Join us for the Cowichan Dreamer Rally!

This rally aims to build confidence, empower, create connections, and explore beautiful places in a supportive setting. We will share knowledge, learn by doing, and above all else, have fun!

Route will take you to some of my favorite places - little hidden trails in Saanich, Sooke Wilderness Hills Park and finally the beautiful Cowichan Valley!

Day 1

Riders will meet at Tsawwassen terminal on the morning of August 20 to take the ferry over to the island. Once we land, we will start our ride to Goldstream park, riding some flowy trails and finding cute snack spots along the way. Most of the route is on bike trails or through quiet neighborhoods, with a cute waterfall at the campground at the end.

Day 2

Second day will be the hardest due to the routes elevation and the crossing over Malahat. But as soon as we get to Sooke Wilderness Park you’ll see it’s all worth it. You’ll be rewarded by beautiful views and fun descents before reaching Cowichan Valley Trail and ride through the rainforest to Stoltz Pool.

Day 3

August 22nd will be all about community vibes and choosing your own adventure for the day. There are two route options and you can pick which one you like - exploring some remote FSRs or taking a trip to Lake Cowichan and taking a river dip. Both routes  take you by cafes and resupply points. We will meet back at the campground and end the day with a dinner together.

Day 4

The last day we head over to Mill Bay to take a short ferry to Brentwood Bay. Expect rolling hills through the countryside, with an optional snack stop at Cowichan Bay. Once we reach Saanich Peninsula we ride to Swartz Bay to take ferry back to Tsawwassen.

Looking forward to this adventure!

Erika (she/her), Gravel Buddies

FAQs

How do I register?

You can find the event on Eventbrite! Registration for Buddies Members opens on July 10th and for everyone else on July 15th (both at 8 pm PST).

What’s the cost and what is included?

The event cost is $120 per person and it includes camping for all the nights. You are responsible for getting and paying for your ferry tickets, food, and supplies.

Is this a race?  

Absolutely not. Everyone rides at their own pace and if wanted you can join the group of riders who will be going at a similar speed. This should be about sharing good vibes, helping each other if needed, and above all, having fun!

Is it a group ride?

We won’t be riding as one group and won’t wait for every rider, but you don’t need to worry about being left behind. We will have a WhatsApp chat where we can share everyone’s location to make sure we are not missing any riders. 

Do I need to have previous bikepacking / gravel riding skills?

Having previous skills would be very handy, as riding a loaded bike for multiple days, plus the elevation, is not an easy task! That being said, everyone is encouraged to join, just keep in mind it’s at your own risk. 

Do I need a water filter? 

Unless you plan to carry lots of water with you, a water filter comes in very handy. There is no drinking water at Stoltz Pool campsite (day 2 and 3), but filtering water from the nearby river is an option. Stoltz Pool has also well water and is on water boil advisory although the water doesn’t have a good taste.
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There are water taps at Goldstream Park and in towns we will be crossing.

Are there resupply points?

Except for day 2, when we won’t be going through any town, you can get groceries all other days. Grocery stores are marked on the Ride with GPS maps. 

What if I have a mechanical on my bike that needs to be fixed?

Having some basic bike mechanic skills is recommended. Unfortunately there aren’t many bike shops along the way, only in greater Victoria area or in Duncan. Please come prepared, carrying a spare tube, pump and a fix kit.