The best gravel rides around Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson)

The gravel biking trails in Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson) are primarily characterized by extensive forest paths, often following winding creeks like Benson Creek. You'll encounter varied elevation changes, making for a dynamic riding experience through natural landscapes.

While many routes in Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson) are rated as difficult, there is one moderate option available. The Haslam Suspension Bridge – Haslam Trail loop from Vancouver Island Connector is a 17.3-mile (27.8 km) trail that offers a less strenuous ride, leading through the Haslam Trail and across the suspension bridge.

Many routes offer beautiful scenery. For example, the View of Upper Collier Dam Lake – Colliery Dam Park loop from Northfield provides views of Upper Collier Dam Lake and passes through Colliery Dam Park. You can also find scenic spots like Cameron Lake Roadside View in the wider region.

Yes, the region is home to several beautiful waterfalls. While not directly on every gravel route, you can explore nearby highlights such as Ammonite Falls, Hole-in-the-Wall, and Crystal Falls, which are popular attractions in the area.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson), with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Many riders appreciate the varied terrain, extensive forest paths, and the opportunity to explore natural features like creeks and lakes.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Lower Uterbraten – Forest Path loop from Seafair is a difficult 48.3-mile (77.7 km) trail with significant elevation gain, typically taking over 8 hours to complete. Another demanding option is the Forest Path loop from Benson Creek and Ammonite Falls North Parking Lot, which is 54.8 miles (88.2 km) long.

Yes, all the featured gravel bike routes in Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson) are designed as loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics simpler for your ride.

While gravel biking is possible year-round, the best seasons are typically spring, summer, and fall when the weather is milder and trails are generally drier. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially during wetter months, as some forest paths can become muddy.

Yes, the region features several beautiful lakes and parks. The View of Upper Collier Dam Lake – Colliery Dam Park loop from Northfield takes you through Colliery Dam Park and offers views of the lake. Other nearby natural attractions include Heart Lake and Colliery Dam Park itself.

While specific crowd levels vary, exploring the longer, more challenging routes like the Lower Uterbraten loop from Nanaimo, which is 40 miles (64.4 km) long, might offer a more secluded experience due to their demanding nature and length. Generally, weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.

Access points for the trails often start from various locations around Area C (Arrowsmith-Benson), such as Seafair, Northfield, or the Vancouver Island Connector. Specific parking information can usually be found on the individual route pages on komoot, but generally, trailheads are accessible by car.