Sat., Aug. 9: 9AM start

Registration is open

Poco-Alouette Grando: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/52051124  (last revised 05 Aug 9:05 am)

The PoCo Gravel Fondo explores  trail networks along the Fraser, Pitt and Coquitlam Rivers, through cranberry and blueberry fields, and forest parks  networks  to the west and east of the Pitt River. The route is about 70% on these trails and  30% on quiet connecting rural and secondary roads. The trails for the most part are hard gravel surfaced dikes and paths, (some are paved). Wider tires are recommended but virtually any sized tires can be ridden comfortably and safely.

The start is at the Waves Coffee Cafe at the corner of Shaughnessy St. in the heart of the old Port Coquitlam downtown. There is ample 'FREE' parking one block north of both the start and finish location just off Kingsway Ave with access off either Maple St. or Algin Ave. The start location/parking area can easily be reached via the Sky Train Millennium Line from the Coquitlam Centre Station and a short 3 km bike ride to the start.

These are multi-user urban trails. The dikes are general wide with good visibility. The visibility is more limited on the forest trails, stay alert, respect other trail users: walkers, fisher persons, cyclists, horse riders and bears*.  Do take the time to enjoy a social hour or two at the pub following the ride.

* Bears are very active this time of year, particularly on the west side of the Pitt R. There are warning signs everywhere and lots of bear droppings. We encountered one very near the city town centre near the finish. Give them space, group up (if you can), talk loudly but calmly, and give them time to wander away.

See you at the start, I plan to ride. Enjoy the route and the ride!

Gary