THE CAVES:
The north island is remote, rugged, and full of natural wonders. The karst topography has created some spectacular world-renowned cave systems. While some are very difficult to access, ones with spectacular entrances have easier access for the general public to enjoy but don't be misled into thinking the ones on this route are easily paved roads and touristy parking lots.  NO.  These are tucked away down remote logging roads and more often than not, you will be the only one there.

THE COVES:
Boasting over 34,000km of coastline, Vancouver Island is well-known for Pacific Rim National Park, with its expansive sandy beaches, lush rain forests, and outstanding surfing. But the North Island has many remote coves and beaches that very few get to people see. The wildest of them all is only accessed by boats, kayaks, or major hikes, however, some are accessible by dirt roads. Such as San Josef Bay which is part of Cape Scott Provincial Park. Several other coves can be accessed at the dead-ends of remote logging roads. Unfortunately, these roads make it difficult to create a looping route. The Caves & Coves Tough Tour will take you to a few of these locations that are well worth your effort.

FORMAT & RULES:
• Complete mandatory "Selfies" along the way as proof you reached each location
• Earn up to 17 hrs of time credit by doing "extra" photo assignments.
• Submit your photos for verification. (FKT records require rider GPS tracks)
• Standard "bikepacking race rules" (along with the following exception)
• Riding with a friend is permitted, but you must be together in all photos.
• TrackLeaders registration recommended for tracking/timing ($25 USD)
• Your finishing date/time will be recorded forever on the internet. 

UNDERSTAND THE RISKS:
The Caves & Coves Tough Tour not a sanctioned race/event, but an informal grassroots gathering of like-minded cyclists enjoying the same route at the same time against the clock. No registration fee, no prizes, just bragging rights that you finished. Cyclists who ride this route must fully understand there is no support in any way. Riders must be completely, 100%, self-sufficient in every way, and fully understand the risks involved and their safety is completely their own responsibility. The registration process is to provide extra information and recourses for this adventure and outline some unique rules that have been added to make the route even more fun for everyone involved. Registration is not a requirement. You may use the route information as you wish, as these are all public roads and spaces found online. 

THE REMOTENESS (a cautionary word):
As we venture out to seek out spectacular places in the middle of the wilderness, we do so knowing the risks. We can be rewarded by watching eagles soaring but can also startle predatory wildlife such as bears, cougars, deer, and elk with our silently moving bicycles.  Or we can be caught off guard by a loaded logging truck coming around a corner.  Let's not fool ourselves, wilderness bikepacking adventures come with their dangers.  Never let your guard down. By embarking on this route, in whole or in part, you assume all the risks associated with this.

THE RIGHT BIKE?
This route has its challenges, from steep hills to rough rocky descents (and a few sections of mild singletrack).  It can be riden on any modern gravel bike, but a hardtail MTB with front suspension would be ideal for comfort on the rough sections.   TIRES?  Gravel tires 42mm or larger is recommended.  

LOGISTICS: DRIVING or FLYING?
Logistics are always an issue when riding in an unfamiliar location, or if you are a worldly traveler flying in from abroad.

DRIVING? If you have a local connection where you can leave your vehicle, this would be best. However, you can pay for long-term parking at the Comox Airport next to the start. They have a paved lot at $98/wk or gravel for $70/wk payable online. Full information is HERE.

FLYING? Comox Airport (YQQ) has scheduled flights to/from Vancouver (YVR), Victoria (YYJ), Calgary (YYC), and Edmonton (YEG). However, there are a number of international flights that land in Comox as the airport also services Canadian Forces Base Comox (home of 19 Wing Comox). You will be responsible for finding somewhere to store your bike box. However, you can reach out to local bike shops or ride@cavesandcoves.com to help you find a solution. 

CAN'T DO THE ENTIRE ROUTE?
Feel free to take the route and create your own adventure that fits your schedule or abilities. We can help if you have questions. While it's not considered an official finish, you will be rewarded with the beauty of North Vancouver Island.

DOWNLOADS:
Full Route Guide (click here)
Detailed Photo Checklist (click here)
Upana Caves Map (click here)
Ronning's Garden Map (click here)

FULL ROUTE: (RWGPS) 
Section 1: (RWGPS)
Section 2: (RWGPS) 
Section 3: (RWGPS) 
Section 4: (RWGPS) 
Section 5: (RWGPS)

DISCLAIMER

The information presented here is only a planning resource. It is the rider’s responsibility to All efforts have been made to ensure GPS tracks are accurate and up to date, however, they can not be guaranteed. Salty Beard Bikepacking, its creator, and contributors are in no way liable for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other such situation that might happen to individual riders cycling by following this route. It is the responsibility of each cyclist to ensure they have done all their research and planning required to embark on such a challenging route in remote locations. Medical help is far away and we strongly suggest the use of a personal emergency beacon. In some areas, passing vehicle traffic will be very scarce. Campbell River is your last stop for any serious bike shop. Ensure your bike is in top working condition and know how to fix minor repairs. Please follow the rules of the road, ride sensibly, and yield to industrial traffic, this is their workplace. Enquire locally if you are unsure about seasonal fire bans. RESPECT THE LAND & LEAVE NO TRACE.