Building More Than Trails….Building Community

If you build it..they will come.  We want Crowsnest Pass to become a premier mountain bike destinations and along with that bring economic and social benefits that spill over into the community.  Mountain bikers have an impact on local businesses when they travel to a mountain biking recreation area, this includes: accommodations, travel expenses, food, as well as mountain bike expenses.  UROC has been building trails and creating riding opportunities and events for over a decade.  Year over year we see an increase in trail usage from locals and visitors.  People plan multi day trips, stay in local accommodations, shop at the local grocery store, eat at the local restaurants, and pick up whatever gear they need along the way at local stores.
Mountain biking promotes an active healthy lifestyle. With the rise in sedentary lifestyles and obesity in society today, mountain biking provides another method for people to engage in physical activity while enjoying nature. Statistics Canada indicates only 15% of Canadians are participating in the 30 minutes per day or 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous physical activity. A mountain bike ride can range from 30 minutes to several hours.
There is a great cross-over with mountain biking and trail running. Mountain bike trails also provide an area to recreate for trail runners and hikers.
Here are some comments of local businesses and trail users:
Danielle Radvak
Danielle RadvakCo-Owner/Manager/Pizza Overlord of the Pass Beer Co.
“The outdoor lifestyle is such a huge draw to the beautiful Crowsnest Pass. The Pass Beer Co. has seen first hand the joy that our trails and mountain adventures bring to visitors and locals alike. This past summer we saw a large number of customers come to the area specifically for mountain biking (and then beer!). So much so that we had a custom bike rack built to accommodate our biking friends! They love the small town feel and friendly vibe. On a personal note, my husband and my son both love mountain biking and use our fabulous trails as often as they can. My daughter, our husky and myself spend our free time exploring local hikes. Adventures are the best!”
Marlies van Dijk
Marlies van DijkRegistered Nurse and Calgary resident
“We have the perfect topography in the Pass for mountain bike trails. They offer natural obstacles and diversity that are the foundation for amazing single track trails. Bikers love spending time with other bike lovers which leads to visiting local establishments and making a “holiday” out of every weekend. The economic prosperity that can grow from a biking town is often unappreciated. Biking is one avenue of tourism that could help the Pass prosper into a mecca for an outdoor epicentre.

There is nothing like riding in the Pass. I love the old school feel of the trails. They are playful and around every corner a new surprise. The reaction from newbies when they ride School of Rock is worth it every time.”

Julie Englelhardt & Eric Zilinski
Julie Englelhardt & Eric ZilinskiMom of Three Rowdy Boys & Heavy Equipment Technician
“We have been visiting Crowsnest Pass for quite a few years and have immensely enjoyed our time here. With Covid, we finally decided to bite the bullet and make the move. The only thing we regret is not doing it sooner! With trails right out the back door for mountain biking, running, and hiking, xc skiing right out side of town, and downhill skiing in town and a great pool in the summer, we feel like it is the perfect place to raise our boys!”
Brandy Fehr
Brandy FehrCNP Chamber of Commerce
“To say Mountain Biking has flourished in our community over the past few years would be an understatement.
In summer months most staging areas start to fill up by 7 AM. With trails connecting from the west end of Crowsnest (Coleman) all the way to the east (Bellevue), it’s rare you’ll come across a crowded trail. In the winter months these trails are often utilized by runners, hikers, snowshoer’s, skiers and fat bikes. UROC has put an astounding amount of work into our trails to attract and accommodate bikers of all ages and skill levels, this helping to attract Crowsnest as a family holiday destination.
Having access to so many trails has opened up opportunity for events like Crowsnest 100, BC Enduro and UROC’s weekly organized rides to be hosted right in our very own backyard filling up accommodations and restaurants throughout Crowsnest Pass.
Over the years as trails have expanded we’ve seen more bike specific businesses recognize the demand for their products/services here, leading them to choose Crowsnest Pass as a place to call home; Alpenland, Cognation and Sweet Rider’s just to name a few.
The Crowsnest Pass Chamber of Commerce highly recommends grabbing your UROC membership and hitting the trails this summer!”
Pictured left to right:
Melisa Atkinson (Secretary) – Co-Owner of Gregs liquor and cold Beer
Dianne Gray (Vice President) – Executive Director of Crowsnest Community Support Society
Koral Lazzarotto (Treasurer)- Co-Owner of K & M Custom Homes Ltd.
Daina Lazzarotto (President)- Office Manager of Crowsnest Pass Golf Club
Brad Edmondson (Director)- Owner of CROW WORKS Engraving & Signs Ltd.
Tim May (Director)- Manager of Rum Runner
Bryce Andreasen (Director)- Branch Manager of Scotiabank Blairmore

Planning your next mountain bike trip? Here are a few ideas for you to plan your holiday around. GoCrowsnest is your best resource for planning your stay in the Crowsnest Pass. While you are in town, grab a copy of the latest Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Guide.

Map and Trails Resources

Crowsnest Pass Information

Biking Organizations