This installation of our new series of guides to Metro Vancouver cycling destinations features a trip south of the city to the charming waterfront community of Steveston in the City of Richmond.
Why: A wonderfully scenic, wonderfully flat area to ride to as a destination, or to just ride through. There is a lot to see – from the Fisherman’s Wharf to Garry Point to Steveston Village itself. A popular destination for locals and tourists alike, Steveston is home to many awesome restaurants and cafes. Big plus, there are quite a few public washrooms (very necessary for cyclists).
Difficulty: Richmond, in general, is very flat, and Steveston is no different. Getting to Steveston may be a long trip, depending on where you start, but once you're there, the area itself is suitable for all fitness and skill levels, and all kinds of bicycles.
How to get there: Living in Vancouver, I usually take either the Arthur Laing or North Arm Bridge (popularly known as the “Cambie SkyTrain Bridge”) to get to Richmond when travelling by bicycle. Once in Richmond, I make my way to Russ Baker Way, and over the No 2 Road bridge. Then, I choose between taking the West Dyke Trail (the scenic route) or Railway Avenue (the direct route). The West Dyke Trail sweeps along the outside of west Richmond, from Terra Nova Park all the way south to Steveston. It is a gravel path, but the gravel is hard-packed and I would say suitable for almost every bike. Railway Avenue runs north-south, and it is my preferred route to take if I’m going to stay on the road because there is a very generous dedicated bike lane. If you feel the bike path is still uncomfortable because of the proximity of the cars, you can insulate yourself further by taking the Railway Greenway. It is a dedicated bike/pedestrian path that parallels Railway Avenue.
Important notes:
- The West Dyke Trail and other gravel paths in Richmond are shared by cyclists and pedestrians. Please be respectful of other people’s safety and do not ride recklessly. This also applies to the Railway Greenway.
- Steveston and the roads around it can be very congested with traffic during the summer. Be very careful of cars looking for parking!
- There is a great cyclist-friendly café in Steveston called Sanctuary Café. It is a popular stop for many cyclists, and there are bike racks available so you can hang your bike while you grab a coffee or pastry. If you are new to the area, the staff at Sanctuary are friendly and knowledgeable and are always willing to help out if you need directions.
- Steveston makes a great stop on a longer ride for logistic purposes. There are many public washrooms. Food and drink is readily available. And a nice added benefit is there are so many backdrops to shoot a cool picture of your bike.
Brian Lim likes to ride bikes (sometimes with his camera). He's a complete and consummate amateur - both in cycling and in photography, and says he doesn't take himself seriously - and neither should you. Lim wants to share his love of cycling, so please reach out if you want to talk! You'll find him on Instagram at @wheelsandwhisky.
