MEC Victoria Spring Gravel Grind

Location Victoria Date April 14 Distances 30 km, 40 km Cost $35–$50 Website events.mec.ca

Since 2013, mec has been getting people out on bikes with the company’s Century Rides: low-cost, accessible road rides organized by stores across the country. This year, mec is getting dirty with that model. The Victoria Spring Gravel Grind will feature a style of ride – muddy and bumpy – that the company is planning to do more of.

“If you look at the spirit of adventure that mec is known for, that spirit is something you can get a real taste of on a gravel route like this,” said Cam Miller, mec national activity coordinator. “You’re on logging roads, going through forests with a bunch of people, just having a great time.”

In contrast with the gravel, the ride ends on the Western Speedway. You can do a victory lap on some pretty smooth tarmac.