Armstrong, Gravy, and RPM

Armstrong, Gravy, and RPM in Halfmoon Bay, BC is a short, punchy out-and-back that packs more action into 4.8 km than you’d expect. It’s rated easy on paper with about 146 m of gain and a top elevation around 212 m, but it has just enough roots, rocks, and twists to keep you on your toes. Most people wrap it up in about an hour and twenty, making it a solid quick-hit hike, run, or intro mountain bike lap on the Sunshine Coast.

The trail starts from the end of Armstrong Way just off Highway 101, then ducks into the forest where you link Armstrong to Lumpy and quickly swing left onto RPM. From there, you get classic Halfmoon Bay forest: good tree cover, soft dirt in the wetter months, and a short side loop with the 33 1/3 trail before you retrace your steps. Views are mostly about the woods themselves rather than big vistas, but the mix of gentle grades and technical bits keeps it interesting the whole way.

Recent hikers and newer riders note that parts of Armstrong, Gravy, and RPM feel more technical than the “easy” label suggests, especially with roots and uneven sections, so take your time if you’re not used to this kind of terrain. The route runs close to the highway for a chunk, so expect some traffic noise instead of deep-woods silence. It’s usable year-round, but in fall and winter the shade means slick roots and mud; sturdy shoes and maybe poles help a lot, and dog owners should keep pups leashed and visible near the road access.