Why do a destination ride? For many cyclists, the joy of riding comes not only from the miles traveled but from the experiences along the way. A destination ride is a cycling outing where the route is planned around reaching a specific place rather than simply riding for distance or training. The destination itself becomes the highlight and motivation for the ride.
Unlike a standard training ride or loop that begins and ends at the same point, a destination ride typically involves traveling to a location that offers something meaningful or enjoyable. This could be a scenic overlook, a café or bakery, a small town, a beach, a park, or even a local landmark. The appeal lies in combining the physical activity of cycling with the reward of arriving somewhere memorable.
Many cyclists plan destination rides around food stops. Riding 20–50 miles to reach a popular coffee shop, ice cream stand, or brewery is a common example. These stops provide a natural break, a chance to refuel, and a social opportunity to meet fellow riders or relax with friends.
Destination rides can also emphasize exploration.
Cyclists might plan a route to visit a historic site, ride through a famous scenic road, or reach the top of a challenging mountain pass. In these cases, the destination represents an achievement as well as a memorable experience.
Another popular version is the point-to-point ride, where cyclists start in one place and finish in another, often returning by train, shuttle, or car pickup. This format allows riders to travel farther and see new landscapes without repeating the same roads.
Ultimately, destination rides shift the mindset from “how far did I ride?” to “where did the ride take me?”. By giving each ride a purpose and a story, destination rides help cyclists stay motivated, discover new places, and turn ordinary training miles into memorable adventures.
Here are some examples of great destination rides from Vancouver and surrounding area:
| Route | Distance (KM) | Elevation (M) | Time (Hrs) | Stages |
| Vancouver Northern region Leg | ||||
| Vancouver – Horseshow Bay – Squamish – Whistler | 130 | 1,600 | 6:00 | Day 1 |
| Whistler – Joffre Lakes | 61 | 1,200 | 2:30 | |
| Vancouver Sunshine Coast | ||||
| Vancouver – Horseshoe Bay | 24 | 230 | 1:30 | Day 2 |
| Ferry | ||||
| Langdale – Gibson – Sechelt – Madeira | 61 | 790 | 3:30 | |
| Vancouver Southern region Leg | ||||
| Vancouver – Chilliwack/Cultus Lake | 123 | 600 | 5:00 | Day 3 |
| Chilliwack – Mt Baker | 105 | 1,250 | 4:30 | Day 4 |
| Vancouver East Leg | ||||
| Penticton – Kelowna – Vernon | 115 | 1,200 | 5:00 | Day 3 |
| Golden – Banff | 140 | 1,800 | 6:00 | Day 4 |
| Vancouver Island Leg | ||||
| Vancouver – Victoria | 87 | 500 | 4:00 | Day 1 |
| Victoria – Duncan – Nanaimo | 115 | 650 | 5:00 | Day 2 |
| Nanaimo – Cumberland | 115 | 700 | 5:00 | Day 3 |
| Cumberland – Campbell River – Cumberland | 140 | 800 | 6:00 | Day 4 |
| USA leg | ||||
| Vancouver – Mount Vernon | 150 | 700 | 6:30 | Day 1 |
| Mount Vernon – Seattle | 130 | 650 | 6:00 | Day 2 |
| Seattle – Aberdeen | 175 | 865 | 7:30 | Day 3 |
| Aberdeen – Portland | 124 | 800 | 5:30 | Day 4 |
Destination Rides with Cycling Clubs:
There are cycling clubs and informal groups that already plan/coordinate destination rides throughout the Lower Mainland of BC. Here are just a few of the options available:
- Tri-City Cycling Club: Features out-of-town destination rides, gravel, and coffee rides.
- Altius Velo Outdoor Cycling Club: Offers special destination rides and community events in addition to weekly training.
- Lake City Cycle: Known for 50–100 km+ Saturday rides and “chill” Thursday rides.
- Meraloma Cycling Club: Focuses on scenic, varied routes with coffee/snack stops and major climbs like the Triple Crown.
- Mountain Ravens: Offers mountain bike rides across the North Shore and Fraser Valley.
- BC Bike Ride: Specializes in custom, guided tours ranging from day trips to multi-day adventures
See the Daily Hive’s 2025 article 5 cycling clubs to join in Metro Vancouver this summer
Whatever your ride, have a great one!