2026 Event - Texada!
In August 2026, we hosted our third annual Slow Coast qathet group bikepacking trip, returning to Texada Island to ride the Texada Ridge Runner route. 62 riders from qathet and across BC (and some from the US!) joined us for a weekend bikepacking trip filled with connection, art projects, donuts, zines, and some of the best gravel roads in qathet.
Thanks to the attendees’ support and dedication to learning, listening, and donating back, we raised over $3,000, which was shared among the QRCA, Tla’amin Guardian Watchman Program, and the Texada Agriculture Group. Find more resources and information about these groups below.
Priority Registration for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and women
Our demographics for this event were approximately 60% women and 25% LGBTQ+
We are always trying to make our registration process better. If you have any feedback, please reach out!
Returning to Our Roots
For our third year, we decided to head back to the place that started it all for us - Texada Island! It’s truly our favourite gulf island, and in our opinion, the best gravel in qathet.
Project Highlights
25% of Registration Fees Donated Back to Local Advocacy Groups.
We raised over $3000 that was shared amongst the Qathet Regional Cycling Association (QRCA), Tla’amin Guardian Watchmen Program, and the Texada Agriculture Group (TAG)
Education Piece
We were excited get a tour of the the Texada Food Hub (TAG) in Van Anda and learn about their commercial food kitchen, workshops, and new freeze dryers!
We also were excited to share our Texada Ridge Runner Zines, designed by Jessica Brousseau of Feast Studios. These zines feature the route itself, but also information and resources on the land we are riding on, flora and fauna of Texada, and other reflection prompts. Thanks to Sunshine Coast Tourism for helping making the zines possible!
Art Integration
Friend and artist, Aubree Mcatee, created the cutest “Slow Coasters” kit, inviting folks to sew and design their own drink coasters. Aubree even packed a sewing machine for camp to help with this project!
Community Building
Moving a bit slower allowed us to connect, meet new folks, and enjoy the moments in between. We even had some time to pop into the Texada Farmers Market on Sunday afternoon, which was a true highlight for many on this trip
2026 Event Partners
This event was made possible by the outpouring of support from so many amazing brands and people. Thank you!
FAQs
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We are thrilled to be returning to Texada Island this year! From the beginning, we agreed that heading back to Texada every other year or so is our goal - so here we go!
This is a non-competitive group bikepacking trip starting and ending in qathet. This is an "Intermediate" ride with 1 night of camping, and a social the night before. The route is about 90km long over two days.
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This event is for 19+ individuals.
This year, we are also reserving 20 of 60 spots for qathet locals.
You do not have to be a seasoned bikepacker by any means, but being comfortable on the bike for a longer day, and with a lot of climbing, will make the trip more enjoyable.
We have 1 sponsored spot for an Indigenous rider, thanks to the folks at 32 Lakes Cafe & Bakery, as well as 3-4 reduced-rate spots. Stay tuned on more info on this!
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UPDATE: FULL
We do have a waitlist, but we have temporarily closed that. Thanks for understanding!
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We support people getting on bikes in all capacities. However, here is the reality of this trip:
We will be biking roughly 90 kms over 2 days, with over 5000 ft of climbing. Day 1 has a lot of climbing up to Bob’s Lake! Expect long days (but supportive and fun!) on the bike.
You will be expected to carry all of your gear.
You don't have to be a bikepacking expert by any means, but you should be comfortable on your bike and riding with your gear.
We described the route as “Intermediate” in terms of terrain, resupply points, and elevation.
At this time, we cannot support e- bikes on this trip due to the complexity of repairs, group cohesion, and the unreliability of recharge points (no power at camp!). Thanks for understanding!
If you have any questions about whether this trip is right for you, please reach out before registering.
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We will be flowing a modified version of the Texada Ridge Runner Route from bikepacking.com. We will not be biking down to Anderson Bay, unless you want a wild sidequest!
Friendly reminder: this is a non-competitive cycling event. If your aim is to set a record on this route, this weekend is probably not for you.
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The fee for the weekend is $200. This includes:
A feel-good moment that 25% of your registration fee is being directly donated to local advocacy and conservation groups in qathet. This is the heart of our event, and we are so excited about this!
Your ferry ride to and back from Texada
Dinner and drinks at camp on Saturday night
Art workshop/activity (TBA!)
Slow Coast merch (really excited about the take-home this year!)
A chance to win some great prizes
A chance to connect with others in a fun and non-competitive space
A fun overall weekend!
We have reserved a few spots at a reduced rate (50% off) to hopefully make our event more financially accessible. If this would be helpful to you, please fill out this short form.
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The route is primarily gravel roads, with some pavement mixed in. A gravel or rigid mountain bike is perfect for the route. Roads are smooth and well-maintained, but expect to be climbing a lot on Day 1. Low climbing gears and ~2" tires may make the ride more comfortable.
At this time, we cannot support e- bikes on this trip due to the complexity of repairs, group cohesion, and the unreliability of recharge points. Thanks for understanding!
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Yes! There are spots to filter water along the route, as well as a stream at the camp spot.
Please bring riding snacks for both days, lunch for Saturday and Sunday, and breakfast for Sunday. Dinner is provided at camp on Saturday. There are a few potential corner stores to resupply during our ride (especially mid-day on Sunday.
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25% of your attendee fee is the mandatory donation.
This year, we are donating over $3000 to be split between the following groups and organizations doing important advocacy, community, and conservation work in the qathet region: Tla’amin Guardian Watchman Program, Texada Agriculture Group (TAG), and the Qathet Regional Cycling Association (QRCA).
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A partial refund of 75% of the registration cost will be given for cancellations that occur before May 1, 2026. A partial refund of 50% of the registration cost will be given for cancellations that occur before July 1, 2026. No refunds will be offered after August 1, 2026.
