The best gravel rides around Surrey

Boundary Bay Wildlife Management Area protects a vast stretch of intertidal mudflats, salt marsh, and eelgrass habitat along Boundary Bay. The area supports large numbers of migratory shorebirds and waterfowl, making it one of the most important bird habitats on Canada’s Pacific coast. Its accessible trails, consistent bird activity, and ever-changing tidal scenery make it an especially rewarding place to explore on foot or by bike.

Boundary Bay Dyke Trail is a long, flat route along the shoreline, with uninterrupted views across mudflats and the open water. Its wide gravel surface is ideal for walking and cycling, with plenty of benches and access points along the way. Set along a major migratory route, the trail is especially known for birdlife and beautiful, expansive coastal scenery.

The Pitt River Regional Greenway follows the Fraser and Pitt Rivers and is a flat, easy route that is part of a wider network of cycling and walking paths through Pitt Meadows. The trail runs through open farmland, with long, uninterrupted views of the river and the surrounding mountains. With minimal tree cover and expansive scenery, it feels exposed and spacious, shaped more by the river and sky than by forest. There are plenty of access points and parking at both ends, making it perfect for a short or extended hike along the riverfront.

Smooth gravel. Beautiful views of Boundary Bay and Mount Baker.

The Seymour River Suspension Bridge was completed and opened in December 2018. This made it possible to walk the Fisherman's Trail (North) all the way through again. After the former Twin Bridges had to be demolished in 2014 following a rockslide and damming of the Seymour River, there was no longer a crossing at this point in the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve. The Twin Bridges were originally built in 1908 to carry pipelines and were later supplemented by a parallel pedestrian bridge. Years later, the two bridges were combined to form one bridge. https://www.vancouvertrails.com/blog/seymour-river-suspension-bridge/

Check the wind forecast and plan your ride accordingly.

Hydrate

Early Industry: Oyster harvesting and shucking have been part of BC's coastal history since the late 19th century, initially focusing on the native Olympia oyster. Pacific Oyster Introduction: The introduction of the larger Pacific oyster in the early 20th century spurred the growth of the industry, leading to the establishment of dedicated shucking plants. Delta Example: One early significant plant was the BC Packers Limited shucking plant in Delta, operating from 1941 until its closure due to pollution in 1963. This plant processed both local and oysters from other BC farms. Hand Shucking: Traditionally, oyster shucking in BC was done entirely by hand, a labor-intensive process under strict sanitary regulations.