Cycling in the Southern Gulf Islands: Local tips
Long recognized as a great place for cycling, the Southern Gulf Islands offer quiet, rolling terrain through towering trees and along dramatic coastlines. They also have their own hazards that are different from those in towns and cities, with each island slightly different from the next. Make sure you stay safe, be respectful, and have fun with this guide to responsible cycling.
What to Expect
- There are lots of friendly people. It’s common to wave politely.
- The main routes are paved but vary in their state of repair.
- The shoulders are narrow or non-existent.
- There is often loose gravel and bumpy patches, potholes are common.
- There are no off-road routes, but there are some multi-use trails.
- There are many hills and blind corners.
- There are some fast, impatient drivers that aren’t accustomed to cyclists.
Know The Basics
Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of vehicles. Always follow the rules of the road, outlined in the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
- Ride single-file, never side by side.
- Wear a properly fitted helmet.
- Wear bright colours or reflective gear to be seen.
- Use a white front light and a red tail light from dusk to dawn.
- Use proper hand signals.
- Stay as near to the right as practical.
- Be prepared to use alternate roads if the traffic is heavy.
Drivers often do not realize that they are required to share the road. They should:
- Follow at a 3-second count distance.
- Pass at least 1 meter to the left of cyclists.
- Refrain from honking, unless there’s an emergency.
Plan for Ferry Traffic
Ferry terminals are congested during arrivals and departures and can be confusing.
- If the ferry has more than one stop, ask which end of the ship to park your bike for your destination.
- When you arrive in the islands, wait for directions from the ferry crew.
- After disembarking, wait until off-loading vehicle traffic has cleared before proceeding on the road.
- Take your time to get oriented.
- Look for signs posted to help cyclists navigate traffic, signage varies by island.
- When leaving the islands, walk your bicycle on pedestrian routes and onto the vessel.
- Ask a BC Ferries employee any questions or concerns about the terminal area.
Take Local Advice to heart
Our narrow, winding rural roads require extra consideration. When cycling in the Southern Gulf Islands, we encourage you to:
- Wear high-visibility clothing to stand out against dark shadows.
- Be mindful of blind spots and exercise caution.
- Consider using a handlebar mirror for rear visibility.
- Avoid stopping on narrow shoulders, along curves, or on hills.
- Consider using a pullout or side road if you are holding up traffic.
- Make eye contact with drivers so you’re aware of each other.
- Use safe shoulder checks, without riding off-course.
- Watch for wildlife. Deer can bound out suddenly in front of you.
- Take extra care in wet, slippery conditions.
- Carry the right tools; a pump, enough water, and a power charger for e-bikes.
- Use DIY bike repair stations on Galiano Island and in Ganges on Salt Spring Island.
- Be careful whenever trying to avoid potholes not to pull in front of cars.
There are limited areas for vehicles to safely pass, remember to always ride single-file.
