Biking is one of the fastest growing sports, thriving for its ability to encourage outdoor community, exercise, and fun. In 2021, Vernon was the 11th most ridden city in Canada, and 23rd in the world. Additionally, the North Okanagan Cycling Society grew 500 members last year alone. Our biking community would love to see more facilities dedicated to biking in our downtown area, and when polling our youth, dirt jumps were the number 1 request.

Examples of success in similar city-run endeavours are the Kamloops Bike Ranch, Langford's Jordie Lunn Bike Park and Nanaimo's Stevie Smith Memorial Park – places where riders of all ages can go to spend time and grow with friends.

Our idea is to have a similar location in Vernon, that will include a progressive set of dirt jumps for all ages, with considerations for a paved pump track and a covered skills area. Professional input will allow for jumps that are built with safety in mind, encouraging local youth to spend time here instead of building their own. These recreational facilities would also accommodate other sports.

Having this bike playground in town will allow for greater accessibility for all youth, and give them a healthy environment to spend their free time and develop their bike skills over a longer season. Please sign to show your support for local biking facilities in Vernon.