ATLANTIC CANADA BLOG

21 February 2020

Atlantic Canada is the closest Canadian province to the UK, with only 5-6 hours flying time.  Whilst there, head to the great outdoors and explore some of the regions national parks. Here’s a roundup of the ones that you can find in this region.

Kouchibouguac National Park, New Brunswick

Kouchibouguac, which means ‘river of the long tides, was named by the First Nations Mi’kmaq people. This park, which stretches along the Acadian Coastal Drive on New Brunswick’s east coast, is made up of salt marches, barrier islands, Acadian forest, bogs, sheltered lagoons, tidal river, freshwater systems and miles of white sand dunes.  There’s a host of activities on offer including canoeing, swimming, whale watching, seal spotting, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing,  tobogganing, biking and hiking.

Kejimkujik National Park & Historic Site, Nova Scotia

Set within the UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere is the largest inland national park in Atlantic Canada which is known for its island-dotted lakes, forests, round glacial hills and incredible wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bears, bobcats, beavers, owls and loons. Activities abound including star-gazin,  fishing, canoeing, boating, kayaking, and swimming.as well as hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing.

Terra Nova National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador

In Canada’s easternmost national park you’ll find exciting waters for canoeing and sea kayaking, trails for hiking, golf courses and wildlife encounters including the Terra Nova Moose and black bear. Set along Bonavista Bay with views of the Atlantic ocean, the area includes hilly woods, fjords lakes and rocky cliffs.

Torngat Mountains National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador

This remote and stunning wilderness stretches from Saglek Fjord to the northern tip of Labrador Taking its name from the Inuktitut word Tongait (meaning 'place of spirits'), it’s reached only by charter plane or boat from Goose Bay, Nain or Kangiqsualujjuaq and best explored with one of the local Inuit people. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic polar bear, hike the wildflower-cloaked tundra and marvel at the vast barren mountains that rise thousands of feet from the Atlantic Ocean.

Prince Edward Island National Park, Prince Edward Island

Stunning beaches with pristine white sand, wind-sculpted dunes, sand pits, and barrier islands can be found at the province’s only national park - a stunning landscape that extends for 40 kilometres along the Gulf of St Lawrence shore.  Visit the house that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables, take the Homestead Trail, visit farms and fishing communities and hike or bike as you look for wildlife and birdlife.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton is known for the scenic 185 mile long Cabot Trail (see self drive here) where visitors can spot moose, black bears, coyote, endangered Canada lynx, and bald eagles.  Explore the incredible cliffs, hike the Highlands Plateau and the French, North and Mackenzie mountains or cycle, fish, kayak, canoe, swim and golf this stunning playground.

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador 

The second-largest national park in Atlantic Canada and a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, part of the Lone Range Mountains stretches over 1,805 square kilometres of Western Newfoundland. The incredible scenery such as alpine plateau, coastal lowlands, glacial valleys, sheer cliffs, waterfalls, pristine lakes, and freshwater fjords is a feast for the eyes. See the 5,000 moose that call this place home, visit small fishing villages that dot the shoreline, and enjoy camping, cycling, hiking, and boating. Cruise through the billion-year-old Western Brook Pond Fjord to see huge waterfalls (including the 1,150-foot Pissing Mare Falls) and the cliffside sculpture known as The Tin Man.

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick 

Discover the richness of the Acadian forest and learn the secrets of the Bay of Fundy, home to the highest tides in the world.  Hike mountains and valleys, past sparkling waterfalls and crystal-clear streams.  Look for flora and fauna, including the rare bird’s-eye primrose, found only in Fundy National Park.  Row out on beautiful Bennett Lake in a canoe or kayak or simply take a stroll along the beach.  

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN WONDERFUL WHISTLE

January, 16 2020

While Whistler may be best known for its world-famous Whistler Mountain Bike Park and renowned events like Crankworx and RBC GranFondo, it also has its share of well-kept secrets. Over 300 miles of single and doubletrack trails to choose from, and a bike culture like no other, make Whistler a mountain biker’s paradise. Explore Whistler on two wheels and unearth something big this summer.

WHISTLER MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK 
The number one lift-accessed trail network in the world gives you more reasons than ever to make the pilgrimage. From the striking Top of the World alpine trail all the way down to the village, there are trails for every rider and ability.

The ultimate gravity-fed downhill biking experience, drawing mountain bikers from across the world
All levels and abilities catered for with four mountain zones, green trails, technical double blacks, jump trails and more
Lift access available from Whistler Village (Skier’s Plaza) or via Whistler Creekside Gondola
The Creekside Expansionbrings five brand new trails, 644 vertical metres and a gondola of its own

Downhill Bike Rentals
Downhill specific bikes are a must for The Whistler Bike Park and are suitable for all ability levels. A good downhill bike provides a good mix of stability and playfulness, allowing you to have a fun and safe experience in the park.

Standard downhill fleet bikes are available for rent as well as high performance or premium downhill bikes. Junior sizes are also available. 

Full Day Bike Park Lessons
AGES: 17+. Do you have mountain bike experience on trails (downhill or cross country)? If yes, then a half or full day program may be all that you need to get started in the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. Full day bike park lessons run daily at 10:00am

Half Day Bike Park Lessons

AGES: 17+. Whether it’s a dialing in corners, or practicing pressure control and balance on your bike, a half-day lesson is enough to shake off some of the rust, and get you excited about riding downhill. Half day bike park lessons start at either 10:00am or 2:00pmand run for 3 hours. Max 4 riders per group.

Intro to Park 

AGES: 17+. Intro to Park is an intro clinic tailored for anyone who hasn’t ridden in the Whistler Bike Park before. If you are a first-time mountain bike rider looking to get a taste of the park and develop basic downhill skills. If you’re comfortable riding a bike on pavement or easy single track cross-country, we’ll have you loving our easy cruising trails and learning areas. This package includes 3 runs down the park only. Lessons run daily at 10:00am or 2:00pm.

DFX Kids & Youth Mountain Bike Camp
AGES: 5 - 12 & 13-16. The kids and youth camp programs offers lessons that will provide your children with the fundamental foundations to the sport, in groups that are suitable for any level of experience. 1 & 5 day campsare available with lunch included. Maximum of 6 riders per group.Lessons run from 9:30 AM - 3:15 PM.

Private Bike Park Lessons
AGES: 5 - 99. The ultimate day of learning can be achieved with a private lesson. Whether it's with a group of your best friends, or you want to tackle the world of mountain biking one on one, your private coach can tailor a program specifically to meet your learning needs. Year after year, these private lessons deliver the highest levels of coaching, personalizing your progression on your bike to maximize your skill development. No matter what your experience level, the coaches will leave you itching for more. Coaching you on any trail, through any feature on the mountain, we ensure you'll be riding better and with more confidence. 3 or 6 hour private lessons are available. Private lessons run at 10:00am and 2:00pm. Contact us for rates and more information. 

WHISTLER CROSS COUNTRY MOUNTAIN BIKING 

XC, all-mountain, enduro, trail riding? Whistler’s trail network offers plenty for those who aren’t afraid to pedal. Endless variety from the alpine to the rainforest with loamy turns, granite rock rolls, waterfalls and spectacular views. Spend weeks exploring the trails in enduro specific-rides that challenge and reward in equal measure.

Cross-Country Tours
Whistler offers fantastic cross-country riding that will have you adventuring through the forest and sharpening your skills in no time. If you are learning how to tackle the trails or simply want to explore the vast trails network around Whistler, there is a tour to satisfy your desire to get rolling.

Half Day Guided Whistler Lake Tour 

Embark on a leisurely cycle along Whistler’s valley trail network with a knowledgeable guide. Take in some of BC’s striking mountain landscape while you ride through lush forests & visit some of the many pristine lakes dotted throughout the valley. Half Day tours run for 2 hours. Max 4 riders per group. From £48 per person

Half Day Guided Cross Country Tour

With an expansive Cross Country (XC) trail network with over 350km of intertwined single track, why not have your guide custom tailor an epic Cross Country ride. Choose the perfect length to suit your level. This program is perfect for any level of rider with limited time, who’s looking to maximize their riding experience while in Whistler. Half day Cross Country tours start at either 10:00 AM or 2:00 PM and run for 3 hours. Max. 4 riders per group. From £64 per person

Learn to Mountain Bike 

Have you always wanted to venture beyond the pavement and explore single track trails? Join an adventure guide as they introduce the skills needed to safely explore mountain biking terrain. All skill levels are welcome. Tours are 2 or 3 hours duration with private or group tours available. From £68 per person

Valley Bike Tours

Enjoy scenic Whistler by mountain bike. Learn about the history, geography and the key nature spots with qualified guides. From beginner to intermediate, your skill level will be catered for. From £70 per person

Mountain Biking 101

1.5 hour duration. Whether you’re looking for an introduction to the basics, or the opportunity to enhance your riding skills on climbs, drops, structures and technical sections, the team at Cross Country Connection will get you riding with confidence. From £75 per person

Lost Lake Park Tour

A "must do" while in Whistler. Lost Lake Park is a bikers paradise. From easy rolling paths to West-Coast style trails, this tour will take you to all corners of these scenic Whistler highlights. Tour duration is 2 hours and suitable for all ability levels. Rates includes bike & helmet. From £75 per person

Single Track Tour

A custom built tour geared to your needs and your riding. Explore the trails that make this Valley famous. Take full advantage of your riding time in Whistler by teaming up with an experienced guide who knows the area. From £86 per person

THE WHISTLER EXPERIENCE

Whistler's list of summer activities is a mile long and includes a lot more than just some of the best riding in the world. When you’re not out enjoying the bike park or cross country trails, you can explore one of Whistler’s beautiful lakes, beaches, Alpine hiking trails and gondolas or adventure activities (think zip lines, 4x4 tours or horse-riding to name a few), before finishing your day off in one of our world class restaurants or experience the vibrant mountain village nightlife.