Cumberland, tucked away on Vancouver Island, is a mountain biking paradise, offering everything from beginner-friendly trails to adrenaline-pumping downhills. As a local jewelry designer, I'm deeply inspired by the rugged island beauty, channeling that love for the outdoors into both my rides and my designs.

Trails:

Start by checking out TrailForks for the latest trail info. Whether you're looking for a smooth ride or a challenging downhill, this app has you covered. Consider supporting the United Riders of Cumberland (UROC). Memberships or donations go towards maintaining our incredible trails.

My Amore Pendant Necklace was named after one of the trails in Cumberland Forest. The pendant is a tribute to the trails and my love for the ride.

Ladies’ Rides:

Mountain biking in Cumberland is more than just riding; it’s about community. If you're looking to meet other women who share the same love for biking, these rides are a perfect way to connect:

Join in on Ladies’ Night every Wednesday, mid-May through mid-September. It’s the perfect way to connect with other women riders of all levels. These girls' night-out rides have been such a source of inspiration, both on and off the trails. They even inspired the creation of my Fuel for the Soul Necklace, a design based on the geometry of my bike—because biking isn't just a hobby; it’s a way of life.

Check out Cranked Girls and Mud Mavens for more casual rides and meet-ups. These local Facebook groups are great for meeting new biking buddies. They even sell jerseys if you need a keepsake.

Gravity MTB offers a variety of ladies programs and clinics.

Gear Up:

Need a quick tune-up or forget something important? Check out the local Cumberland bike shops:

• Gravity Garage: They offer Forbidden bike demos—perfect for testing out this Vancouver Island local brand! They also have bike clothing for sale.
• Dodge City Cycles, Western Bike Company, NOBL Wheels, and Beaufort Cycles are also great options for grabbing last-minute essentials or simply geeking out over bike gear.

Apres Ride:

Post-ride, I’m all about relaxing with good food, great drinks, and of course, a few shiny accessories to feel put together after a long day on the trails. Here are a few of my favorite spots to unwind:

• Cumberland Brewing Company: Craft beer and bites. Grab a growler to take home!
• Biblio Taco: Who doesn’t love tacos after a ride? It’s a must. 
• Dark Side Chocolates: Pocket chocolate, anyone? Perfect for keeping energy up on your ride and a delicious treat at the end of the day.
• The Waverly Hotel: When the ride is done, and the sun sets, this is the spot to enjoy live music and local craft beers.

And while you’re enjoying your post-ride relaxation, don’t forget to accessorize. I always find that slipping on a piece from my Mountain Bike Jewelry Collection after a day on the trails brings me back to that serene, laid-back island vibe.

Where to Stay:

For those looking to extend their adventure overnight, Cumberland has some great spots to rest your head:

• The Waverly Hotel: It has everything—good food, local craft beer, live music, and DJs if you're up for a night out. Despite being called a "hotel," they only have two cozy rooms available for booking, so plan ahead!
• The Riding Fool Hostel: Probably the cleanest and most charming hostel I've ever stayed at! With eight private rooms in different configurations, it’s the perfect place for both solo riders and groups. Bonus: you can even book in French.

There are also plenty of Airbnbs in the area, offering unique stays to match the vibe of your bike trip.

Bike Care:

• The Gravity MTB Suspension Service Centre offers quick turnaround times and reliable premium suspension services in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island.
• Beaufort and DCC both have service shops. If you don’t mind a little drive, Mountain City Cycle in Courtenay often has next-day service. 

*Please note that all local bike shops are closed Sunday/Monday. 

Self-Care:

After an intense ride, nothing feels better than a massage to wind down. Check out Tessa Rowan RMT or Cumberland Village Wellness for some well-deserved pampering. I love combining outdoor beauty with self-care, and if you’re like me, a little piece of nature-inspired jewelry serves as a reminder of that connection.

Treat Yourself:

Whether you're tearing up the trails or winding down after an epic ride, your love for the island and biking deserves to be celebrated. Pieces like the Maeve chain ring stud earrings and Fuel for the Soul Necklace are more than just jewelry—they're keepsakes that capture the spirit of adventure, ready to wear on and off the trails.