Every great trail starts with a vision. For Quesnel’s Gold Rush Cycling Club, that vision is creating a trail network with something for everyone. Their latest project brings that vision one step closer with the development of a new signature intermediate downhill trail at Dragon Mountain.
With support from the Recreation Infrastructure program, the club is building nearly two kilometres of purpose-built trail that will connect with the recently revitalized 7 Dwarves trail. Together, the two routes will create Dragon Mountain Provincial Park’s first continuous, blue-rated technical descent from the summit, offering more than 300 metres of elevation over 3.5 kilometres of flow, technical features and scenic riding.
“The vision has always been to build a trail network that welcomes more riders,” said Ian van Leusden, director, Gold Rush Cycling Club and contracted trails coordinator for the City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District. “When we spoke with trail users during the community engagement sessions for the Dragon Mountain Trails Master Plan, one message came through loud and clear. Riders wanted an intermediate downhill trail that would help bridge the gap between the beginner/intermediate climb and our advanced descents. This project is about giving the users the confidence to progress while still delivering the fun and excitement Dragon Mountain is known for.”
Developed in collaboration with the Lhtako Dene Nation, BC Parks, City of Quesnel, Cariboo Regional District and the local riding community, the project directly responds to that feedback. By creating a true, blue-rated descent from the summit, the new trail will support rider progression, encourage more youth and families to get involved in the sport and continue growing Dragon Mountain’s reputation as a destination for mountain biking and outdoor recreation.
This isn’t the first time Northern Development has supported trail development at Dragon Mountain. Previous investments helped expand the park’s growing network, and this latest addition continues that momentum, creating even more opportunities for riders of all skill levels to experience.
