Bear Back and Lorax (MTB Trail)

Bear Back and Lorax in Mission, BC is a solid 6 km loop if you like a bit of grind for a good payoff. It’s rated moderate, with about 314 m of gain up to roughly 540 m, and usually takes around two hours. Hikers and mountain bikers both use it, but if you time it for early morning or late afternoon, it can feel pretty quiet.

The loop starts with a low to moderate climb, part of it on an access road that can feel a bit long, but it gets you up fast. Once you’re in the forest proper, it turns into a more interesting wander with tighter singletrack and a mix of roots and dirt, plus a nice viewpoint up top if you follow the map closely. Views are better on clear days, and riders get a fun flowing descent while hikers can enjoy a steady downhill cruise back through the trees.

Recent reports say the trail is in good condition with a manageable grade, but people do mention going off-route without checking AllTrails or a GPS app, so keep an eye on your navigation at junctions. This Mission trail usually runs best from March through September, when snow and ice aren’t an issue, but there can be seasonal closures due to weather and forestry operations, so check the City of Mission trail page before you go. Give yourself time to enjoy the top instead of rushing the descent, and watch for bikes on the way down.