The North Okanagan Cycling Society (NOCS) has transformed Vernon into a premier destination for mountain biking, offering a well-maintained network of multi-use trails, volunteer opportunities, social rides, and youth programs. Here are some of the key programs and events provided by NOCS, aiming to make cycling a fun, accessible, and community-driven activity for all ages and skill levels.
Trail Ninjas Youth Programs
The Trail Ninjas Youth Programs cater to young riders, helping them develop mountain biking skills and a sense of responsibility for trail maintenance. There are several specialized programs for different age groups and skill levels:
Trail Ninjas Ride Academy: This program, open to kids ages 11-15, is designed for those with riding experience who want to develop competitive biking skills or simply become skilled lifelong riders. The program includes structured rides, leadership training, and field trips. With coaching from certified NCCP and PMBIA professionals, participants receive top-tier guidance to advance their biking abilities.
G Tribe Program: Aimed at girls ages 10-15, this program focuses on confidence-building and technical skills within a supportive environment. With weekly training rides and events like the Trail Fairies trail-building day, G Tribe fosters both community spirit and skill development. This program is perfect for young riders looking for an empowering group experience.
Trail Ninjas Trail Crew (TNT Crew): This inclusive program emphasizes fun group rides and trail maintenance, ideal for youth who enjoy a mix of mountain biking and hands-on learning about trail care. Participants join experienced mentors on trail-building days, where they get hands-on experience working with Vernon’s trail networks.
Mini Ninjas: Designed for children ages 6-9, this beginner program introduces young riders to mountain biking in a safe, structured environment. It emphasizes fundamental biking skills, safety, and the joy of group riding, preparing young bikers for more advanced programs as they grow.
Social Rides and Events
Social rides offer a chance to connect with the community and enjoy Vernon’s trails in a relaxed setting. Thursday night group rides cater to all skill levels, with routes planned to suit green, blue, and advanced trails. Social rides encourage camaraderie and provide a non-competitive way to enjoy the trails with friends and other enthusiasts. BBQ events add a social element to the rides, offering a great way for members to unwind after a day on the trails.
NOCS also organizes the annual Bombshell Solstice Enduro for those interested in race events in partnership with Silver Star Mountain Resort. This women’s mountain biking race invites participants of all levels to test their skills on a 30-kilometre course. From first-time racers to seasoned competitors, the Enduro offers a fun and challenging environment, ending with an awards ceremony and social gathering that celebrates the local biking community.
Expanding and Maintaining Vernon’s Trails
NOCS’s mission is to create an inclusive and accessible trail network for all mountain bikers in the North Okanagan. Working alongside BC Parks, Recreation Sites, and Trails BC, NOCS has developed a robust network of trails in Provincial Parks and Crown Land areas around Vernon, including Kalamalka, Silver Star, and Ellison Provincial Parks. These trails, free to users, are open to mountain bikers, hikers, dog walkers, and horseback riders, with regular maintenance done by dedicated volunteers. Trail updates, including conditions and recently groomed routes, are accessible via the Trailforks app, offering current information on trail conditions, weather impacts, and recent grooming efforts.
Supporting Trails through Membership and Participation
Membership fees and donations directly support the maintenance and expansion of Vernon’s trail systems. NOCS depends on community involvement to maintain its trails, so each membership, volunteer hour, and trail-building event contributes to the future of mountain biking in the area.
Why Join NOCS?
NOCS membership is crucial in supporting and expanding Vernon’s biking infrastructure. Members add strength to the mountain biking community’s voice, advocating for new trails and facilities. Membership benefits include access to weekly group rides, which require a membership due to liability insurance. A portion of the membership fee covers insurance costs, ensuring that NOCS members and trail volunteers are protected.
Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement
NOCS is more than just a mountain biking organization; it’s a community initiative powered by volunteers. From helping with events to assisting in trail maintenance, volunteers are vital to NOCS’s growth and success. Volunteering not only supports the local biking community but offers a chance to meet new people and contribute to trail preservation.
Accessing Vernon’s Trail Networks
Through partnerships with BC Parks and other local organizations, NOCS has created a diverse and well-maintained trail system accommodating all outdoor enthusiasts. The Ellison Provincial Park trails offer various skill levels options, with technical and beginner-friendly routes. Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park features some of the area’s best views, offering an array of loops and single-track trails for bikers of all levels. At Silver Star, groomed winter trails and summer biking trails make it a year-round destination for adventure.
For locals and visitors alike, NOCS offers a gateway to Vernon’s trails, with well-organized programs, community events, and a mission to keep the local biking culture thriving. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a family looking for outdoor activities, NOCS provides the support, trails, and community to make Vernon a top spot for mountain biking in British Columbia.
