I have a bunch of routes set to public on RWGPS which can be readily found by searching by anyone. I tend to set my routes to private if they are WIP or not really something that I’d recommend someone try – ie, maybe they are just a means to get to somewhere that is only interesting to me. I’m not too careful about it, as the views on any given public route is typically very low – maybe 20 views.
So when we were at the lookout that this route is built around and a cyclist clamoured up the nearby steps carrying their bike, and quickly discovered they had looked up nearby routes and came across mine, I was gobsmacked. Turned out they had a plan for a Bowen Island ride that fell through and looked for alternatives nearby – and Caulfield Loop was there. Thankfully I had added a decently accurate description (hike-a-bike involved!) and some POI’s to the map because I intended for it to be ridden by others, but the area around the lookout is pretty brutal, and to be honest I’d never considered what it’s like to ride in reverse direction (spoiler: not good!).
I rode the Bombadil this time, having done this route on the Evasion previously. Here it is along the huge retaining wall next to the highway at one point:
The approach from the Lion’s Gate bridge traces up to near the highway and then follows along it, for the most part – taking quieter streets and a few nice little trail connections. There’s a long staircase on a creek crossing but the slope is gentle and there’s a parallel path to roll the bike along, so it’s not unpleasant at all. It passes through an elementary school ground with exposed rock that is fun to ride – and no doubt fun to play on for the kids.
I like to have a beer at a scenic lookout personally, and this route is well suited to such pursuits with a liquor store en route shortly before the lookout to ensure a cold beverage. From there it’s a couple blocks of pavement followed by some charming trails that are a bit awkward to carry a bike along before you’re at the viewpoint.
And here it is. There’s no bench, though I’ve thought about trying to construct one. Next time I’ll try to remember my camping chair.
We sat around and had snacks and our lagers for a while, then unexpectedly a rider climbed up the stairs we’d soon be going down. As noted at the beginning, they had found and decided to try my route, aware there was hike-a-bike but was not expecting THIS amount – fortunately, the uphill slog was just about over for them, and they were in surprisingly good spirits for what they’d just climbed up. Going down definitely has its challenges too, but at least sections are rideable that are too steep to pedal up. It’s steep enough I dropped my bike once (see below), but once this lookout trail wraps up, things get better. It’s still rocky and steep in spots and only a MTB with good rider should attempt to ride it all!
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