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CYCLING
Last modified April 17, 2004

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking has been slow to catch on in the grasslands. Perhaps this is due to the presence of prickly pear cactus across much of the region. However, pleasant opportunities are available on developed trails, especially in the Cypress Hills area.

The Alberta park's Spring Creek cross-country ski trails are excellent beginner routes. Grass-covered with gentle slopes and excellent views south across the prairie, they are a great family adventure. Nearby, the many fireguards have been graded along the grassy edge of the forest. In dry weather, these make good bike routes, although they are not advertised as such.

The Trans Canada Trail passes through the region, and is open for bike use in Shaunavon, Eastend, the Centre and West Blocks of Saskatchewan's Cypress Hills, as well as the entirre distance across Alberta's park. The longest section is from Elkwater Townsite to Fort Walsh, 40 km of challenging single track riding.

Road Biking

Several area roads are excellent cycling routes, and those approaching the Cypress Hills have short but challenging climbs. A word of caution: Highway 41 from the Trans Canada Highway to Elkwater in Alberta's Cypress Hills is not recommended, due to a lack of shoulders and the relatively high vehicle use. Try the Eagle Butte Road south from Dunmore instead.

The historically-inclined cyclist may want to follow the Red Coat Trail westward from Shaunavon through Eastend and Consul, and on to Manyberries and Foremost. You will be able to see the landscape unfold ahead much as the first mounted police did, although with substantially greater comfort! (Some sections near the provincial boundary have a gravel surface.)


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