Victoria
Downtown base for the Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails; walkable to ferry and harbour.
View Lodging in Victoria →Getting to Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is easily reached by air or ferry from mainland Canada and the U.S. Pacific Northwest. Cyclists typically base in Victoria, Sooke, or Sidney, with the Cowichan Valley providing a scenic inland option.
Victoria (Capital City)
The island’s main hub and starting point for both the Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails. Passenger ferries arrive via the Victoria Clipper from Seattle, and car service runs through BC Ferries from Vancouver.
Sidney & Victoria International Airport (YYJ)
Sidney sits 30 km north of Victoria and hosts both BC Ferries (to Vancouver/Tsawwassen) and Washington State Ferries (to Anacortes). YYJ lies just west of Sidney with direct flights to Vancouver, Calgary, Seattle, and more.
Sooke
About 40 km west of Victoria, Sooke marks the end of the Galloping Goose Trail. It’s a quiet oceanfront town popular with cyclists seeking nature and small-town charm.
Cowichan Valley
North of Victoria and linked by the Cowichan Valley Trail and Trans Canada Trail. Known for vineyards and riverside rides; accessible via Highway 1 or regional bus.
When to Visit
Southern Vancouver Island enjoys one of Canada’s mildest climates, making it a year-round cycling destination. The prime riding months are April through October when rainfall is lowest and trails are dry and shaded.
- April–June: Blooming wildflowers, moderate temperatures, and fewer tourists.
- July–September: Warm, dry weather (average highs 22–25°C / 72–77°F); peak season for festivals and outdoor dining.
- October: Crisp air, colorful foliage, lighter crowds.
- November–March: Cooler and wetter but rarely freezing—urban trails remain rideable for well-prepared cyclists.
Ready to choose routes? Explore the riding itself in our companion article, Bicycling the Trails of Vancouver Island.
Trail & Transport Map
Where to Stay
Find cyclist-friendly hotels and B&Bs near trailheads. When you book through these links, a small commission supports Great Bikeways — at no extra cost to you.
Sooke
Quiet coastal town at the Goose’s western end; ideal for scenic rest days and ocean views.
View Lodging in Sooke →Sidney
Gateway port for BC and Washington State Ferries; convenient for arrivals and departures.
View Lodging in Sidney →Cowichan Valley
Vineyard-lined routes and easy access to the Cowichan Valley Trail network.
View Lodging in Cowichan Valley →Local Attractions & Cycling Experiences
Book through our FareHarbor partners to support local operators — each booking helps maintain Great Bikeways.
The Pedaler — Bike Rentals & Guided Tours (Victoria)
Rent bikes or join a guided food-and-cycling tour around Victoria’s harbour and neighbourhoods.
Book with The Pedaler →Victoria Harbour Ferry Tours
Hop-on / hop-off scenic ferry routes showcasing Victoria’s waterfront and historic districts.
Book Harbour Tour →Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you book through them — at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Great Bikeways.