QRCA, qathet regional cycling association
mount mahony powell river
The Mount Mahony Trail Project has quickly grown from a grassroots trail network into one of the qathet region’s most exciting outdoor recreation initiatives. Led by the qathet Regional Cycling Association (QRCA), the project combines sustainable trail development, volunteer stewardship, youth engagement, and community collaboration to create a progressive mountain biking destination for riders of all ages and abilities.

What began with local builders shaping iconic trails like OG, Hush, Quick-E, and Civil Disobedience evolved into a long-term vision in 2022 when QRCA partnered with Lees & Associates to develop a master trail plan for Mount Mahony. Following successful Section 57 approvals from Rec Sites and Trail BC and major support from the Powell River Community Forest, Phase 1 construction officially launched in Fall 2023.

mahony overview
Since then, the project has seen significant growth in trail usage:

  • 2024 – Construction of foundational trails and infrastructure, including the Kwukwum Climb Trail, Big Wheeler, ?i?ajs0ot (Having a Good Time), the Inland Lake Connector, new parking lots, trailhead kiosk, and staging areas.
  • Late 2024 / Early 2025 – Phase 2 expansion began with support from the Tourism Growth Program, adding major new descents and connectivity, including Higher Ground, What The Flow, Seek and Destroy, Retrograde Connector, Green Rock Skills Park, and additional climb trail infrastructure.
  • Spring 2025 – QRCA celebrated the completion of a full top-to-bottom blue descent route with a community Season Opener that brought together more than 120 riders and supporters. That same spring, Mount Mahony welcomed more than 500 participants, plus coaches and families, for the BC High School Provincial Mountain Biking Championships, showcasing the growing network on a provincial stage.
  • Summer 2025 – New trail counters, expanded signage, and the opening of Green Rock Skills Park helped improve rider safety, data collection, and progression opportunities throughout the network.
  • Fall / Winter 2025 + Early 2026 – QRCA launched Youth Dig Days, engaging local youth in trail stewardship and hands-on trail building experience alongside volunteers and contractors.

Today, Mount Mahony stands as a year-round recreation hub built through thousands of volunteer hours, strong partnerships, and a shared vision for sustainable outdoor recreation in qathet. From beginner-friendly flow trails and skills park to advanced descents and community events, the Mahony Project continues to grow into a world-class riding destination with community at its core. For a detailed overview of the project, click here.