Elbow Valley Cycle Club upcoming events

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, June 16, 2026)

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding.

Distance: 50 km

Pace (2-3 groups):

Advanced group(s) - 25-27+ kph average speed

Advanced+ group - 28-30+ kph average speed (may be self-guided)

For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding. Ride at your own pace on hill segments, regroup after each climb.

Elevation Gain: 500 m

It's time again for COP switchbacks! One of my favourite routes!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome. There will be good company and a social atmosphere. If you are unsure about the speed, pacelining format, and difficulty level of the ride, please contact the coordinator in advance.

Up the Elbow Forget Me Not Pond, Adv, 60km, 835m, PattyWest (Wednesday, June 17, 2026)

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Patty West

Ride level: Advanced

Distance: 60 km (intermediate)

Elevation: 835 m, advanced (steep grades)

Pace: 25 km/h (on the flats of course, speed may be greater on the descents if you dare and naturally slower on the climbs)

E-Bikes allowed: no

Details:

We are as ready as we ever will be this time of year for the classic ride up the Elbow River on Highway 66 to Forget Me Not Pond.

This version ride starts at Bragg Creek Provincial Park (NOT the community centre in Bragg Creek), heads up Route 66 to Forget-me-not Pond.

Limited stops, no sweep - we will regroup at key milestones (Summit). We will stop at the Forget-me-Not Pond day use area to soak in the scenery of the pond and to enjoy our packed lunches.

At Bragg Creek Prov Park there are parking spots, washrooms, grass and picnic tables here for our enjoyment and relaxation after the ride. We will have a tailgate party afterwards. Bring a lawn chair and refreshment!

Safety:

The road is open to traffic but on a Wednesday it will be relatively light.

Be prepared for self-support. Bring a pump, patch kit, tools, spare tubes, etc.

The weather at Forget-Me-Not Pond is often cooler and the descents are long. Bring sufficient clothing. Layers are best including wind/rain jacket.

Steep descents. Watch for gravel on the shoulders. You may use the lane where the road is closed to traffic.

There are several cattle guards to ride over. They do have a strip to stay on to make it easier crossing them.

Evening Unwind to Cochrane, Adv, 50km, 388m, TanyaColwell (Thursday, June 18, 2026)

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Tanya Colwell

Distance: 50 km

Type: Training

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace: 25-30 kph average speed

Elevation Gain: 388 m

Description:

Thursday evening training rides are back! Join us each week for a focused ride out to Cochrane and back, typically 50–60 km, with some variation in routes to keep things interesting.

These are structured, faster-paced rides intended for building fitness and group riding skills.

If needed, we’ll split into two groups:

Advanced

Advanced+

Parking:
Meet at the Shane Homes YMCA in Rocky Ridge. We'll gather in the northwest corner of the parking lot 15 minutes before the ride starts.

Weather:

This ride will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.

*

Tour de Banff The Whole Enchilada, Adv, 100 km, 1000m, PattyWest (Saturday, June 20, 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Patty West

Distance: 100 km

Pace: 25-27 kph

Elevation Gain: 1,000 m

E-bikes: No

Parking: Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Centre

It's everything Banff has to offer a cyclist, for those who love beautiful scenery and lots of hills.

This route includes Canmore to Banff on the Legacy Trail, Lake Minnewanka, Johnson Lake, Mount Norquay, Banff for Coffee, the golf course loop, Bow Falls, Tunnel Mountain and return on the Legacy Trail to Canmore.

Bring your camera because we will stop at some of the best viewpoints.

AND, wait there's more! We will have a mid-way refreshment at the Wild Flour Bakery in Banff. https://www.wildflourbakery.ca

Banff to Lake Lousie ski area, 117km, Int/Adv, RonanCulligan (Saturday, June 20, 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Ronan Culligan

Level Ride: Intermediate/Advanced

Distance: 117km

Elevation gain: 950m

Pace: 25-30km/hr

E-bikes: No e-bikes

Parking: Fenlands Recreation Center
Address: 100 Mt Norquay Rd #2F, Banff, AB T1L 1C3

PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE A VALID PARK PASS

Starting at the Fenlands recreation center in Banff, we will get moving at 9am sharp. Bring snacks, fluids, repair kits.

We will stop for a quick regroup at Castle Junction on the way out and on the way back. We will stop for lunch at the Lake Louise ski hill. One of the restaurants should be open. I will confirm with them a couple of days in advance. If they are not, we will go to the village instead.

We will split into different groups to accommodate everyone's pace levels.

Please enjoy this AI generated description of the route.

Cycling from the Fenlands Recreation Centre in Banff to Lake Louise is one of the most iconic, scenic, and rewarding road-biking routes in North America. You will be trading the bustling townsite for a deep dive into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, riding nearly parallel to the massive peaks of the Bow Valley.

The route is roughly 60 to 65 kilometers (37 to 40 miles) one way, featuring a steady, rolling net incline.

️ The Route Breakdown

1. The Warm-Up: Vermilion Lakes Drive

· Distance: ~4.5 km

· The Vibe: Flat, peaceful, and stunning.

· Leaving the Fenlands Recreation Centre parking lot, you will immediately hop onto the paved connector path to Vermilion Lakes Drive. This quiet, low-speed road edges three beautiful lakes, offering postcard-perfect views of Mount Rundle reflecting on the water. It is the perfect, gentle warm-up for your legs.

2. The Connector: Legacy Trail to the 1A

· Distance: ~1.5 km

· At the end of Vermilion Lakes Drive, the road ends, and you will transition onto a short, paved section of the Banff Legacy Trail. This quickly guides you safely across the Trans-Canada Highway interchange and drops you right at the eastern gateway (Fireside Day Use area) of Highway 1A, also known as the Bow Valley Parkway.

3. The Main Event: The Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A)

· Distance: ~50 km

· The Vibe: Rolling hills, thick pine forests, and dramatic mountain vistas.

· Once you hit the Parkway, the real journey begins. The road is heavily forested, beautifully paved, and snakes alongside the Bow River and the Canadian Pacific railway tracks.

· The Terrain: It is not one massive mountain climb; instead, it consists of continuous rolling hills. You will experience short, punchy climbs followed by sweeping descents. The net elevation gain from Banff to Lake Louise Village is about 300 meters (1,000 feet), meaning you will be working a bit harder on the way out than on the way back.

· Key Landmarks: You will pass Johnston Canyon (km 17), a great spot to use the restroom or grab a snack. Further along, you'll ride right past the jaw-dropping, fortress-like cliffs of Castle Mountain (km 30), and the historical Baker Creek (km 45).

4. The Final Stretch: Lake Louise Village to the Lake

· Distance: ~4 km

· The Vibe: The ultimate test of your quad strength.

· The Bow Valley Parkway ends at Great Divide Lodge/Route 1. You will cross over the highway into Lake Louise Village (a great place to stop for a pastry at the bakery).

· If your final goal is the actual shores of Lake Louise (and the Fairmont Chateau), you have one last hurdle: Lake Louise Drive. This final 4 km stretch climbs steeply out of the village, packing about 200 meters of elevation gain into a short distance. It will burn, but watching the turquoise water appear makes every pedal stroke worth it.

Tuesday Tuneup Solstice Ride, Adv, 65km, 600m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, June 23, 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Ride level: Advanced and Advanced+

Distance: 65 km

Pace:

Advanced group ~27 kph

Advanced+ group 28-30 kph

Format: Group riding in paceline, staying together on flatter sections; ride at your own pace on hill climbs, regrouping at the top. Advanced+ group may be self-guided so be sure to have the map on your bike computer.

Elevation Gain: 600 m

Summer solstice this week (June 21)! Sun doesn't set until 10 p.m.! Let's make the most of it with an extended ride in Springbank.

As usual, there will be a couple of hills -- Escarpment, Emerald Bay, Springbank Heights, and Springbank Road.

Sunset social! Bring your lawn chair, blanket, and munchies for a tailgate social. While in days gone by you may have partied til the sun came up... this time we will party til the sun goes down! :)

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome. There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

Grand Valley Horse Creek Bottrel Store Loop, 89km, Adv, PattyWest (Wednesday, June 24, 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Patty West

Distance:  89 km

Pace:  25 km+/hr

Elevation Gain:  486 m

E-Bikes allowed: N

Description:

A 88km ride NW of Cochrane. Head out on Grand Valley Rd to the end. Turnaround and head back along Grand Valley Rd to Horse Creek Rd. We will go north to the hamlet of Bottrel. The General Store there is a must see and offers a great selection of snacks and treats to refuel to get you back along Horse Creek Rd to the car park.
Our starting point is at Midford Pond and then once through the residential area, we will ride about 4.5km on Highway 1A which can be busy. Single file is a must. Grand Valley & Horse Creek are nice quiet roads.

We will re-group after Hwy 1A and turning onto Grand Valley Rd, again at the jcn of Twp280 & GV road, GV road and HC road and Bottrel. Then it is a straight go along HC road for the car park.

Evening Unwind Variation to Cochrane, Adv, 58km, 648m, TanyaColwell (Thursday, June 25, 2026)

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Tanya Colwell

Level Ride: Advanced/Advanced+

Type: Training

Distance: 58 km

Elevation gain: 648 m

Pace: 25 - 30 kph

e-Bikes: No

This week bring your climbing leg or at least a convincing attitude. Newcomers are always welcome, provided you’re comfortable holding the group pace and riding safely in a group setting.

If needed, we’ll split into two groups:

Advanced
Advanced+ (for riders who think headwinds are “good resistance training”)

As always, ride smooth, predictable, and safe. Strong legs are great, strong bike handling is better.

Safety reminder:
When regrouping, please move completely off to the side of the road and keep intersections and traffic lanes clear. Riding two-abreast is fine when conditions allow, but avoid drifting into the middle of the roadway like you own the Tour caravan.

Weather:
This ride will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather, lightning, hail, or any conditions that make carbon bikes nervous.

Parking / Meeting Point:
We’ll meet at the Shane Homes YMCA in Rocky Ridge, gathering in the northwest corner of the parking lot.

Please arrive 15 minutes before the ride start time so we can roll out on time and finish debating tire pressure before sunset.

Madden Cremona WaterValley Loop, Adv, 114km, 1200m, PattyWest (Saturday, June 27, 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Patty West
Distance: 114 km

Pace: 25-28 kph

Elevation Gain: 1,200m

E-Bikes allowed: No

Meeting place/parking: All road rides start/finish at Madden Community Centre. Plenty of parking.

*this is not the golf course parking lot*

Route:

Join us for an unforgettable Imperial Century starting at the hamlet of Madden, just north of Calgary. Our journey begins with a northeast ride towards Carstairs but not to town. From there, we continue west & south through the rolling countryside towards Cremona and a chance to refuel at the country store. We then ride west & south to Water Valley where we can grab a quick snack before the home stretch to Madden. If time permits stay and have a bevy at the Madden Golf Course Patio. An epic day on the bike!

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50875904

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, June 30, 2026)

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding.

Distance: 50 km

Pace (2-3 groups):

Advanced group(s) - 25-27+ kph average speed

Advanced+ group - 28-30+ kph average speed (may be self-guided)

For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding. Ride at your own pace on hill segments, regroup after each climb.

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Today's hills: Emerald Bay, Springbank Heights, and Old Banff Coach Road, bottom to top.

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome. There will be good company and a social atmosphere. If you are unsure about the speed, pacelining format, and difficulty level of the ride, please contact the coordinator in advance.

Canmore to Lake Louise, Adv, 160km, 1599m, PattyWest (Wednesday, July 01, 2026)

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

CANADA DAY RIDE

ROAD RIDE: Advanced (distance + hills + pace)

Coordinator: Patty West

Distance: 162 km Pace: 25kph+
Elevation Gain: 1599m
Ride format: No sweep, limited stops

Parking and meeting spot: Canmore Visitor's Centre, 2801 Bow Valley Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 3A2

Arrive for 8:00am

Pre-ride info at 8:15am
Wheels rolling at 8:30am

Fuel stops
1) At 53km - regroup and a short snack/water refill stop at Castle Junction
2) At 80km - Lunch at Lake Louise Ski Resort
3) At 107km - another regroup and a short stop at Castle Junction

Description:

Cycle from Canmore Visitor's Centre on Legacy Trail, enjoy Bow Valley Parkway, continue to Lake Louise Ski Resort, and return the same way. Apres-ride tail gate back at Canmore visitor's centre. Bring a celebratory beverage of choice and camping chair so you can rest your weary legs.

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, July 07, 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, July 07, 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding.

Distance: 50 km

Pace (2-3 groups):

Advanced group(s) - 25-27+ kph average speed

Advanced+ group - 28-30+ kph average speed (may be self-guided)

For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding. Ride at your own pace on hill segments, regroup after each climb.

Elevation Gain: 500 m
In honour of the Calgary Stampede, this route includes Lariat Loop, Rodeo Ridge, and Calling Horse Estates. And, the map includes three lassos. Yah Hoo!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome. There will be good company and a social atmosphere. If you are unsure about the speed, pacelining format, and difficulty level of the ride, please contact the coordinator in advance.

Tour of the Foothills, 129km, Int/Adv, RonanCulligan (Saturday, July 11, 2026)

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Ronan Culligan

Level Ride: Intermediate/Advanced

Distance: 129km

Elevation gain: 1257m

Pace: 25-30km/hr

E-bikes: No e-bikes

Starting at the Bragg Creek community center, we will get moving at 9am sharp. Bring snacks, fluids, repair kits.

We will stop for a regroup and snack break in both Turner Valley and in Priddis. We will split into different groups to accommodate everyone's pace levels.

PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE ROUTE MAP TO YOU BIKE COMPUTERS

Thank you gemini for this description of the route.

This is an absolutely classic, incredibly scenic, and physically demanding road cycling loop through the rolling foothills of Southern Alberta. It offers a fantastic mix of punchy climbs, sweeping descents, and postcard-perfect views of the Rocky Mountain front range.

The entire loop spans roughly 70 to 75 kilometers with a significant amount of rolling elevation gain. Here is a breakdown of what to expect stage-by-stage:

Stage 1: Bragg Creek to Diamond Valley via Highway 762

Distance: ~32 km
Terrain: Rollercoaster hills, excellent pavement, minimal shoulder.

Setting out south from the hamlet of Bragg Creek, you immediately hit Highway 762. This section is famous among local cyclists for its "rollercoaster" topography. The road has excellent, smooth pavement, but it features very little shoulder, so riding single-file and using high-visibility gear is highly recommended.

You will grind up several punchy, short climbs and get rewarded with sweeping, high-speed descents. To your right (west), you'll get stunning, unobstructed views of the jagged Rockies over rolling ranch lands. Highway 762 eventually dead-ends into Highway 549. You’ll hang a left (east) onto 549, and then quickly hook onto Highway 22 South to coast right into Diamond Valley (formerly Turner Valley/Black Diamond).

☕ Pit Stop Note: Diamond Valley is the perfect halfway mark to top up your water bottles, grab a pastry at the local bakery, or hit a coffee shop before starting the northward leg.

Stage 2: Diamond Valley North to Priddis via 176 Street (and Highway 22)

Distance: ~25 km
Terrain: Flat-to-rolling agricultural valleys, transitioning to tree-lined hills.

Leaving Diamond Valley, you will head north. While you can take the busier Highway 22, routing onto 176 Street W (which runs parallel just to the east or weaves through the local grid) offers a much quieter, more serene rural experience.

As you head north toward the hamlet of Priddis, the wide-open ranch vistas of the south begin to transition into the denser, tree-lined foothills of the Elbow Valley. The grades here are generally gentler than the dramatic rollers of Highway 762, allowing you to settle into a steady, rhythmic cadence. You will eventually pass near the Priddis Greens area as you approach the intersection with Plummers Road.

Stage 3: The Return via Plummers Road to Highway 762

Distance: ~15–18 km
Terrain: Heavy climbing, quiet backroads, technical descent.

Turning west onto Plummers Road signals the start of the toughest leg of the journey. Plummers Road is a gorgeous, quiet, but notoriously challenging stretch of tarmac.

The Grind: You will be riding straight back toward the mountains, meaning you are trending strictly uphill. You'll pass the boundary of Brown-Lowery Provincial Park, a heavily forested area where the road snakes through tight, steep climbs.
The Payoff: Once you summit the highest points of Plummers Road, you are treated to deep-woods scenery and massive, sudden reveals of the mountain skyline.

Plummers Road eventually terminates right back at Highway 762. You will turn right (north) onto 762 for the final stretch. Luckily, the momentum is mostly on your side here; you'll enjoy a predominantly downhill, fast, and winding descent right back into the flats of the Bragg Creek provincial land, finishing up exactly where you started.

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding.

Distance: 50 km

Pace (2-3 groups):

Advanced group(s) - 25-27+ kph average speed

Advanced+ group - 28-30+ kph average speed (may be self-guided)

For advanced/experienced road riders, must be comfortable with paceline riding. Ride at your own pace on hill segments, regroup after each climb.

Elevation Gain: 400 m
Not as hilly this week... The route includes the fun bike path around Harmony Golf Course. It is usually quiet in the evenings, however please watch out for walkers and dogs and be courteous to other trail users.

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome. There will be good company and a social atmosphere. If you are unsure about the speed, pacelining format, and difficulty level of the ride, please contact the coordinator in advance.

Drumheller Multi Day Loop 160km, Helen Hayes (Friday, July 17, 2026)

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Three days of cycling in the Badlands with the option of attending The Passion Play at Canada's largest outdoor stage.

Camping, RV or cabins at the River Grove Campground in Drumheller near the big Dinosaur.

An area in the campgounds for tents has been blocked. There are options for tents, cabins and RVs. Call to make your own reservation for July 17 and 18th. 1-403-814-9946.

Options to ride the complete distance or shorten each day.

Friday arrive and set up camp. Ride to Wayne and back, evening group meal in the campground.

Saturday - Ride east to the ghost town of Dorothy with stops at East Coulee and the Atlas Coal Mine. Tour around Dorothy, lunch then challenge the last hill. Return to Drumheller with a stop at the Rosedale suspension bridge and Refreshments at Roadhouse Biker Bar. 7 km back to Drumheller along the paved pathway.

Shorter RIde:

Ride to East Coulee (22 km) or the Atlas Mine, (24km) with stops at the Rosedale Suspension Bridge & Roadhouse Biker Bar.

Option to attend The Passion Play at the outdoor Ampitheater, Canada's largest outdoor stage. There are 15 seats reserved for us in a block with a 15% group discount. Deposit is $15 to hold your seat. The balance of around $70 will be due on June 15th. NOTE: The ampitheater is a few kilometers out of Drumheller and we will need to carpool and buy parking passes for around $8 per vehicle.

Sunday - ride west past the Horsethief Canyon (18km) lookout then continue down to the Bleriot ferry and up the other side returning to Drumheller on the south side of the Red Deer Riiver on South Dinosaur Trail.

For a shorter ride, participants can ride out to Horsethief Canyon, stop at the little church or go to the Tyrell Museum and back to Drumheller.

Canola Fields Fondo 2026 (Saturday, July 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 06:00:00 GMT

Canola Fields Fondo

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, July 18, 2026

Ride and Social

Enjoy the vast golden canola fields of rural Alberta with our annual fondo and apres-ride social.

All rides start/end at the Madden Community Centre and tour the small towns North and West of Madden, including Carstairs, Cremona, Water Valley and Dogpound to name a few.

The event will include multiple road rides of various distances, levels and speeds -- from a 35 km loop to 100 km+ century rides.

Don't miss the apres-ride social!

Join us after the ride for our popular social at the Madden Golf Club patio. Bring your own or purchase refreshments and snacks at the Club House.

Pincher Creek Multi Day Event, Int, 250km, 900m, VicUrban,SalFaoro (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 17:00:00 GMT

ROAD RIDE - LEVEL (Intermediate/Advanced)

Coordinators: Sal & Vic

Distance: 250 kms (approx 80 Km per day)

Pace: About 23 kph (depends on wind)

Elevation Gain: Less than 1000 M each day

This is a multi-day event starting Tuesday. We have booked campsites at Cottonwood Provincial Park and there are motels to overnight in Pincher Creek. Please make your own accommodation arrangements. If camping, the sites can be booked up to 3 months in advance it is a very nice campground as there is the river and the reservoir to cool down in after rides and showers are available at the Castleview Provincial Campground on the hill above Cottonwood. The rides will be different every day. The first day has us riding around the reservoir from the campground on Tuesday starting at ~2 PM. This a a great ride of about 60 Km, minimal traffic, rolling terrain and great views of the mountains and plains. The following days have options such as Twin Butte/Waterton, Lee Lake to Beaver Mines/Castle Mtn. Keep your fingers crossed for co-operative weather.

We will meet at Cottonwood PP our sites are B-45 & B-47. There is visitor parking at the entrance to the campground. Meals are loosely organized and usually done informally, based on interest levels.

Here is one of the maps:

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, July 28, 2026)

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, August 04, 2026)

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, August 11, 2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, August 18, 2026)

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, August 25, 2026)

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, September 01, 2026)

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, September 08, 2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***

Northstar Rail Trail, Easy, 45Km, 400m, LyleOpseth (Friday, September 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Lyle Opseth

Ride level: easy

Distance: 45 km

Pace: 18-21 km/h

Elevation Gain: 400m

Choose the ride option with the distance and pace you prefer. This is the easy ride.

Join us to cycle the Northstar Rail Trail pathway between Cranbrook and Marysville. This ride explores the historic Northstar Rail Trail at a relaxed pace, suitable for those cyclists participating in the Kootenays Fondo the next day. The trail is noted for gentle grades.

This shorter ride turns around at Marysville with a stop at the Timber Hitch Coffee Shop. You can also check out Marysville Falls a few blocks further down the road.

This ride starts at Moir Park and follows the paved pathway on the old railway right of way before returning the same way. If you decide to shorten the ride, please inform your coordinator. (We get it! There's a fondo tomorrow.)

Parking at Moir Park:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8jScUCBUxqfnz6S8A

Northstar Rail Trail, Int, 45Km, 400m, HeatherOpseth (Friday, September 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Ride level: intermediate

Distance: 45 km

Pace: 23-25 km/h

Elevation Gain: 400m

Choose the ride option with the distance and pace you prefer. This is the intermediate ride.

Join us to cycle the Northstar Rail Trail pathway between Cranbrook and Marysville. This ride explores the historic Northstar Rail Trail, suitable for those cyclists participating in the Kootenays Fondo the next day. The trail is noted for gentle grades.

This shorter ride turns around at Marysville with a stop at the Timber Hitch Coffee Shop. You can also check out Marysville Falls just a few more blocks down the road.

Parking at Moir Park:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8jScUCBUxqfnz6S8A

Northstar Rail Trail, Adv, 55Km, 500m, BobWestlake (Friday, September 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Bob Westlake

Ride level: advanced

Distance: 55 km

Pace: 23+ km/h

Elevation Gain: 500m

Choose the ride option with the distance and pace you prefer. This is the advanced ride.

Join us to cycle the Northstar Rail Trail pathway between Cranbrook and Kimberley. This ride explores the historic rail trail between Cranbrook and Kimberley.

This ride starts at Moir Park and follows the paved pathway on the old railway right of way before returning the same way.

We will be enjoying coffee and lunch in Kimberley. Or you can turn around at Rotary Park in Kimberley, shown on the map.

If you decide to shorten the ride, please inform your coordinator. (We get it! There's a fondo tomorrow.)

Parking at Moir Park:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8jScUCBUxqfnz6S8A

Cranbrook Touring Recovery Ride, Easy, 44km, 470m, SalFaoro (Sunday, September 13, 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Sal Faoro

Ride level: easy

Distance: 44 km

Pace: 21-24 km/h

Elevation Gain: 470 m

Parking: Elizabeth Lake Lodge registrants will park at the lodge. All other cyclists will park at the nearby Confederation Ball Park.

Choose the ride option with the distance and pace you prefer.

Join us to explore scenic roads in and around Cranbrook for a recovery ride the day after the Kootenays Fondo. The rides are paced for cyclists who need an easier "recovery" day.

We will cycle new roads including Wycliffe Road through Wycliffe and St. Eugene.

This ride starts at the Cranbrook Confederation Ball Park in Cranbrook, just east of Elizabeth Lake Lodge on Wattsville Rd. Cyclists not staying at the lodge should park at the ball diamond and cyclists staying at the lodge should just cycle to the ball diamond parking lot to meet their group.

Meeting location map

Cranbrook Touring Recovery Ride, Int, 59km, 600m, HeatherLyle (Sunday, September 13, 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Heather and Lyle Opseth

Ride level: intermediate

Distance: 59 km

Pace: 23-25 km/h

Elevation Gain: 600 m

Parking: Elizabeth Lake Lodge registrants will park at the lodge. All other cyclists will park at the nearby Confederation Ball Park.

Choose the ride option with the distance and pace you prefer. This ride is a longer distance with a moderate/intermediate pace.

Join us to explore scenic roads in and around Cranbrook for a recovery ride the day after the Kootenays Fondo. The rides are paced for cyclists who need an easier "recovery" day.

We will cycle new roads including Wycliffe Road through Wycliffe and St. Eugene, with a side trip out-and-back on Pighin Road.

Meeting location map

Cranbrook Touring, Adv, 59km, 625m, BobWestlake (Sunday, September 13, 2026)

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Bob Westlake

Ride level: advanced

Distance: 59 km

Pace: 25+ km/h

Elevation Gain: 625 m

Parking: Elizabeth Lake Lodge registrants will park at the lodge. All other cyclists will park at the nearby Confederation Ball Park.

Choose the ride option with the distance and pace you prefer.

Join us to explore scenic roads in and around Cranbrook for a recovery ride the day after the Kootenays Fondo. This is the advanced ride with the longest distance and fastest pace.

We will cycle new roads including Wycliffe Road through Wycliffe and St. Eugene. This longer tour additionally explores Pighin Road.

Meeting location map

Wardner-Fort Steele Rd, Int, 50/60Km, 540m, LyleOpseth (Monday, September 14, 2026)

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Coordinator: Lyle Opseth

Ride level: various

Distance: 60 km (50 km option)

Pace: 23-24 km/h

Elevation Gain: 540 m (430 m option)

You can choose to ride either the full 60 km ride or shorten it to 50 km. Faster cyclists will "self-guide".

Before returning to Calgary on Monday, join us to cycle Wardner Fort Steele Road.You may have missed this segment of the Kootenays Fondo if you did not cycle the full 152 km route.

The start of the ride is the Fort Steele Heritage Town parking lot, just off highway 93.

From the Fort Steele Heritage Town, we ride to the Wardner Fort Steele Road and follow it to the Kootenay Highway (93) and return the way we came. Riders wanting a shorter 50 km ride can turn around at the Bull River Inn.

Please inform your coordinator if you shorten the ride.

Fort Steele Heritage Town map:

Full distance route:

Shorter route option:

Tuesday Tuneup Springbank, Adv, 50km, 500m, HeatherOpseth (Tuesday, September 15, 2026)

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Mark your calendar for a weekly Tuesday evening ride in Springbank! Specific ride details and registration will be posted/opened at the start of each month.

Coordinator: Heather Opseth

Distance: 50 km

Level: For advanced/experienced road riders -- must be comfortable with paceline riding as a group.

Pace:

2-3 groups, based on number of participants.

Advanced group(s): 25-27 kph average speed

Advanced Plus group: 28-30+ kph average speed (self guided)

Note that the average speeds increase as the summer progresses!

Elevation Gain: 500 m

Description:

This is a weekly ride in Springbank, focused on scenic routes, hill training, and intervals where we crank up the intensity.

We will kick off the season with a series of hill training workouts in April and early May. As the summer gets underway, we focus on longer routes, exploring beautiful backroads of the area.

To keep it interesting we ride a different route each week!

Parking spot is the Eden Brook Funeral Home, off Lower Springbank Road. 24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB T3Z 3K2 (see route map for exact location).

Newcomers welcome, however please contact the coordinator in advance if you are unsure about your skill or fitness level for the ride. Email: heather.opseth@icloud.com

There will be good company and a social atmosphere.

***Specific rides/routes and registration will be posted at the start of each month. Please watch for further details throughout the season.***