West Bragg Creek A LTA .

YYC: CALGARY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Humble, relaxing and cool is how Dwayne Ellis, a co-founder of the XC Bragg Creek Performance team, describes Bragg Creek, Alta., though you better be an efficient climber if you plan to mountain bike in the area. A paved parking lot serves an extensive 141-km trail network (with another 300 km on the other side) and fits about 600 cars. Bragg Creek’s proximity to bike-friendly Calgary (30 km away) with the city’s Olympic legacy and infrastructure makes the area a big draw for roadies and mountain bikers alike. “For a day or a week, we’ll show them every trail imaginable, if they have the time,” says Ellis about taking out a person or small group.

With most climbs topping out at around 2,300 m, it’s a great place for altitude training. “From a training perspective, we have trails that accommodate world-class training and riding,” says Ellis. Epic trails include Braggin’ Rights to Merlin View, a loop you can do in one hour if you hammer, or closer to two hours if you ride “weekend pace.” Strange Brew offers a wonderfully technical descent. Furthermore, there’s enduro and DH nearby via a shuttle system that runs to the top of the mountains. “Big-suspension bikes are rolling off Moose Mountain,” Ellis says.

Ellis describes Cycle 22x as a wonderful little shop that serves the community. Of course, Calgary is home to more than 50 bike shops, as well. Rockies Tavern and Grill and The Powderhorn Saloon are recommended for post-ride brews and burgers. If you visit in September, you can catch the Mountain Film Festival. But whenever you visit, Ellis says, “You could ride a new trail every day and never hit the same trail in a week.”