🚀 What is Gravel Cycling?
Gravel cycling is adventure cycling on unpaved roads—gravel, dirt, forest roads, and fire roads. It's perfect for cyclists looking to explore beyond paved surfaces with a more capable, versatile bike. Gravel routes offer:
- Exploration: Discover hidden backcountry routes and scenic vistas
- Community: Join a growing community of adventure cyclists
- Fitness: Build strength and endurance on varied terrain
- Adventure: Experience nature up close without technical mountain biking skills
🗺️ How to Use This Map
Find Your Location
Click "Show Current Location" to center the map on your position.
Color Mode
Toggle between random colors and difficulty-based colors (green=easy, red=hard).
Route Details
Click any route to see distance, elevation, difficulty, amenities, and original source link.
Switch Layers
Use the layer control to switch between Street View and Satellite View.
📊 Understanding Route Difficulty
Routes are rated 1-10 based on terrain difficulty, with grey indicating unrated routes:
| Rating | Difficulty | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ■ 1-2 | Easy | Mostly smooth, beginner-friendly |
| ■ 3-4 | Moderate | Some rough sections, intermediate riders |
| ■ 5-6 | Intermediate | Mixed terrain, experienced riders recommended |
| ■ 7-8 | Hard | Challenging terrain, fitness required |
| ■ 9-10 | Expert | Very challenging, advanced skills needed |
| ■ | No Rating | Rating not yet available |
📚 Data Sources
Routes on this map are sourced from multiple platforms:
- RideWithGPS: Community-contributed gravel cycling routes
- Community Submissions: Local cyclists contributing their favorite routes
- Ratings: Community-driven difficulty ratings and route information
🤝 Contributing Routes
Have a favorite gravel route? Help grow the community!
To submit or update a route:
- Create or update your route on RideWithGPS.com
- Share the link in the Alberta Gravel Cycling Facebook Group
- Our team will review and add it to the map
📧 Get in Touch
Questions, suggestions, or want to help maintain the map?
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Alberta Gravel Cycling Group