Local rider showcases adaptive bikes and accessibility

The Pass is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and challenging mountain bike trails. With its stunning vistas and diverse terrain, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. But how accessible is mountain biking in this rugged region? Through the lens of adaptive biking and the dedicated efforts of trail builders, the Crowsnest Pass is increasingly becoming a more inclusive destination for all riders.

For Chelsea Ogilvie, the journey into adaptive mountain biking began with a desire to leave the pavement behind. 

“I really wanted a way to get off the pavement,” she shared, “Wheelchairs don’t do well off-road, and just like so many able-bodied people, I love being out in nature. The bike gives me the freedom to get to places my wheelchair could never go. Plus, it’s tons of fun.”

Ogilvie’s Bowhead Reach adaptive bike has transformed her outdoor experiences. 

“My Bowhead Reach has been a game changer. Not only does it allow me to hit up my local bike parks, but I can also hop on it to take my dog to her favorite off-leash park, get down to the lake at my family cabin, or join my partner on his trail runs. It is so versatile,” said Ogilvie.

Despite the benefits, adaptive mountain biking comes with its own set of challenges. Ogilvie emphasized the need for proper trail information and clear signage to ensure safety. 

“Adaptive mountain bikes are a mobility device as much as they are a bike. Even though they may look more like a weird motorcycle than a traditional two-wheeled pedal bike, they have the same rights to be on trails as any other bike,” said Ogilvie.

The cost of adaptive bikes is another significant hurdle. 

“Oof. It is not affordable. Adaptive equipment is so much more expensive than its traditional counterpart. Even an entry-level aMTB (Adaptive Mountain Bike) is going to cost upwards of $15,000,” explained Ogilvie.

Despite these challenges, Chelsea remains optimistic and hopeful for the future.

“Adaptive trail standards exist, but they can be used as a guide more than a rule. Many people fall into the trap of thinking double-wide green flow are the only adaptive trails out there, but the bikes can handle more than that,” she said.

The United Riders of Crowsnest (UROC) have been instrumental in making the trails of Crowsnest Pass more accessible. Wendy Macuick, a member of UROC, highlighted their ongoing efforts. 

“We (UROC and its trail building crew and volunteers) have been working on bike trails for many years. The first trails were hand built mostly through volunteer hours, but now we have been utilizing small excavating machinery to help speed up the process. A result of accommodating the machines which means the trails are wider allows adaptive bikes to use these trails. Win, win,” said Macuick.

The community’s commitment to inclusivity is clear in their trail designs. Macuick mentioned the contributions of Martin Devlieger, a dedicated volunteer with cystic fibrosis who uses an e-bike. 

“He runs the excavator and is incredibly hard working and passionate about building trails here. He did the base work on Boulder Dash and the new climb trail on PPK (Pass Powderkeg) and the UROC trail crew completed them by hand.”

UROC’s vision extends beyond trail building. They organize events like enduro races and poker rallies that cater to all ages and skill levels, promoting a sense of community and shared passion for mountain biking. Additionally, Pass Powderkeg ski hill has collaborated with Alpenland to open the lodge on weekends, offering food services, mechanical assistance, and bike rentals to encourage more people to ride.

Macuick stressed the importance of community involvement in maintaining and enhancing the trails. 

“The biggest improvement our community can make is to just come out and enjoy our mountain bike trails and realize how amazing our community is. Anyone can ride here. We have bikes available to rent or buy. There is instruction available from Sweet Riders who does many levels of coaching. Most locals are very approachable and happy to talk about the trails here,” added Macuick.

Meeting riders like Ogilvie has been eye-opening for Macuick and the UROC team. 

“This was my first opportunity to meet Chelsea... Prior to her, I had only had the pleasure of riding with a few friends who use e-bikes because of respiratory problems.”

Trail safety is a priority for UROC, and they have incorporated features to cater to different skill levels. 

“In terms of safety, the trail builders have included options to ‘ride around’ features such as rocks, jumps, or gaps which more advanced cyclists enjoy. That has always been incorporated into the trail building here. This allows riders of different levels to ride together on the same trail,” said Macuick.

The future of mountain biking in Crowsnest Pass looks promising, with ongoing efforts to make the trails more inclusive and accessible. The combined passion of adaptive riders like Ogilvie and the dedication of trail builders like Macuick is transforming this mountainous region into a place where everyone, regardless of their physical abilities, can experience the thrill and joy of mountain biking. 

“The more people we can attract to recreate in the Crowsnest Pass, the more it will benefit all the community. We have the resources to make recreation an industry that can make us prosper,” said Macuick.