Why Pro Mountain Bikers Choose Pemberton, BC
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From World Cup Racing to Pemberton's Mountain Biking Paradise
Meet Adrian Racing Roots to Pemberton's Trails
Recently, we sat down with Adrian, our operations and maintenance specialist, to discuss his journey from professional mountain biking in Mexico to finding his home in Pemberton’s thriving mountain bike community.
His unique perspective offers valuable insights for anyone looking to experience the exceptional mountain biking trails British Columbia has to offer.
How did your mountain biking journey begin?
“That was a funny story,” Adrian recalls with a smile.
“My good friend from elementary school who was also my neighbour, his dad raced cross country. I didn’t go for a casual ride first. I went to a few races, watched and figured out, yeah, this is what I want to do.”
Starting at just 11 years old, Adrian’s passion quickly evolved from riding borrowed bikes to competing at the national level. By age 20, he had become a national champion in Mexico, eventually competing on the World Cup circuit and consistently placing in the top third at prestigious Crankworx events.
What brought you to Pemberton specifically?
After initially coming to Whistler around 2012, Adrian found himself drawn to Pemberton’s unique combination of world-class trails and community atmosphere. He made the permanent move three years ago and hasn’t looked back.
“Per square kilometre, starting in the North Shore of Vancouver and up to Pemberton, there’s more trails here than in complete countries,” Adrian explains, highlighting one of the main reasons so many mountain bikers consider this region of British Columbia a bucket-list destination.
What makes mountain biking in Pemberton different from other destinations?
According to Adrian, it’s the incredible variety and proximity of the trails that sets Pemberton apart from other mountain biking destinations in BC.
“It’s not very far,” he notes, explaining how riders can easily adapt to seasonal conditions. “If I feel like training downhill in the middle of the winter, I can drive down to North Shore and there’s still a few spots that you can ride.”
This accessibility means visitors can experience diverse terrain without extensive travel. From technical descents to flowing cross-country routes, Pemberton offers trails suitable for riders of all levels within a compact geographic area.
How has the local mountain biking community influenced your experience?
“I’ve found a lot of really valuable people in the area,” Adrian shares. His involvement with the Pemberton Valley Trail Association (PVTA) reflects the community-centred approach that makes our mountain biking scene so special.
“The trail days is a great opportunity just to connect with people that are passionate about the same things you are,” he explains, highlighting how visitors can become part of the local riding culture, even during a short stay.
Pemberton Valley Lodge: The Ideal Basecamp for Riders
Adrian believes it’s our understanding of riders’ specific needs that makes the difference.
“We have the right facilities for people to stay with us and lock their bikes, wash their bikes, go and have dinner without having to be looking back at their bike rack or the nitty gritty of travelling with expensive mountain bikes.”
As both a staff member and an avid rider, Adrian has a unique perspective on what makes for a perfect mountain biking getaway. He notes that our location provides easy access to Pemberton’s extensive trail network while offering the amenities riders need after a day on the trails.
While Adrian continues to compete at the Masters level, achieving podium finishes at local and international events, he’s most enthusiastic about helping visitors discover what makes Pemberton’s mountain biking scene so special.
Experience Pemberton's Mountain Biking for Yourself
Whether you’re looking to test yourself on some of the best mountain biking trails British Columbia has to offer or simply enjoy the natural beauty of our region from a bike seat, Pemberton Valley Lodge provides the perfect home base for your adventure.
As Adrian’s journey demonstrates, there’s something special about our corner of BC that draws riders from around the world. From the extensive trail networks to the supportive local community, Pemberton offers an authentic mountain biking experience that keeps enthusiasts coming back season after season.
Pemberton Valley Lodge is proud to continue its support as a Corporate Sponsor and Trail Summit Member of the Pemberton Valley Trails Association (PVTA).
As a long-time advocate for sustainable recreation and the natural beauty of Pemberton, PVL’s partnership with PVTA reflects its commitment to enhancing local trail networks, promoting responsible tourism, and fostering a vibrant, active community.
Plan Your Visit
For riders visiting this mountain biking paradise, accommodation that understands and caters to their specific needs is essential. Pemberton Valley Lodge has positioned itself as the ideal base camp for mountain biking adventures, with facilities designed with riders in mind.
“The lodge is located in such a pristine destination for mountain biking, and we have the right facilities for people to stay with us and lock their bikes, wash their bikes, go and have dinner without having to be looking back at their bike rack,” Adrian explains.
Ready to experience some of the best mountain biking in British Columbia? Book your stay at Pemberton Valley Lodge and discover why riders like Adrian choose to call our trails home!
