RVA Annual Cycling Challenge
Join the River Valley Alliance for the first annual RVA Cycling Challenge!
Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Approx.)
Estimated Riding Time: 4–5 hours (including short breaks)
This a scenic, multi-use path spanning the North Saskatchewan River Valley, connecting Terwillegar Park to the Lamoureux/Fort Saskatchewan area. The actual endpoint is north of the Lamoureux Church at the start of the historic Athabasca overland trail.
Participants will ride approximately 65 km through North America’s longest urban river valley trail systems. The ride concludes north of Lamoureux Church, at the start of the historic Athabasca Overland Trail.
All participants who complete the challenge will receive light refreshments and an RVA Cycling Challenge completion certificate at the finish.
Ride Details
This ride is suitable for cyclists who are comfortable riding approximately 65 km on both paved and gravel multi-use trails.
The terrain is gently sloping with several hills to climb. Depending on the number of registrants and rider comfort levels, participants may be divided into smaller groups.
The average to avid cyclist can expect the ride to take approximately 4–5 hours, including short breaks, although some riders may complete the route in less time.
There will be opportunities to leave the ride along the route if you choose not to complete the full distance. Water refill stations will be available at each of the washroom locations shown on the route map, and these locations can also serve as convenient exit points.
For reference, the halfway point is approximately Rundle Park.
Important Information
- This is a self-supported ride. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the start at Terwillegar Park and from the finish location (or another exit point if leaving the ride early).
- Participants must bring their own bicycle.
- Bicycles must be in good working order, with properly inflated tires, functioning brakes, and working gears.
- A cycling helmet and working bell are required to participate, as there will be many other trail users along the route.
- E-bikes are welcome. Please ensure your battery is fully charged before arriving.
- Please bring water, weather-appropriate clothing, and any food or snacks you may need during the ride.
- Washroom and water refill locations are identified on the route map.
- The ride will proceed unless significant rain or unsafe weather conditions occur. Registered participants will be notified of any updates.
Parking & Meeting
Participants will meet at the east side of the Terwillegar Dog Park parking lot at 8:30 AM for ride instructions before departing.
Look for River Valley Alliance volunteers wearing orange safety vests.
If you are running late or are unable to attend, please contact:
Allan Bly
📞 780-233-5205
Registration
Advance registration through the River Valley Alliance is required, and space is limited.
If you can no longer attend, please cancel your registration through your original confirmation email as soon as possible so your spot can be offered to another participant on the waitlist.
Route Map
An online map of the ride is available here:
