the road. Staying at Highwood Pass in Peter Lougheed Park, Trail report for Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, More biking trips in the Canadian Rockies & beyond, Exciting biking trips from around the world, Going to the Sun Road in Glacier national park, An epic travel guide to the Canadian Rockies, Complete guide to Camping in Banff National Park (updated for 2020), 15 Day Hikes near Calgary with Jaw-Dropping Views, Snake Indian Falls, off the Beaten Path in Jasper National Park, Discover 26 Amazing Wall Murals in Calgary With Our Map, Nearby Peter Lougheed Park Information Centre is closed during summer and operating only seasonally, more info, Map of Peter Lougheed Provincial Park (including hiking & biking tri ideas) can be downloaded, Canyon Creek Campground (first come first served), Highwood Pass (Highway #40) is closed for cars annually from December 1 to June 14. "@context": "http://schema.org", Accurate road conditions can be checked here. "https://twitter.com/Miles_Ahead_MJ" Then there was the Inn path. Even though you bike on the road to Highwood Pass, bears have been seen in the area. A few bears seen along the way. Kananaskis is accessible from Calgary by going 75 kilometres west on Highway 1 and heeding the turnoff signs that say Highway 40, Kananaskis Country., Thats where the adventure starts, said Drifter Don. The Icefields Parkway/Banff-Jasper Highway (Hwy 93). Did this ride today and it is completely clear of snow now. Lots of cars passing. I didnt have time for gate to gate but the 900M of elevation I took in was easy riding. With over 100 glaciers including the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, the Icefields Parkway certainly lives up to its name. Or is it a loop that drivers do, leaving their car behind and go for a spin? Are you looking for scenic motorcycle rides? This car has been badly damaged by fire, and there was evidence of explosion, possibly from full size propane tanks. Highway 40 has a chameleon-like qualityits a different ride every month of the year.. The road cuts through one more mountain pass between Mount Kidd and The Wedge and then sails past a golf course and an RV park. Once we reached the Highwood Pass from the other side, we had a short water break on top and hooray to enjoy another downhill to the starting point. Discover tips and hidden gems in global destinations with our travel guides. Will need another solid week of sunny warm weather to melt the rest of the snow. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Be prepared for snow well into May, however, since as you go further along the road from Peter Lougheed the elevation increases and snow seems to stick around longer. We also cover the coolest gear on the market. Road up May 22 from the Peter Lougheed gate. Absolutely beautiful! If I had to pick one of the 50 or so rides Ive done there as a favourite, Id have to say it was that one.. Its a rare situation, and many cyclists took advantage of it. Needless to say, this is not atrip that you are going to want torush. "url": "https://www.milesaheaddrivered.ca", Went 23 km. The name for this image comes from the tag on the far end there, as that is what is says. You might even want to take abreak by relaxing on the sand or taking adip into the water. You can approach this trip by heading west along the Trans Canada highway from Calgary and then heading south on Highway 40 through Kananaskis to Longview. What a great trip, and good timing. A trip from Calgary to the village of Longview through Kananaskis Country is approximately 315kilometers round-trip. As always in the Canadian Rockies, you are in bear habitat. A short distance from the historic town of Longview, known for its scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from the prairies. If youre looking for an adventurous trip and want to have freedom over your day while staying in campgrounds, book a Smile Campervan from us a budget, family & pet-friendly option. Was great to see so many out enjoying this opportunity before the vehicles return next weekend. One day will try from other gate. Powered by Choice Hotels, the Travel Top 6site inspires and helps travellers uncover new destinations and fall back in love with old favourites. Pack extra tubes, patches and master link. It seems the climb from the north side is more popular. Snow started at 13.5km. It truly is a beautiful ride. I love running in the mountains, jumping in the ice cold lakes, mountain biking and trying not so common activities, such as mountaineering. Kananaskis is a popular day trip for motorcyclists in southern Alberta, Don Morberg rides a 2010 Victory Cross Country when he rides through Kananaskis country by Barrier Lake. We are a family-owned and operated Calgary area motorcycle dealership located by heart of the new west in Airdrie, Alberta. Thanks Arman. Definitely adding this to my list, thanks , Thanks Shannon. Motorcycle touring in Canada. Its got great hamburgers and spectacular views of the valley and surrounding mountains.. We usually do bike touring. One part of the road is considered Category 1, which is the steepest grade for cyclists on the Tour de France. And seeing mountain goats and other wildlife during the day is a cherry on top of an already fantastic day. We hiked with our bikes to the 17km mark. 73 East Lake Crescent NEAirdrie, AB T4A 2H4, Tel: 403.948.6940Toll Free: 1.866.948.RIDE (7433)Parts: parts@destinationcycles.comService: service@destinationcycles.comGeneral Inquiries: info@destinationcycles.comBike Sales: bikesales@destinationcycles.com, 2022 Destination Cycles. Another great day and great ride, said Drifter Don. Photo courtesy Don Morberg. Just did Toronto- Montreal. Hi Maya We offer a well-stocked parts and accessories inventory and have a large selection of motorcycles for sale including: Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Ural, Boss Hoss, just to name a few. Great riding conditions. Photo courtesy Don Morberg. We service, sell and supply parts and accessories for all makes and models of motorcycles and trikes, and we are a factory dealer for Boss Hoss, Bushtec, and Ural. Would do again. This is so amazing! Since you guys did the trip from both starting points, which direction has better views and scenary in your opinion? Excellent ride didnt get to pass due to the very hot weather, but stunning views! ] Elevation gain: 1059 meters. That path here where I live are on gravel roads or highways with no paved shoulder. Cycled Gate to Gate to Gate from the north end which is 110 Km! Would love to know more. Got it just right! Going east of the town I live in the TransCanada trail or boundary trail is a road with a gravel shoulder. Have u ever ridden your bike along the side of the road an a car drives by its the gravel an throws a stone up which hits u right beside your eye. Highway free of snow and no one else around. Paved shoulders all the way. I would love to bike on something like this and not have to worry. Drifter Don and his buddies head north along Highway 40 through parkland that includes nine different provincial parks and recreation areas stacked together one after the other. This highway is said to be, The Sea-to-Sky is without a doubt one of the most beautiful rides in Canada; UKs The Guardian documented it as their fifth best road trip worldwide! Drifter Don rides Kananaskis several times every year, with each subsequent trip seeming to have its own unique vibe. No steep pitches. Thank you, this was an enjoyable read with great information. You should always carry a bear spray (can be purchased at Visitors Centre or outdoor stores), know when and how to use it and make noise. Love to travel? The climb from the other side was equally spectacular. Getting a tan, Feeling very grateful today for being able to expl, This is how we jumped out of bed knowing we're mee. Keep careful watch here because this is open-range country. The Icefields Parkway, otherwise known as Highway 93, is one of the most scenic motorcycle routes in Canada. Riding there I have to take the shoulder because to much traffic. Hey guys, its nice to see you here! Heavy gravel in the last 5 km. A few days later, winter blasts came in over mountain tops, ripping all the colour from the trees., Storelk Mountain is one of the many beautiful sights to take in on a ride through Kananaskis. Now we would like to hear from you. Before or after your motorcycle ride through the Rockies or while riding around the Calgary area, stop by Destination Cycles. The speed limit on the Icefields Parkway varies between 50 and 90km/h. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Though with so many magnificent views to take in, the trip will likely end up taking longer than that. Its also an excellent training before the short biking season in the Canadian Rockies. Grazing cattle give way to suicidal mountain sheep that seem to still think they have the right of way and sometimes cant be reasoned with, Drifter Don said. It was a very different story coming down with tons of cyclists cycling up on this last weekend before the road opens to traffic. I was on a mtn bike and my buddy was on a hybrid. The summit, Highwood Pass, is 2,303 metres (7,238 feet) above sea level. From my home in Calgary, its a 300-kilometre circular routethe perfect day ride., Don Morberg is a retired writer and photographer, which affords him plenty of time to ride his 2010 Victory Cross Country along Mist Creek in Kananaskis. RidersWestMag.com is owned and operated by KPI Media Inc. We highlight the most remarkable places to ride ATVs and motorbikes in Western Canada (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba), the clubs that maintain trails and motocross tracks, and the Rad Riders who promote and elevate the sport. (2021) Enjoy breathtaking sights and sounds from the seat of your motorcycleas we cruise some of the most incredible roads Canada has to offer: A short distance from the historic town of Longview, known for its scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from the prairies. \r(description)\rImagine mounting a high definition camcorder to the handlebars of a motorcycle then riding across the second largest country in the world. I live in Canada and I know how this trail looks like. Could have gone up using road bike. Motorcycle ride up to a herd of Rocky Mountain sheep near Highwood Pass on the Kananaskis Trail in Alberta, Canada. Our service team consists of several journeymen and apprentice mechanics that can perform regular service and tire changes while you wait, or repair almost anything that your motorcycle might need. Only in Ontario for a while was it dangers. 2,206 m highest elevation. The entire route stretches an incredible 2,080kilometers, with half of that being in the United States. The Pacific Rim Highway, also known as Rt.4, is one of the best motorcycle routes in British Columbia. A lot of cyclists were goofing around . Before you go hiking or biking, check current conditions on Trail Report from Alberta Parks. Some really helpful information about this unique Canadian road. Worth the climb. So be prepared that you may have to do an out and back. It was awesome! Dont worry; we wont just be seeing snow and ice. Keep an eye out for elk and black bears as well. Dont worry; we wont just be seeing snow and ice. We hardly saw any cyclists climbing up from the south. Welcome to Camp Moose Trail A must do in May when snow is clear and the road is closed. Fantastic photos. 3% average grade The Danube bike path is actually a road only for bikes. Bike | Hike | SUP | Travel | Road trips Didnt do the final climb to the pass but Im guessing it will be clear by june 1st, Cycled up Saturday Dec 5 from Longview end. This ride is recommended for those with more experience as there are many elevation changes, switchbacks, and hairpin turns that will require precision and the utmost attention. Highway 40 technically starts at the Highwood Junction. Saw a grizzly sow with a cub right beside the road feasting away. Toke side road. It belongs to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, and its directly on Highway #40. The best times to visit this trail are May through June. June 10 - started before 7am with no one in sight. Glad it was a cool day. The elevation changes will allow for breathtaking ascents and exhilarating descents. I think this tag was fairly new, I found a pice of paper on the ground with the design sketched on it with a list of colours to use in the application. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. It really sounds funtastic! The trip from Calgary, if taken leisurely will take up the better part of a day and will be worth every minute of it. "sameAs": [ Every June 15th, motorcycle riders across southern Alberta get psyched to access and ride a 170-kilometre stretch of pavement that spans breathtaking mountain vistas, glacier-fed lakes, churning rivers, wildflower meadows and forests that are home to every species of wildlife known to Western Canada. We decided to start from King Creek (its shorter and more challenging) in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. So its basically roads marked off as a path. The date of Drifter Dons favourite ride was the ides of October 2017, when he and a small group of friends headed out on what they call their annual Fall Colours Run. TIP }, Join us for our fourth annual Road Trip Adventure and experience some of the. We were the third car parking by the north gate at 7:15 this morning. During the fall, its a blaze of colour from the grass at your feet to the golden larches up to treeline.. Every year since 2007 I have been doing this ride! Well worth the workout! The first time weve heard about Highwood Pass was from our friend, who was on a biking trip around the world. Here's a quick look at last year's itinerary while we work on completing travel plans for this year. 2022 Motorcycle Road Trip AdventureJuly 25 - 31. Calgary to Edmonton 300 kmCalgary to Red Deer 150 kmCalgary to Fort McMurray 775 kmCalgary to Lethbridge 215 kmCalgary to Medicine Hat 295 km, Calgary to Banff National Park 120 kmCalgary to Lake Louise 185 kmCalgary to Columbia Icefield 310 kmCalgary to Jasper 425 km or 600 km (depending upon route)Calgary to Drumheller 150 km, Calgary to Golden, BC 265 kmCalgary to Revelstoke, BC 410 kmCalgary to Kelowna, BC 605 kmCalgary to Vancouver, BC 975 km. 37,5 km distance This 7-day adventure consists of approximately 48hrs of riding on over 4200 km of Canadas best landscapes. On this ride youll have miles of views with another corner around almost every bend, leading your onto straight-aways that seem as though they are right out of a movie. NOTE You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. This trip may be over but the riding and filming continues.\rWelcome to VIRTUAL RIDING TELEVISION \rVideos, pictures, maps and more details available on the website: http://www.vridetv.com\rNew content is added on a weekly basis. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 2 min to complete. This route is not aloop, so riders will need to return the same way they came in. Highway 40 winds through a series of curves until it evens out at the 1,800-metre level where the road to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park joins the highway. It was unbelievable how much freedom we had. We dodge more mountain sheep as we crest the Highwood Pass. Lots of people got parking tickets, so don't park where there are signs for no parking. Even so, we are quite certain you wont mind taking asecond look at the beautiful scenery anyways. We stopped at the Running Rain Lake Trailhead. Its a great feeling riding in the middle of the road. Extra amazing to do before the road opens to cars again on June 15. [emailprotected] 17 km distance We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. 2021 KPI Media Inc. All Rights Reserved, KPI Media Great experience. It took us 2:20 hours for the round trip. So beautiful and no cars on the road. Your page on Canada having the longest bike path is why you cant believe everything u read. Saturday May 29th For more information, please visit, Fir Creek Point Loop via Grass Pass Trail, Strawberry Hills via Fitzsimmons Creek Trail, Holy Cross Mountain via Gunnery Mountain Trail, https://www.albertaparks.ca/parks/kananaskis/kananaskis-country/advisories-public-safety/annual-road-closures/, Highwood Compound Provincial Recreation Area, Cataract Creek Snow Vehicle Public Land Use Zone. Riders will also pass through old-growth forests and around rock walls carved out by glaciers many years ago. Road closed Dec 1, Good ride. This trip is a regular on the list of rides for many Calgary and area motorcyclists and is a top attraction for touring motorcycles from around the world. can't wait for 2018 season. With approximately 415,000kilometers of paved road, bikers will find Canada an attractive destination for putting together motorcycle road trip ideas. Thanks Steven, Im glad it helped. Great ride!! To avoid chilly temperatures and snow squalls it is best to plan your ride along the Cabot Trail for July or August. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. This trip will bring arider as close to the shoreline as possible while remaining on the pavement. Such a remarkable opportunity to see such a spectacular part of the world on bike. Some spots take cliff-edge riding to new heights with plenty of curves along with incredible ocean vistas. Just whatch fur those to places an take a side road. Distance from the gate to the top is 17 km. I did that on June 14. Hundreds of soon-to-be-cheeseburger bovines dont respect passing motorcycles.. 2,206 m highest elevation, Highwood Pass South Climb This route will take riders through Kananaskis before reaching Longview. Either way it will be worth every second of your time. I parked next to the gate, the ride is moderate enough not to need a lead in although if you have the time itd be a great ride. I would rate the climb as moderate with an average grade of 2% but with sections 10% to 14%. To have the most freedom and enjoy nature to the fullest while staying on a budget, we always recommend staying in the campgrounds. We stay in hotels or bnb s . Road closed to traffic until June 15. Photo courtesy Don Morberg. My husband and I are seriously thinking about doing it. and back from South Gate So freeing! Motorcyclists will encounter miles of mountains, forests, and beautiful shorelines during this ride. Enjoy the ride! SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Highway 546 through this park closes seasonally between Dec 1 - May 14. The last landmark is the Stoney Nakoda Resort & Casino as riders exit Highway 40 onto Highway 1 on their way back to Calgary. Autumn is measured in hours in the Rockies, Drifter Don said. I cycled across Canada this summer an used the TransCanada highway. Join us for our fourth annual Road Trip Adventure and experience some of thebest motorcycle ridingin the world from right here in Canada. Must have been fantastic to have that road to yourselves. It was October and there was a whiff of winter in the wind coming down from the peaks to the west, Drifter Don said. The route includes the highest paved road in Canada. The vast vista of the Kananaskis River Valley is on the left and the Opal Range mountains are on the right. Amazing ride to start the season. That is a must-stop site. The funny thing about this caboose, is that it's sitting on a section of track, complete with ballast, just long enough to hold the caboose itself, there was never actually a train line here, someone had this delivered. Although the ride starts in the prairies, the Kananaskis Trail is home to the Highwood Pass, With over 100 glaciers including the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, the Icefields Parkway certainly lives up to its name. did about 31k before we hit the snow and had to turn back. The best time to take this trip is between June and September for optimal weather and road conditions, as well as prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Please check back for updates! Watch out. The first peaks of the Rockies front range appear ahead of us as we dive through a canyon carved by the Highwood River eons ago. Rode from north up to the pass, down the other side and back again. They start at King Creek, climb 17 km up to the Highwood Pass, and then down the other side to Longview, another 37 km. I am doing the pass tomorrow and your piece will add to my experience. Stopped by ankle deep snow at Km 35 and just shy of the of the summit. Thanks Your trip sounds amazing. It is one of Western Canadas best motorcycle rides, one of our top rides here at Destination Cycles, and a favorite of the owner, Barry Radu so watch out for Barry on one of his Boss Hoss motorcycles or trikes. Besides its peaceful and scenic nature, this trip is also defined by its long sweeping corners that will provide just the right amount of adrenaline. It is reported to be one of the highest paved roads in Canada and worthy of the trip. Great timing! In the trip you did was there accommodations of any kind on the way? He biked through the Highwood Pass at the end of May but had to walk through the actual pass due to too much snow.