I keep a checklist of rides I want to do so that I can draw upon it for inspiration when it comes time to go for a ride, if I need help with deciding where to go. Two items on that list were riding out to an area about 20km east to try out some pathways I’d seen on google maps, and also to explore the north face of Burnaby Mountain a bit (with the stretch goal of a route from the upper trails to the lower trails). I combined them into one ride today aboard the Bombadil, and took one of my favourite paths to get out there, this old inter-urban rail trail that is basically unknown outside the locals who care for it:
The cherry blossom trees that Vancouver is known for at this time of year is top of most people’s mind for what defines this time of year, but I think I’m more excited about the greening in of the shrubs that line these trails.
The path I wanted to check out is below. It’s a bit peculiar, starting in a busy strip mall before following along a narrow stand of trees between the highway and townhouse complexes. I have to imagine it doesn’t feel very safe at night, particularly if you’re a woman. That aside, it’s quite interesting – just seems like a weird thing to construct, this winding sidewalk in the trees.
After that I rode through a park and some neighbourhood streets to arrive at Dageraad brewing for a burger and a beer. Then I headed for the north slope of Burnaby Mountain to ride up Velodrome trail and look at the topology uphill.
I noticed a hint of a trail off the “real” trail into an open area and decided to follow it, carrying my bike until it was well concealed from the trail then locking it in place. To my surprise I found some pretty old Western red cedars pretty quickly; perhaps they are the reason for the off-shoot trail. I also came across a wide creek ravine, below, where I listened to some Varied Thrush make their distinctive call. I still haven’t seen one, despite hearing them on multiple occasions.
Below is another older cedar, and where I parked my bike. I realized as I clamoured through the woods without a trail that finding my bike could become less straightforward than ideal – but turned out fine, I was well bounded by the terrain.
On the way home, a couple photos below. Surprised by the flooding of a section of path next to Barnet Hwy – would be pretty unfortunate for walkers, being 4-6″ deep and no easy way to avoid it.
And finally, I’ve got to include the colour palette that defines late March in Vancouver: cherry blossoms and forsythia.
Leave a Reply