Kettle Valley Trail, Biking Stage… (trip)

Kettle Valley Trail, Biking Stage 1: Castlegar to Beaverdell

  • Castlegar
  • Active & Adventure
Canada, North America

from $995* per person7 DaysJuly
Comfort accommodations Exertion level: 3
Operator: Great Explorations 16 people max
The first stage begins in the historic village of Castlegar, located at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers. We’ll visit the turn-of-the-century towns of Grand Forks, Greenwood, Rock Creek with some wilderness backcountry in between. One of the highlights will be the cycle along Arrow and Christina Lakes with a view only the railbed enjoys. Overnight stations will be ‘far off the beaten path’, where you’ll enjoy the serenity of this timeless landscape. Cyclists who enjoy single-track riding will be thrilled with the additional trails located at or near our overnight locations.

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Locations visited/nearby

Canada, North America

0 testimonials about this trip.

3 testimonials about the provider, Great Explorations:

  • Reviewer: Larry Sams located in Raleigh NC
    “The trip was one of the more awesome vacations I have ever taken. It met my expectations in every way. The hotels were  very nice and charming, the cycling routes gorgeous, the meals incredible. The guides did an outstanding job. We chose you over some other companies largely on the recommen-dations of friends who had done a trip with Great Explorations. I certainly was not disappointed. On a scale of 1-10, this trip get a 12 in my book! I hope I have a chance to do another trip with you in the future. Many thanks for an incredible week of bicycling in France."
  • Reviewer: Kathryn C., Sault Ste Marie, located in ON- Dordogne, France
    “Even better than I expected. Thank you for all the fabulous memories! The region was absolutely gorgeous – everywhere I looked was a picture postcard. The hotels were the very best in each area we stayed. Loved our place in Rocamadour, Les Eyzies was great too. Every meal was better than the one before. You chose the very best places for us. Thank heavens we were cycling to wear off all the fabulous food!”
  • Reviewer: Sabina S., Sechelt, BC located in Morocco
    "...fantastic food and culture. The experience of riding camels and overnighting in the Bedoin camp was a highlight. The hotels were fantastic and the rides very scenic."

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Special information

  • This is a custom departure, meaning this trip is offered on dates that you arrange privately with the provider. Additionally, you need to form your own private group for this trip. The itinerary and price here is just a sample. Contact the provider for detailed pricing, minimum group size, and scheduling information. For most providers, the larger the group you are traveling with, the lower the per-person cost will be.

Itinerary

 DAY 1:
For those traveling from Vancouver, we transfer by van to Castlegar, stopping in Beaverdell for lunch en route (and to pick up those who prefer to leave their cars there). We arrive at Castlegar late afternoon which may allow time for those who want to explore local bike trails.

 

DAY 2:

Castlegar to Tunnel Station, 40 km /25 miles
Today, we start on the railbed with incredible views of Lower Arrow Lake. The railbed hugs the cliffside as it climbs to Bulldog Tunnel (almost 1 km long). We’ll camp at Tunnel Station, overlooking Dog Creek Valley. We’ll have a backcountry cookout and relax under the stars.

DAY 3:
Tunnel Station to Christina Lake, 42 km / 26 miles + options
We cycle a gradual 2% grade up to the summit at Farron and then enjoy a long descent to Christina Lake, where boating and swimming are possible. There are also wonderful trails to ride (or hike) in the area, so for those who wish, we’ll explore Texas Creek Provincial Park.

DAY 4:
Christina Lake to Grand Forks, 31 km /19 miles + options
Leaving Christina Lake, we climb back up to the rail grade before continuing on to Grand Forks where we’ll have lunch at the museum. For keen cyclists who wish to ride the superb trails around Thimble Mountain, we’ll lead a ride on what we consider to be one of the best single-track routes in British Columbia. For those who want a break from the bike, there is lots to explore in town.

DAY 5:
Grand Forks to Rock Creek, 66 km / 40 miles
From Grand Forks, we’ll continue along the railbed to Greenwood, a town that boasted 26 hotels in 1899! Many of the buildings have been restored and stand testament to a rich past. You can choose from the many restaurants and cafes in town, and then visit the local museum before continuing on to Rock Creek, located on the Kettle River.

DAY 6:
Rock Creek to Beaverdell, 52 km / 32 miles
Today’s ride follows the Kettle River as it winds its way towards Beaverdell. You’ll want to spend some time at the Kettle River Park where there is an excellent swimming spot and beach. We’ll finish the Stage 1 Ride in Beaverdell with dinner and entertainment in the oldest hotel in B.C.

DAY 7:
Van transport will leave from Beaverdell on Sunday morning for Vancouver, arriving around 2:00 pm.

More information from Great Explorations: