Mountain Air Bike Park, Burnaby, BC (2008)

Skills Parks

The ~2.5 acre bike facility opened in May 2008 as the largest public Bike Skills Park in the world. Its signature and custom-built features, central proximity within Greater Vancouver, and multi-level design for novice to advanced riders quickly made it a go to destination.

 

The Metro Vancouver area is a hub for some of the most unique and renown mountain bike terrain in the world. ‘Mountain Air’, located in the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area, was developed to balance the demands for recreation and protection of the environment. It is a dedicated space where mountain bikers can gain crucial bike handling skills in a safe environment.

 

Prior to design and construction, a management plan and environmental study were completed to minimize impact. In addition, as the area was formerly a gun target and skeet range, extensive geotechnical work was undertaken to stabilize the contaminated waste which included a protective engineered fill soil cap covering the entire site.

 

The Bike Park engages progressive skills development through self exploration, and provides challenge and enjoyment at any age or ability level. It includes dirt jumps, hillside features and drops, and north shore style descents with cornering berms and wall rides. The lower flat area consists of skills development zones and range of technical elements with wooden pump track, speed trials, balance box, teeter totters, and various log and rock challenges.

 

Alongside amenities, a 20-foot galvanized steel sculpture of “Free Rider” completes the Bike Park bringing together arts, recreation and the environment.