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Vancouver’s North Shore is one of the most famous riding areas in the world. From its iconic ladder woodwork to the flowing ribbons of singletrack among tall trees, the trail networks of Mount Fromme and Mount Seymour offer options for every level of rider.

The local trail organization (North Shore Mountain Bike Association) has worked hard to protect and maintain these trails, and I’ve spent endless hours riding on Vancouver’s North Shore. If it’s your first time riding here or if you’re looking for suggestions on how to extend your usual ride, the options are limitless with a little imagination. Here are some North Vancouver mountain bike routes to get you started:

### Mount Fromme: beginner route


Drive up Mountain Highway and gear up for your ride in the newly finished Mount Fromme parking lot. Begin by climbing Mountain Highway to the trailhead of Bobsled, and drop in on one of the North Shore’s smoothest trails. As you climb up for your second lap, try climbing Roadside Attraction for a singletrack climb that parallels the road. Descend Upper Griffen, which has some great technical trail features, and turn right on the Towers Connector to return to the parking lot.

*See the [Mount Fromme: beginner route map on Trailforks](https://www.trailforks.com/ridelog/planner/view/9108/)*

### Mount Fromme: intermediate route


Looking for a good mix of technical singletrack and fast, flowy trails? Begin your ride from the Mount Fromme parking lot, and climb up Mountain Highway. Once you pass the fifth switchback, you’ll notice a picnic bench on your left that was installed to recognize the efforts of the infamous Todd “Digger” Fiander. Continue riding 200m further and follow this sequence of trails: Leppard, Crinkum Crankum, Kirkford and Cedar Trail. Start your climb back up Mountain Highway, and at a similar elevation to Leppard, take a left into Expresso, a flow trail that MEC has helped revitalize over the past few years. Follow the Baden Powell back to Mountain Highway, and clean your bike up at the new fancy wash station.

*See the [Mount Fromme: intermediate route map on Trailforks](https://www.trailforks.com/ridelog/planner/view/9109/)*



Rise and grind! Start your climb up the relentless Old Buck trail before (finally) getting a long descent down the west side of Seymour. At the powerlines, hang a left into the new Severed D entrance, and then a quick right onto the Baden Powell Connector. This technical connector was put in to bring traffic to the all-mountain masterpiece Forever After. A great trail for intermediate to experts, Forever After is one of those trails that the more you put into it, the more it gives back! Once you come to Bridle Path, turn left and work on your technical XC skills as you cross back across the mountain. Finish with the famous armored berms of Empress Bypass, and conveniently pop out of the woods at your vehicle.

*See the [Mount Seymour intermediate route map on Trailforks](https://www.trailforks.com/ridelog/planner/view/9110/)*



Hone your skills on climbs, descents, jumps, tech and stunts… it’s all about variety on Seymour. Start off with Old Buck, and get into a comfortable cadence as you climb up Baden Powell, Mushroom Trail and finally plateau at Corkscrew. There’ve been some great additions to Corkscrew and Pingu around jumps, berms and optional lines. Flow your way down before you dive into the technical nature of your second descent, Severed D. Begin winding your way back up to the top using a sequence of ascent trails that make up the nicest singletrack climb on the shore. The final descent? Down Boogieman to Boogie Nights, which is a fantastic mix of classic North Shore features and creative new-school flow.

*See the [Mount Seymour advanced route map on Trailforks](https://www.trailforks.com/ridelog/planner/view/9111/)*

### Want more?
If you’re looking for more riding in North Vancouver, BC, check out [mountain bike guidebooks and maps](/en/ideal-for/cycling+mountain-biking/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/c/922?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3ABritish+Columbia&text=).



## Related articles
- [How to choose a mountain bike](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-mountain-bike)
- [A first-timer’s guide to mountain biking](/en/article/a-first-timers-guide-to-mountain-biking)
- [How to wash your bike](/en/explore/how-to-wash-your-bike)



Top routes on BC’s North Shore from an experienced local rider. From beginner to advanced, see what trails made the list.

Trail tips: North Vancouver mountain bike routes | MEC Blog

Trail tips: Where to mountain bike in North Vancouver

Lakes, trails, forests and parks – camping is the best way to take in everything that Ontario has to offer. Now’s the time to rally your friends for a long weekend camping trip, plan a summer vacation with your kids, or prep your canoe for a dip into wilder places.

Whatever way you choose to enjoy Ontario parks, the province has endless hidden gems to discover and explore. To help you figure out where to camp in Ontario, here are six incredible – and perhaps lesser-known – places to start.

### Wheatley Provincial Park


Located at Ontario’s most southern point (at the same latitude as Northern California!) in Chatham-Kent, [Wheatley Provincial Park](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/wheatley) is a quiet campground that’s great for those looking for some solitude on a weekend getaway or a family camping trip. This park features tangles of creeks, Carolinian forests, creekside campsites and long stretches of sandy beach. The weather in this neck of the woods tends to be warmer, so you’ll be able to use your usual [summer camping gear](/en/article/essential-gear-for-summer-camping-in-ontario).

***Get tips on this weekend getaway in [our guide to camping at Wheatley Provincial Park](https://gto.mec.ca/en/activities/experience-ontarios-deep-south).***

### Thousand Islands National Park


Eastern Ontario is a real playground for people who like to paddle. There’s no better way to take in [Thousand Islands National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/on/lawren/index.aspx) than on the water – with plenty of islands and rivers to explore, bringing a canoe or kayak is a must. Another cool thing about this park? It has oTENTiks to stay in, which are part tent, part cabin.

When you [pack for your canoe trip](/en/article/canoe-or-kayak-touring-checklist), remember to bring long, loose pants and shirts for your time in the forest (ticks are a fact of outdoor life in many parts of eastern Ontario), along with the rest of your gear, so you can spend the night on an island with the stars above your tent.

***See where to start with [our guide to camping in Thousand Islands park](https://gto.mec.ca/en/activities/island-camping-for-a-weekend).***

### Sleeping Giant Provincial Park


Big views of Lake Superior and abundant wildlife watching make [Sleeping Giant](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sleepinggiant) a perfect camping spot. Located on the Sibley Peninsula in northwestern Ontario to the east of Thunder Bay, Sleeping Giant offers 80km of hiking trails and lots of campsites to choose from, a quiet handful of which are tucked on the west side of Marie Louise Lake.

There are plenty of options for dayhikes in the park, along with some trails for biking. If you’re looking for a more challenging overnight trek, the 40-km Kabeyun Trail is an ideal pick (you can also do sections of it on shorter dayhikes). Pass by hidden coves along the way and take in the glorious blue of Lake Superior from Tee Harbour’s cobblestone shore.

### Driftwood Provincial Park


With panoramic views of the Laurentian Hills, [Driftwood Provincial Park](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/driftwood) near Stonecliffe is a nice basecamp to see the Ottawa River by canoe or kayak. An added bonus: Algonquin Provincial Park is only a couple hours away by car, which makes Driftwood a good homebase for campers who want to skip Algonquin’s busy campsite but still paddle its world-renowned canoe routes.

Canoe rentals are available on site, which include PFDs and a boat safety kit. You’ll also want to pack some sunscreen, a hat, a [dry bag](/en/products/watersports/canoeing/dry-bags-waterproof-cases-and-portage-bags/c/1357) to store electronics, snacks and a map case to protect your goods from water.

***Find out where to see epic sunsets with [our guide to camping at Driftwood Provincial Park](https://gto.mec.ca/en/activities/wonderland-for-paddlers-and-sunset-seekers).***

### Ferris Provincial Park


A short drive from Toronto is the town of Campbellford, a spot known for friendly locals and pretty scenery. It’s also your last stop before you enter [Ferris Provincial Park](http://www.ontarioparks.com/park/ferris) – and once you’re inside the park, you’ll never want to leave. Ferris has lots of campsites to choose from along the park’s edges and deep in the forest, so if you’re after a nicely secluded site, Ferris will give you the peace and quiet you’re after. This little-known gem has acres of rivers and forest to wander, but for something different, walk the River Gorge trail to the 300-ft long suspension bridge for a spectacular view.

***Learn more with [our guide to camping in Ferris Provincial Park](https://gto.mec.ca/en/activities/camp-next-to-a-river-gorge).***

### Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater Provincial Park


Located in the heart of the Temagami region, in the middle of 2400km of forests and lakes, [Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/ladyevelynsmoothwater) is a truly wild camping experience. Since this is a designated “wilderness class” park, no cans and bottles are allowed – be sure to pack your food in [reusable containers](/en/products/camping-and-hiking/camp-kitchen/coolers-food-storage-and-bar-items/food-containers/c/1270).

Since this park is located about an hour north of North Bay, you’ll likely have warm days but cold or cool nights. Make sure to pack a sleeping bag rated to at least -7°C, a good sleeping pad for insulation, and cozy layers for brisk evenings. Waking up in the forest makes the chilly nights worth it – nothing beats [camp coffee](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee) when you’re surrounded by towering pines.

***Ready to escape the city? Check out [our guide to camping at Lady Evelyn-Smoothwater park](https://gto.mec.ca/en/activities/explore-the-heights-of-ontarios-backcountry).***

### Where to find these parks


[Map of park locations](https://drive.google.com/open?id=1V8otEG6Jh8dYfeFeBnMFy4z16ZA&usp=sharing)

### A few more tips before you go
Ontario weather can change in the blink of an eye, and gusty winds and rain can come at any time. On your camping checklist, make sure to pack a rain jacket and warm layers, even if the forecast predicts sunny skies. You’ll be happy to have them if the weather turns.

Finally, no matter where you’re camping in Ontario, get to know the [Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles); they’re simple things that make a big difference. Let’s keep our parks pristine for all to enjoy.



## Related articles
- [How to choose a tent](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-tent)
- [Your guide to canoe trips in Algonquin Park](/en/article/your-guide-to-canoe-trips-in-algonquin-park)
- [How to transport a kayak or canoe](/en/explore/how-to-transport-a-kayak-or-canoe)



Go a bit beyond well-known parks and you might be surprised what's out there. See 6 recommendations for places to camp in Ontario, along with photos of what to expect.

Hidden gems: 6 awesome Ontario campsites | MEC Blog

Hidden gems: 6 awesome Ontario campsites

Canada has no shortage of amazing trails and the MEC community loves trail running – it’s a stellar combo. To get you inspired to put on your [trail running shoes](/en/ideal-for/trail-running/products/footwear/shoes/running-shoes/c/1489) and meet your race goals, here are shots of some of our favourite places to go trail running across the country. Have you check out any of these trail running areas?

### Gatineau Park
Old Chelsea, QC



[Gatineau Park](http://www.ncc-ccn.gc.ca/places-to-visit/gatineau-park) is popular with trail runners for a few reasons: it has hills galore, it has a huge network of trails that allow you to switch it up on the regular, and it’s close enough to the city that you can sneak out for a run even if you don’t have a whole lot of time. Just 15 minutes outside of Ottawa-Gatineau, this conservation area houses 165km of trails that vary in length, steepness and difficulty. Heads up: some trails are shared with mountain bikers so make sure to pay attention, or opt for a pedestrian-only trail like the popular 8.3km Wolf Trail (it’s a tough one, so it’s good for more experienced runners).

*Trail resource: [Gatineau Park Summer Trails Map](/en/product/5049-913/Gatineau-Park-Summer-Trails-Map)*

### Mount Seymour
North Vancouver, BC



Mount Seymour provide a sweet mix of technical terrain and entry-level routes, making it a popular place for trail races. The [Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve](http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks/parks-greenways-reserves/lower-seymour-conservation-reserve) is great if you’re heading out with friends with varying running experience, as both newbies and more experienced runners can find something to love. It’s absolutely loaded with trail options, ranging from relatively flat Rice Lake trails to rocky Bridle Path to steeper multi-use trails also used by mountain bikers (listen for riders and share the trail).

If you’re looking for more of an alpine experience, trails in [Mount Seymour Provincial Park](http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/mt_seymour/) wind around Mystery Lake, Goldie Lake and Flower Lake, and Mystery Lake is perfect for a quick dip after you’ve worked up a sweat.

*Trail resources: [Vancouver Trail Running](/en/product/5025-894/Vancouver-Trail-Running) book and the [North Shore Trail Map](/en/product/5045-519/North-Shore-Trail-Map-2nd-Edition)*

### Scanlon Creek Conservation Area
Bradford/West Gwillimbury, ON



A small conservation area in Bradford/West Gwillimbury, [Scanlon Creek](http://www.lsrca.on.ca/Pages/scanlon-creek.aspx) rests just south of Lake Simcoe, about an hour outside of Toronto. This 300-hectare park features hilly terrain that meanders alongside its namesake creek, as well as a scenic lookout as reward for all your hard work. The variety of vegetation makes it a beautiful place to run anytime of year, but spring and fall will offer the best colours and the most agreeable temperatures.

### Bluff Wilderness Trail
Timberlea, NS



The [Bluff Wilderness Trail](http://www.novascotia.com/see-do/trails/the-bluff-wilderness-hiking-trail/6109) is a local favourite for experienced trail runners in Halifax and provides an intense workout that varies in terrain and difficulty levels. Located within the Five Bridge Lakes Wilderness area, Bluff Trail offers four different stacked loops. The shortest is the Pot Lake Loop, which offers a 9km return trip through beautiful landscapes including deciduous woodlands and barren granite terrain. If you’re in for a longer journey, consider heading up to the Bluff Plateau. The trek provides a substantial workout, and the view from one of the highest points in all of Halifax makes your sore glutes well worth it!

### Frontenac Provincial Park
Sydenham, ON



Located near Kingston, [Frontenac](https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/frontenac) is a quintessential Ontario park, offering 100km of backcountry trails past thick forests, swamps and hidden lakes. A variety of trails intersect each other so customizing your run is easy, and there’s a range of terrain options including some stretches of boardwalks. Be on the lookout for forest wildlife as you make your way past beaver dams, bogs, deciduous forest and even 19th century homesteads.

*Trail resource: [Frontenac Park Map](/en/product/5043-437/Frontenac-Park-Map-5th-Edition)*

### Calling all runners
Wish you were as impressive as these rad folks? Read up on [how to start trail running](/en/article/how-to-start-trail-running-tips-for-road-runners) (and how to [properly equip yourself](/en/explore/choose-your-trail-runners)) and this could be you in no time.

*Have your own photos to share? Be sure to follow @mec and use the [#goodtimesoutside](/en/article/goodtimesoutside-our-favourites-so-far) hashtag for your adventures for your chance to be featured in a future post.*

*Photo: Shutterstock / Izf*



Awesome trail running pics to inspire Canadian runners to lace up and go. Have you run in any of these places?

By the pictures: running trails that Canadians love

Canada has no shortage of natural places to visit – with nearly 50 national parks and reserves, there’s endless exploring to be done in our expansive backyard. Some parks are hugely popular – for example, Banff National Park had 3.8 million visitors last year – but there are other national parks that had less than five. And if you’re anything like me, that’s actually a major selling point.

Why not go somewhere less visited? These five northern parks prove that the best way to really feel like you’re on top of the world is to actually go there. Just don’t expect to drive into the park boundaries – these parks are *way*off the beaten track. Venture out of cell range and into some of the most breathtaking, soul-edifying backcountry on the planet.

Consider this post your spark to go somewhere new.

### Sirmilik National Park, Nunavut
Visitors in 2016: 237
Inuktitut for “place of glaciers”



Located on northern Baffin Island and adjacent to the Northwest Passage, [Sirmilik National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nu/sirmilik/index.aspx) actually has the most substantial number of visitors on this list. While its gorgeous glaciers, hoodoos, many-hued stone landscapes and exceptional hiking, sea kayaking and ski touring opportunities are a large part of the draw, these numbers are also because Sirmilik is one of Canada’s more accessible remote parks. There are regular flights to and from Pond Inlet or Arctic Bay, so you don’t have to arrange air travel in advance – though you will have to arrange transport to the park with local guides once you land.

*Recommendations:* Plan for a tour and keep your eyes out for upwards of 40 bird species. You can also take to the sea and paddle through ice floes, coming up along ringed seals, and migrating whales including orcas, belugas and narwhals.

### Wapusk National Park, Manitoba
Visitors in 2016: 231
Cree for “white bear”



Hudson’s Bay cradles the most eastern boundary of [Wapusk National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/mb/wapusk/index.aspx) and, as its name suggests, it’s home to polar bears. In fact, this giant bear species is the main reason people trek onto the perma-frozen tundra of this park, despite the lack of trails and roads. Wapusk is the home and protector of the world’s largest polar bear maternity denning area. At the end of October and beginning of November, about 1000 polar bears make their way through the park’s Cape Churchill region. It’s also home to a 3000-count herd of caribou, as well as moose, red foxes and wolverines.

*Recommendations:* Bring lots of [warm layers](/en/products/clothing/jackets/parkas-and-winter-coats/c/1024?q=%3Asales-rank) and a camera. On wildlife viewing expeditions, there’s a good chance you’ll come across a mother bear and cub.

### Ivvavik National Park, Yukon Territory
Visitors in 2016: 127
Inuvialuktun for “nursery” or “birthplace”



If you truly believe that the adventure is in the journey, then [Ivvavik National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/yt/ivvavik/index.aspx) is one you need to visit. Sprawling over the Yukon’s northwest, this park boasts some enticingly challenging access as well as a primo Arctic hiking experience up one of its famous peaks and along alpine ridge-walks. You can access the peaks right from Sheep Creek Base Camp.

*Recommendations:* Ivvavik is a place of reprieve for the natural world, and – as you can gather from the name – it’s a place where many species come to give birth. Go in the summer and head out on the Firth River to see the enormous migration of caribou.

### Quttinirpaaq National Park, Nunavut
Visitors in 2016: 17
Inuktitut for “land at the top of the world”



Looking for Canada’s most remote national park? Then look no further. [Quttinirpaaq](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nu/quttinirpaaq/index.aspx) is located in northeastern Ellesmere Island and it extends to the polar ice cap, touching the very edge of North America.

The region is filled with glaciers, rivers, ice caps, desert tundra, and rugged cliffs and peaks. This is the land of the midnight sun, with a paradoxically stark but thriving natural world. On land, intrepid trekkers can see muskoxen, caribou and Arctic hares against the backdrop of Arctic poppies and saxifrage. The surrounding waters are home to walruses, seals and narwhals.

*Recommendations*: Save up, because this adventure is a bucket-list item due to transportation and logistic costs. Make it worth every penny by planning your trip between April and May, when you can avoid the potentially dangerous summer ice-melt rapids.

### Tuktut Nogait National Park, Northwest Territories
Visitors in 2016: 4
Inuvialuktun for “young caribou”



[Tuktut Nogait National Park](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nt/tuktutnogait/index.aspx) is located a mere 170km north of the Arctic Circle. This place is the crown jewel of Canada’s national parks, with rolling tundra and wild terrain as far you can see.

The area covers over 16,000 square kilometers – [bring your GPS](/en/products/gear/electronics/handheld-gps%2c-maps%2c-and-accessories/c/1139) – and has archaeological sites that date back 1200 to 1500 AD. With deep canyons and dramatic waterfalls, it offers a sprawling Arctic landscape filled with incredible wildlife. While the land may look barren, it’s been populated for thousands of years, and today’s Paulatak residents continue to fish, harvest berries, trap and more.

*Recommendations:* Visit in summer, as winters are particularly harsh. In the warmer months, you can enjoy hiking over the startlingly barren land and canoeing the Hornaday River Canyon.

### Torngat Mountain National Park, Northern Labrador
Inuktitut for “place of spirits”
Visitors in 2016: unavailable



The Inuit and their predecessors have called the [Torngat Mountains](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/nl/torngats/index.aspx) home for thousands of years. The hugely varied landscape of this area runs the gamut from towering mountain ranges (the highest mainland, east of the Rockies!) to waters packed with icebergs to the striking bedrock of the George Plateau. There are no roads, no signs and no set campgrounds – just mountains, glaciers and an incredible [northern sky](/en/article/how-to-do-anything-navigate-using-the-stars).

*Recommendations:* You can access the park by air, boat or snowmobile, and you have to register with park officials before exploring (for remote parks like this one, they encourage you to talk to them about your plans before your arrival). Consider using the services of a trained Inuit polar bear guard, who can help you travel safely and with respect for the people and wildlife of the area.

### Feeling inspired?
Some other really off-the-beaten path parks include Auyuittuq National Park in Nunavut (265 visitors in 2015, and featured in the cover pic), Nahanni National Park (1044 visitors) and Nááts’ihch’oh National Park & Reserve. There’s no question that a trip to any of these places will take [serious planning](/en/products/gear/books%2c-maps-and-dvds/guidebooks/c/932?q=%3Asales-rank%3ACFreferenceRegionality%3ANorthern+Canada), lots of packing (and serious planning about packing), but they’re well worth the effort.

Even if you don’t travel nearly this far north, there are plenty of beautiful, less-visited places to explore all over Canada. Wherever you choose to visit, make sure to follow the [Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles) and check out [backcountry clinics](/en/explore/hiking-and-camping-events) at MEC stores for more tips on outdoor adventure.



Discover some of the wildest places in the country. One of these parks had less than five visitors in one year, and all of them have pretty epic landscapes.

True north: A guide to Canada’s remote national parks | MEC Blog

True north: A guide to Canada’s remote national parks

A little cold weather is no reason to pack up your camping gear – especially when you live in or are visiting Alberta. Winter is actually a great time to break out your tent and enjoy the outdoors.

No crowds means the natural world is even more tranquil. Combine this with how many beautiful campgrounds stay open year-round and you’ll want to pack up your [long johns](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/c/1053) and a warm [winter sleeping bag](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking+winter-and-expedition-camping/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/c/1405?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) to head out on the weekend.

Winter campsites don’t usually require reservations, which usually means they’re filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Wherever you go, remember to [bring lots of layers](/en/explore/clothing-layers) and follow our tips to [stay warm and sleep warm](/en/explore/staying-warm-and-sleeping-warm).

Here’s where you can find some of Alberta’s best winter camping:

### Chain Lakes Provincial Park
Where: Municipal District of Ranchland

Even though the town of Nanton is less than 40km away, [Chain Lakes Provincial Park](http://www.albertaparks.ca/chain-lakes-pp/information-facilities/camping/chain-lakes/) provides a feeling of seclusion – which is perfect if you’re looking to recharge your batteries. And speaking of batteries, you may as well power-down your phone because you’ll have to drive 10 minutes out of the park to get any reception. There’s a payphone on site for emergencies (and a [satellite phone](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/navigation/personal-locators%2c-satellite-phones-and-plbs/c/1149) is another option you could bring), but otherwise, you’re blissfully cut off.

After a day outside hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, you can get cozy in one of the heated shelters, which come equipped with gas stoves so that you can warm up with [delicious, hot beverages](/en/article/7-delicious-ways-to-stay-warm-outside-this-winter).

Other nearby attractions are [Head-Smashed In Buffalo Jump](http://www.history.alberta.ca/headsmashedin/) and [Frank Slide Interpretive Centre](http://www.frankslide.com/). If your trip is delayed until the summer months, you can add [Bar-U Ranch](http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/ab/baru/visit/visit1.aspx) to your list (open May through September).



### Big Elbow Provincial REC AREA
Where: Sheep River Valley Area, Kananaskis Country

Hugging the eastern slopes of the Rockies, [Big Elbow Provincial Recreation Area](https://www.albertaparks.ca/big-elbow/) is your winter camping pick if spotting wildlife is an essential part of your adventures. The valley it’s in is named for the bighorn sheep that roam the area, but the Big Elbow Backcountry Campground also offers nature fans the chance to keep an eye out for elk, moose and deer without the summer crowds (pack your [binoculars](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/binoculars/c/900?q=%3Asales-rank)). You can also strap on some skis or snowshoes and explore the surrounding [Sheep Valley trails](https://www.albertaparks.ca/media/3063748/sheep_valley_map_final_600x600_x95__revised.pdf) (pdf). Campsites offer outdoor fire pits and free firewood, so you can warm up under the stars after a day of exploring.

### Beauvais Lake Provincial Park
Where: Pincher Creek

Infinitely peaceful [Beauvais Lake Provincial Park](https://www.albertaparks.ca/beauvais-lake/) provides a spread of sprawling winter scenery for the cold-weather camper. Big mountain views make this park a popular year-round destination – though winter brings a special feeling of peace and quiet. For wildlife watchers, keep an eye out for signs or tracks of deer, moose, rabbits or maybe even a wolverine. With a number of dog-friendly trails and cross-country skiing options, Beauvais Lake is a perfect choice for those who want both beautiful wilderness and a healthy dose of exercise.



*Bonus campground:*

### Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park
Where: Milk River, Alberta

This one’s a bit of a drive from the Rockies, but the Milk River Valley makes it well worth the added effort. [Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park](https://www.albertaparks.ca/writing-on-stone/information-facilities/camping/writing-on-stone/) offers some of the finest winter camping in Alberta, and also has the largest concentration of rock art on the North American Plains – some of which might be as much as 5000 years old. The park features over 60 campsites (some with electricity) for winter use, and there are hoodoos and trails that follow the Milk River. It’s a sacred area and the Milk River Valley is home to more First Nations pictographs (rock paintings) and petroglyphs (rock carvings) than any other park in North America.

### New to winter camping?
Or need ideas on what to pack? Check out [26 winter camping tips beginners should know](/en/article/winter-camping-tips-26-things-beginners-should-know). Now bundle up, get out there and have fun until your eyelashes get frosty.

*Wherever you go, always leave a trip plan. If your destination takes you into the backcountry, make sure you have all the appropriate winter backcountry****[safety essentials](/en/article/ski-touring-checklist)****and avalanche training. And of course, remember to follow****[Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles) – they apply year-round.*





*Images: Danny Xu / Shutterstock, Blazej Lyjak / Shutterstock, Pexel*



Looking for some of Alberta's best winter camping? Find out where to go for big mountain views and quiet sites with trails and other attractions nearby.

Where to go winter camping near the Rockies | MEC Blog

Where to go winter camping near the Rockies

Many people think winter camping is something impossible or extreme. But in reality, as long as you have the right gear and plan ahead, it can be a fun way to get your friends together outside in the off-season.

The biggest thing about winter camping is to be prepared. If you’re a beginner winter camper, choose a location that’s easy to get to and plan a single night trip, so you can fine-tune your systems and have an easy out in case of anything unexpected.

Want to give it a try? Here are 26 things to keep in mind for your winter camping trip:

## What to pack


1. Start with a gear list – you don’t want to forget anything, especially if it’s something you need to keep warm. Take a look at our [backpacking checklist](/en/article/backpacking-checklist) and [ski touring checklist](/en/article/ski-touring-checklist) for ideas on what to bring.

2. Pack plenty of warm layers, including clean, dry layers to sleep in. Are you someone who’s always cold? Read more tips on [staying warm and sleeping warm](/en/explore/staying-warm-and-sleeping-warm).

3. Avoid clothes made of cotton and go for synthetic or merino wool [base layers](/en/products/clothing/base-layers-and-underwear/c/1053) instead. [Wool is an excellent material](/en/explore/wool-garments-for-the-outdoors) that keeps you warm and traps heat, which makes it a great choice for damp conditions.

4. Wear [waterproof boots](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/footwear/boots/c/1189?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) that have soles with solid traction for snowy trails.

5. [Hand and toe warmers](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/health-and-safety/hand-and-toe-warmers/c/1212?q=%3Asales-rank) are excellent ways to keep fingers and feet warm.

## Making a fire
6. If you plan to make a fire, come prepared with [fire starters](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/kitchen/stoves%2c-fuel-and-fire/fire-starters%2c-matches-and-lighters/c/1282?q=%3Asales-rank), wood, paper and an extra lighter.

7. Make sure to bring enough wood – don’t underestimate how cold it can get during the winter! Since winter is the off-season at many campgrounds, services can be limited in some parks so there may not be wood for sale. Some parks sell wood at their visitor centres since it’s forbidden to gather wood in most parks.

8. If your campsite is far away from the parking area or trailhead, bring a sled to drag in your wood and supplies.

9. Dig a hole in the snow to help keep your fire from collapsing when the snow melts. Using a fire pan is a good alternative (see [Leave No Trace](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principle-minimize-campfire-impacts) for info).

## Sleeping warm
10. Use a [foam pad](/en/sleeping-pad-type/foam-pad/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) under your [inflatable sleeping pad](/en/sleeping-pad-type/self_._inflating+insulated/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-pads/c/1416?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) for added warmth. It also doubles as a good seat that won’t get soggy in the snow. (Find out how to [choose a sleeping pad](/en/explore/about-sleeping-pads).)

11. Depending on the expected temperatures, bring a [sleeping bag](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bags/c/1410?f=CFseasons%3AWinter+%28-40%C2%B0C+to+-15%C2%B0C%29) rated for winter camping (-15°C to -40°C). Get tips on [choosing a sleeping bag](/en/explore/choose-your-sleeping-bag).

12. Use a [sleeping bag liner](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/sleeping-bags%2c-sleeping-pads%2c-quilts-and-pillows/sleeping-bag-liners/c/1406) in your sleeping bag for a bit of extra warmth.

13. Create your own hot water bottle:





16. Condensation and snow can make your tent and sleeping bag damp. When you get home from your trip, make sure to dry out all your gear very well before you pack it up. This prevents mildew and is [good tent care](/en/explore/how-to-care-for-your-tent).

## Meal time


13. Bring extra fuel, since you’ll likely be melting snow for water. [White gas stoves](/en/product/5020-289/946ml-unit-%2832fl-oz%29-Stove-Fuel) work well in freezing cold temperatures.

14. Make sure you bring meals that are quick and easy to prepare (single pot options or just add hot water [freeze-dried meals](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/food-and-drink/entrees/c/1180?q=%3Asales-rank) are good ideas). Cooking and cleaning up in mitts can be challenging!

## Setting up your campsite


15. Bring a [small shovel](/en/products/gear/snowsports-gear/avalanche-and-backcountry-safety-gear/avalanche-shovels-and-saws/c/802) to clear the snow for your tent site. Dig an area in the snow for your tent to help protect you from the wind. Packing down snow under your tent gives you an even sleeping surface, and you won’t sink down into the snow at night.

16. Make sure you give yourself enough time to organize your campsite, since you’ll be doing some snow shoveling. Start preparing your site at least an hour and a half before sunset so that you won’t be caught in the dark.

17. Use a [four-season tent](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/c/1436?f=CFtentsSeasons%3A4-season).

18. Bring a [tarp](/en/ideal-for/camping-and-hiking/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/tarps%2c-shelters-and-bothy-bags/c/1441?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) to cover anything that will remain outside at night in case it snows.

19. When you [select your tent site](/en/explore/choosing-a-tent-site), make sure you’re not under any tree branches heavy with snow.

## Extra tips


23. Don’t forget [lighting](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/lighting-and-headlamps/c/1296?q=%3Asales-rank) (lanterns, headlamps and candles are a must) and extra [batteries](/en/products/gear/electronics/batteries-and-chargers/alkaline-batteries/c/1114?q=%3Asales-rank).

24. If you want to keep your backpack light, bring [water treatment](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/water-bottles-and-filters/water-treatment/water-treatments-and-tablets/c/1243) and melt snow instead of packing in water.

25. All electronic equipment loses power faster in the cold. Try portable power packs like the easily transportable [Goal Zero](/en/product/5043-188/Flip-10-Recharger). They work great!

26. Bring [camp chairs](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/camp-and-beach-furniture/chairs-and-chair-kits/c/1434), blankets or your closed-foam pad so that you don’t have to sit directly on the snow. It’s the best way to avoid freezing your buns.

For a full list of what to bring winter camping, see our [winter camping gear checklist](/en/explore/winter-camping-gear-checklist).

*Wherever you go, always leave a trip plan. If your destination takes you into the backcountry, make sure you have all the appropriate winter backcountry [safety essentials](/en/article/ski-touring-checklist) and avalanche training. And of course, remember to follow [Leave No Trace principles](http://www.leavenotrace.ca/principles) – they apply year-round.*



Want to camp year-round? Check out these helpful tips for camping in the snow, from how to stay warm at night to what kind of food and gear to pack.

Winter camping tips: 26 things beginners should know | MEC Blog

Winter camping tips: 26 things beginners should know

Exploring new places by mountain bike is my favourite way to travel, and I’ve been lucky enough to ride in many stunning locations around the world. Whether I was guiding clients on a mountain bike tour or riding with friends, my top travelling memories are from behind a set of handlebars on trails that were totally new to me.

When it comes to favourites, here’s my list of some of the best places to mountain bike in the world, along with a few places I haven’t been to (yet) but come highly recommended by fellow riders and friends.

### 1. Zermatt, Switzerland


One of the world’s most famous mountaineering and skiing destinations also offers an incredibly unique mountain bike experience. The town of [Zermatt](https://www.trailforks.com/region/zermatt/) sits below the Matterhorn, and from there you can access trails using a combo of funicular railways, gondolas and trams. When you step off the Gornergrat Bahn railway at 3089m elevation, you get a 360-degree view of the Monte Rosa, the Matterhorn and the Matter Valley, with nearly 1500m of singletrack ahead of you to the valley.

### 2. South Chilcotin Mountains: BC, Canada


There are few places in the world that offer riding as epic and beautiful as the high alpine singletracks of the [South Chilcotins](https://www.trailforks.com/region/south-chilcotin-mountains-provincial-park/). This vast area gives mountain bikers so many options for legendary flow, big days of riding and accessing adventure, including travelling into the backcountry by float plane.

### 3. Laugavegur Route: Iceland


One of the most geographically interesting places in the world, Iceland’s a true adventure when it comes to riding destinations. The Laugavegur, a famous hut-to-hut trek, is a 55km ride through changing landscapes of hardened lava flow, desolate mountain passes and meandering river valleys. All with challenging weather conditions. Riding in Iceland is not for the faint of heart as it’s a true backcountry experience with limited support and services, but it’ll leave you with amazing life-long memories.

### 4. Sea-to-Sky Corridor: BC, Canada


When it comes to mountain biking, the Sea-to-Sky corridor is home to some of the most famous trails in the entire world. [Squamish](https://www.trailforks.com/region/squamish/), [Whistler](https://www.trailforks.com/region/whistler/map/) and [Pemberton](https://www.trailforks.com/region/pemberton/) have extensive networks with something for every level of rider. Whether you want to warm up on Whistler’s Zappa Trail network, challenge yourself in Squamish on Somewhere Out There, or navigate Pemberton’s dry and rocky routes, it’s all at your fingertips in the Sea-to-Sky.

### 5. Queenstown, New Zealand


[Queenstown](https://www.trailforks.com/region/queenstown/) has become an international adventure destination and a popular escape for North Americans looking to chase summer. The town sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by XC, all-mountain and lift-access mountain biking. Trails like Salmon Run in the Fernhill Trails area give you 578m of descending, which puts you nearly at lake level.

### 6. Kananaskis Country: Alberta, Canada


West of Calgary in the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains, [Kananaskis Country](https://www.trailforks.com/region/kananaskis-country/) has an amazing network of cross-country singletrack. I grew up riding the trails in West Bragg Creek, and they’re a great option for putting together intermediate-level rides. One of my personal favourites is the Jumpingpound Ridge/Cox Hill descent. It is without doubt one of the best rides in Alberta.

### 7. Liguria, Italy


The coastal region in [northwestern Italy](https://www.trailforks.com/region/Liguria) has amazing beaches, diverse trails, and is a prime destination for riders in spring because of the mild climate. The trails of Finale Ligure have gained in popularity since they host the Enduro World Series year after year, but the entire area has so much to offer. Calice Ligure has some fantastic singletrack descents, and Calizzano is a must-ride if you’re interested in high-speed flow trails.

### 8. Portes du Soleil, France


The [Portes du Soleil](https://www.trailforks.com/region/portes-du-soleil/) is a riding network that’s made up of *12*different resorts. Linked together across the borders of France and Switzerland, the trail network uses 20 mountain lifts and varies from full DH bike park style to perfect alpine singletrack. The access to alpine riding and tracks for every level of rider have made the Portes du Soleil a world-famous destination.

### 9. Moab: Utah, United States


Home to some of the top riding on the planet, [Moab](https://www.trailforks.com/region/moab/)’s trails come in a wide variety of technical difficulties. Slickrock and Porcupine Rim are some of Moab’s most well-known trails, and offer incredibly tacky trail conditions and stunning views. Moab’s a quick flight away from most major cities in Canada, and it can make a great spring getaway to help get your legs in shape for the season.

### 10. Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec
[Mont-Saint-Anne](https://www.trailforks.com/region/montsainteanne/) has more to offer than just the XC and DH race tracks made famous by the UCI World Cup events. At the top, you’ll see huge views of the Saint Lawrence and be treated to a choice of nearly 50 trails built upon its slopes. Another bonus? Since it’s about 30 minutes from the rich culture of Quebec City, you can stay in the city and use its central location as the perfect staging ground to other nearby up-and-coming riding destinations, like Sentiers du Moulin and Vallée Bras-du-Nord.

*Want to get inspired to ride more trails? Check out some of the many [mountain bike groups across Canada](/en/article/mountain-bike-trails-you-helped-build)** MEC has helped support over the years, and some of the trail highlights in those areas.*

*Top photo: Mattias Fredriksson*



## Related articles
- [Mountain biking gear checklist](/en/explore/mountain-biking-gear-checklist)
- [Expedition: mountain biking in India](/en/article/mountain-biking-in-northern-india)
- [Mountain bike tires: tubes vs. tubeless](/en/explore/mountain-bike-tires-tubes-vs-tubeless)



Some of the best places to mountain bike in the world. From hut-to-hut treks in Iceland to epic alpine singletrack in Canada, your dream bike trip might just be on this list.

Must-do mountain bike destinations | MEC Blog

Must-do mountain bike destinations

Little known fact: MEC helps build mountain bike trails. A lot of them. Sometimes, it’s our [staff that do the digging](/en/article/getting-our-hands-dirty-mec-vs-arcteryx-trail-building) themselves, but way more often it’s the talented trail associations across Canada doing the heavy lifting – both in terms of dirt and plans. MEC helps make their trail goals happen with support via community grants and partnerships.

Every time you buy something from MEC – whether it’s a [turtle light](/en/product/5006-705/Turtle-White-LED-Front-Light) or an [Intense bike](/en/brand/intense/products/gear/cycling-gear/bikes/mountain-bikes/c/1527?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) – 1% of your purchase goes directly toward our community programs, which includes things like supporting trail networks and mountain bike groups.

Wonder where some of your 1% has gone? Here are a few highlights (from a much bigger list) of mountain bike organizations across Canada – from west to east – that you and other MEC members have helped support through your purchases. There are also lots of local tips on what to check out when you’re riding in these areas.

### BC: Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association


Over 20 years, [SORCA](http://www.sorca.ca/) has evolved from a couple of buddies building trails on Sundays to a collective organizing everything from races and social rides to mass trail maintenance days. In the past few years, MEC’s helped restore the flow with $13,500 to the iconic corners rebuild project, and also gave $9900 to the Alice Lake/Garibaldi Diamond Head trail access project. We caught up with Trail Funding Director Todd for some things to know about the area:

**Most popular trail in the area:**[Half Nelson](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/all/top/), according to Trailforks. It’s listed as one of the top mountain bike trails in the world.

**What’s unique**: The combination of grippy rock slabs, technical singletrack, machine-built flow trails and an ever-expanding number of dedicated climbing trails.

**Total kilometres to ride**: About 173km, but I expect it’s actually higher.

**Big plans for the area**: In 2017, SORCA will open a new climb trail that’ll extend the Legacy climb by approximately 6km, for a total trail length of 12km. This will mean a singletrack climb from Quest University all the way to the Garibaldi Park boundary.

### BC: North Shore Mountain Bike Association


Celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, the [NSMBA](http://nsmba.ca/) works to protect and maintain trails on the iconic North Shore. Their mission? “Trails for all. Trails forever.” MEC’s been a partner for years and has given grants for projects like restoring Bridle Path ($15,000), trail signage ($4500), and even a capacity building grant for an NSMBA staff position ($30,350). We’re also the proud trail adopter of Expresso. We connected with trail-building legend Todd “Digger” Fiander and NSMBA President Jenny for some highlights to check out when you’re riding in this area:

**Most popular trails on the Shore**: [Bobsled](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/bobsled/) and [Expresso](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/expresso) (some of the most popular trails in BC, according to Trailforks).

**Personal favourite**: [Ladies Only](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/ladies-only), because it has the first-ever teeter-totter on a mountain bike trail. The 13 little waterfalls between the teeter-totters are quite pretty as well.

**What’s unique:**The creative use of cedar and woodwork. Our trails give you the feeling that you’re surfing the lay of the land.

**Big plans for the area**: Redirting all of Expresso. Lower Expresso opening in 2017, which will extend this route to 1865m of continuous singletrack and introduce new A-frames and tabletops. This trail was created with more than 450 volunteer labour hours – a terrific example of what we can accomplish by bringing our community together.

### BC: Western Canada Youth Bike Coalition Society


In 2016, we gave $15,000 to the [Western Canada Youth Bike Coalition Society](http://aymbp.ca/home.html) to help build partnerships and capacity in First Nation communities to plan, create and maintain trails – all with a strong focus on youth and mountain biking. That helped fund different trail areas, including the [Xats’ull Nation trails](https://www.trailforks.com/region/xats-ull-soda-creek-1467672009/?lat=52.333875&lon=-122.252941&z=13&m=trailforks) north of Williams Lake, the system in Chu Chua built by Simpcw Nation, and trails in [Williams Lake](https://www.trailforks.com/region/williams-lake/). When you’re exploring there, here are some highlights to look for from local riders:

**Most popular in these areas**:

- [DH Hipsta](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/dh-hipsta/) (Xats’ull Nation trails): fun, fast and has quite possibly the biggest wooden feature in BC. “The Separator” is a crazy-big wallride/gap jump that splits the trail into two lines.
- Axehead Trail ([Chu Chua](https://www.trailforks.com/region/chu-chua-17656/)): a fast, flowy track that follows the footsteps of our ancestors as they moved throughout our traditional territories hunting, gathering and trading with other Nations.
- [Chief William XC](https://www.trailforks.com/region/chief-will-yum/?lat=52.131714&lon=-122.055016&z=14&m=trailforks) (Williams Lake): wonderful intermediate-level technical cross-country trail that runs along a ridge with amazing lookouts over the valley.

**Big plans for the areas:**

- Williams Lake: Plans to build a short connector from the campsite to the South Lake Side trail network. This will open up an amazing XC route, connecting all four major Williams Lake networks.
- Xats’ull Nation trails: Lots of plans… a long XC is up next.

### AB: Calgary Mountain Bike Alliance


The [CMBA](http://www.cmbalink.com/) works across five areas: Station Flats in Kananaskis, Bowmont Park, Fish Creek Provincial Park, Paskapoo Slopes and 12 Mile Coulee. MEC recently hooked up the CMBA with a $5500 grant to help build the Fish Creek MTB Skills Park. David from the CMBA gives us the lowdown on what to look forward to when you’re riding here:

**Most popular in the area**: [Ridgeback](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/ridgeback-3/) (especially since we added the boardwalks). The [Fish Creek MTB Skills Park](http://cmbalink.com/bikepark/) has dramatically exceeded our expectations in terms of popularity. It’s amazing how many people are using it.

**Personal favourite**: [Moosepackers](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/moose-packers/) to R4/R3 is so much fun. It’s fast, with everything from roots to rock gardens to berms.

**What’s unique**: Most of our trails are fairly narrow – 1m max between trees – and usually don’t have technical trail features. This will change, since rider skills and the capabilities of bikes have improved dramatically. People are riding faster and looking for more advanced features.

### ON: Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club trails


About an hour and a half north of Toronto, the [Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club](https://scmbc.ca/) is one of the largest trail organizations in Ontario. In 2016, SCMBC were winners of the $10,000 MEC Dirt Search grant to improve and expand their singletrack network, flow trail and signage. SCMBC board member Ian gives us the latest on the region:

**Three words to describe the trails:** Clean, fast, flowing.

**Big plans:**We’re negotiating with private landowners to gain access to private property connectors; we’re on a path to create a mountain bike mecca in Ontario.

**Favourite trail:**Creeks Trail. This 10km trail was built by a dedicated group of volunteers (with financial assistance from the MEC Dirt Search). It’s a long ride without many intersections, and has 9 bridges from 15 to 75ft long. It was designed for winter grooming so the elevation changes are gradual, which makes it fun for all abilities and all seasons.

**Post-ride recommendations**: Kenzington’s Burger Bar (Barrie, Orillia, Bradford) for one of the best burgers you’ll ever eat.

### ON: Ottawa Mountain Bike Association


Founded in 2005, the [OMBA](http://ottawamba.org/cms/) works with landowners and stakeholders to support mountain bike access in the South March Highlands Conservation Area, and are now the voice of mountain bikers in the Ottawa area. In 2016, they received a $500 Staff Choice Community Grant through MEC Ottawa to support their group. Here’s the nitty-gritty on the area from Sandra at the OMBA:

**Most popular**: [PWT](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/pwt-west/) (Pete’s Wicked Trail), a great intermediate trail with interesting rocky features. Advanced riders can ride it all, and it has fun flow sections for intermediates.

**Personal favourite:**In summer, it’s [Outback](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/outback-4426/), a technical trail that’s a full-body workout. For winter fat biking, it’s [Trail 66](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/trail-66-67622/) in Gatineau Park, which is a blast to ride when it’s hard-packed snow.

**What’s unique?** The South March Highlands trails are more technically demanding (with many large rock features) than the average trail network. If you learn to ride here, you can use those skills at other riding areas around the world. It’s a tough place to learn, but also very rewarding.

**Big plans:** [Shadow’s Ridge](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/shadow-s-ridge/), a fun new trail finished in 2016 that’s aimed at beginner and intermediate riders. The signs go in for the 2017 season so it’ll be easier to follow. A dedicated team of volunteers creatively built it using the natural features of the area.

### QC: Velo MSM trails
[Velo MSM](http://www.velomsm.com/en/) provide stellar intermediate and advanced trails for the Ottawa-Gatineau region. In 2013, MEC set them up with a mega $15,000 grant for Mont Ste-Marie trail development. Here’s what you can look forward to when you’re there, courtesy of Ted at Velo MSM:

**Most popular in the area**: [Growler](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/growler/): flow trail, super fast and fun. [TTOP](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/taylor-s-tower-of-power-3394/): climbing trail seen as the best uphill in the region. [Lager](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/lager/): our toughest technical all-mountain downhill trail.

**Personal favourite**: Lager – it’s a white-knuckler no matter how many times you ride it. Plus the faster you go through the technical sections, the more flow they have.

**Big plans for the area**: Watch for another beginner trail in the lake area, a new technical downhill trail, and a lollipop loop into a new ridgeline in an undiscovered area for trails.

### QC: Vallée Bras-du-Nord


The [VBN](http://www.valleebrasdunord.com/mountain-biking-english.php) is a long-standing pillar of the Quebec City trail community. Primarily known as a XC destination, a number of high-quality gravity trails have recently emerged. Over the years, MEC has supported them through different partnerships and grants that total about $46,000. We caught up with VBN communications director Magalie for info on the area.

**What’s unique?** The VBN experience is all about rustic nature, varied places to stay, rigorous trail maintenance and a warm welcome.

**Personal favourite:** For beginners, it’s [Beurre d’Érable](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/beurre-d-erable-6976/) trail, a sweet singletrack for first-timers. For more advanced riders, the [Boréale](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/la-boreale/) trail wins the gold. This fantastic enduro style trail has descents with berms and jumps, the perfect combo for adrenaline junkies.

**Most popular in the area**: [Neilson](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/neilson-est/) is the signature trail. It’s a cross-country type trail that offers technical climbs, descents with berms, wood bridges and natural obstacles. It winds through the valley along the river and has spectacular views of the mountain – a must when you’re riding here.

### QC: Plein-Air Ste-Adèle


[Plein-Air Ste-Adèle](http://pleinairsteadele.com/) serves riders from Montreal and the surrounding area with trails for all tastes, from cross-country to freeride and even fat bike trails in winter. Along with a staff choice grant, they also received a grant from MEC for their freeride trail and bike park. Here’s the scoop, at a glance, from Matheiu at PASA:

**Most popular in the area:** [L’érablière](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/erabliere/) is at the top of the list. And for the best riders, [La BouBou](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/la-boubou/) and [40 trail](https://www.trailforks.com/region/pentes-40-80/) in the freeride park are very popular.

**Three words to describe this area:**Diverse, close (Montreal’s less than an hour’s drive away), accessible (no trail fees).

**Personal favourite:** [Yogi](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/yogi/) trail. It’s long, winding and is just as nice going up as down because of it’s grade. There are also wooden bridges and boulders that add to the fun.

### NB: Club Plein Air de Caraquet


Established in 1989, [Club Plein Air de Caraquet](http://www.clubpleinaircaraquet.com/) wants to get people outside, and mountain biking is a part of that goal. MEC contributed a grant when they built their first kilometres of trails, along with funds to help them hire a recreation expert for the organization. Here are some things to know about the area, from a number of riders in the region:

**Three words to describe the region**: Forest, sea and Acadian culture.

**Most popular trail:** La Clairière. Riders love its sunny panoramas, its wildflowers, its five berms as well as its bumps and jumps.

**Big plans for the area:** Our goal for 2017 is to build an additional 4km of mountain bike trails. We also want to offer a second round of the Sprockids program and third edition of Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.

### NS: Na Beinn Trails Cycling Association


The [Na Beinn Trails Cycling Association](https://www.facebook.com/nabeinntrails) helps make mountain biking happen in and around Mabou and Port Hood, and wants to create an accessible trail network for riders of all levels. In 2015, MEC gave trail crews $5800 to boost trails and infrastructure. Here’s the scoop from Yann at the association:

**Most popular**: The [Celtic Shores Coastal Trail](http://www.celticshores.ca/), the product of an absolutely amazing rails-to-trails project that’s part of the Trans-Canada Trail. The ride is accessible to all, with great surfaces, gentle grades and amazing sights likes ocean views, beautiful valleys and historic bridges.

**Personal favourite**: An abandoned road that’s still used by ATVs, but with some provisions for singletrack for hiking or mountain biking (your GPS may say you can drive on this road, but you better not fall for it!). It connects the amazing Mabou Coal Mines area to the more remote areas of Cape Mabou.

**What’s unique?**: There’s a bit of everything for everyone. From calm gravel backroads to the accessible Celtic Shores Coastal Trail to the rugged hiking trails of the Cape Mabou Trail Club.

*From coast to coast, these are just a few of many highlights from busy mountain bike clubs and organizations – there too many to fit in a single blog post!*



## Related articles
- [Must-do mountain bike destinations](/en/article/must-do-mountain-bike-destinations)
- [How to choose a mountain bike](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-mountain-bike)



From BC's North Shore to Nova Scotia, these MTB groups have been busy. Find out some highlights from years of support – made possible by the community program and MEC members across Canada – along with local tips.

Mountain bike trails you helped build | MEC Blog

Mountain bike trails you helped build

New deals dropping – see what’s fresh

Free store pickup and returns. Find out more

Phone: (514) 788-5878

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




Bike shop

Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:



### Local events
Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you to see what’s happening in store, make connections with interesting people and get active outdoors. Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings.



### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email mon_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly. *



Community

If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Montreal for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Montreal opened in 2003, and was our first store in Quebec. It was also the first retail building in Quebec to meet the national C2000 Green Building Standard, and the amount of energy it consumes is nearly 70% less than was required by the Model National Energy Code at the time of construction. Here are some of the green features:

- The wood deck inside the curved roof was salvaged from the Seagram’s distillery in Ville Lasalle. Salvaged wood is also used in the entrance canopy and railings.
- To reduce material waste, the concrete slabs contain 27% blast furnace slag (a by-product of steel manufacturing).
- 50% of the materials used in the building are made of recycled content, by weight.
- Walls are insulated with cellulose fibre from recycled newsprint to cut down on energy consumption (they provide about twice as much thermal insulation as conventional retail buildings from the same era).
- Captured precipitation (stormwater run-off) from the roof is stored in a 45,000L underground cistern, and is used for landscaping and toilet water – this cuts our potable water use in half.
- To keep energy usage down, the concrete floor acts as a thermal reservoir that’s warmed or cooled by fluid pumped through embedded piping. Twelve geothermal wells pump extracted heat in winter and disperse heat in summer.
- There’s mostly natural ventilation with fresh air coming in through underground tunnels. In summer, warm air rises and escapes through roof vents and motorized window openings.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- Lots of daylight reduces the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have shut off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Green building features

For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Repairs and recycling

Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

Buy two of the big three – board/skis, bindings, boots – from MEC and we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of snowboard and ski equipment sold at MEC. If you’re shopping online, take advantage of this deal by calling your store to arrange an appointment to mount your bindings before you visit. Our ski techs get busy, and we don’t want to let you down.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Ski services

Easter Monday

Store Pickup

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.



**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Safety measures
- Number of people inside stores is limited and controlled at all entrances.  
- Social distancing guidelines are posted outside and inside stores.
- Lineup areas have two-meter markers on the floor.
- Staff are required to wear personal protective equipment, including masks.
- Hand sanitizer stations are set up for members and staff to use.  
- Staff practice and promote everyday preventive behaviours including frequent hand washing and social distancing.  
- Common areas including doors, staircases, cash desks, and bike fitting areas are regularly disinfected.  
- Cleaning processes are enhanced for the entire store. 
- Restrictions on the type of clothing and gear members are permitted to try on.  
- Plexiglass shields are installed at cashier stations. 

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Welcome

Phone: Call(905) 333-8559

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:

### Local events
Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you see what’s happening in store, learn new outdoor skills from friendly staff instructors, and spark ideas for your next outdoor trip.

### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email bur_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Burlington for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Burlington opened in 2008, and was designed to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification. Compared to conventional retail buildings from the same period, it was made to be 70% more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- A photovoltaic system generates energy that’s fed into the power grid.
- The structure and envelope are designed to be disassembled and repurposed when the building reaches the end of its useful life.
- There are separate systems for heating, cooling and ventilation to maximize energy efficiency. For heating, there are high-efficiency gas boilers with radiant in-floor heating. For cooling, there’s an ice storage system that uses off-electricity. And for ventilation, there’s a fan-assisted displacement system with heat recovery.
- Many high clerestory windows at roofline reduce the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have turn down or off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).
- The combo of low-flow fixtures and grey water usage cuts potable water requirements by half.
- Captured precipitation (stormwater) provides water for all non-potable uses, like toilets and garden watering. Stormwater gets retained and infiltrated on site and won’t discharge water to municipal storm drains (except under extraordinary circumstances, like an enormous storm).
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance)

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Empty CO2 cartridges used for bike tires and avalanche safety.
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement – per rivet| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement – per strap| $15/unit|



Phone: 450.688.2712

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email lav_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email lav_aa@mec.ca at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits up to 35
- Equipment: wall-mounted TV with HDMI, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Laval for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with extensive use of wood on both the inside and outside of the building. Green building features will include a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Laval will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The Laval store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Laval.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

When you buy 2 or more of the big 3 items (skis, boots or bindings), we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of ski equipment sold at MEC, and proof of purchase is required. If you’re shopping online, you can take advantage of this deal by placing your order via phone at 1.888.847.0770 or 604.876.6221.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|



Phone: (250) 448-7637

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Kelowna for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Located in the heart of the city, MEC Kelowna is a prime location for Okanagan residents and visitors. The store opened in 2016 after doing extensive renovations to an existing building, which included updates to make the space more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- Significant updates to the roof insulation, since that’s a major spot to cut down on heat loss (just like people, buildings can lose a lot of heat through their highest point).
- Rooftop solar system pre-heats the hot water for the building to cut down on energy required.
- Upgraded to a high-efficiency HVAC to reduce energy use, and a heat recovery ventilator reduces the amount of energy required to heat the building.
- Furniture is certified by Level, a third-party sustainability certification program that looks at environmental and social impacts.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor coverings.
- To reduce energy consumption, we use predominately high-efficiency LED lighting controlled by auto dimmers and occupancy sensors in some areas, and on automated schedules elsewhere.
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations, and doesn’t need irrigation except for in drought conditions.
- Low-flow fixtures such as toilets, urinals and shower heads reduce overall water consumption.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Alpine| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (902) 421-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email hal_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Halifax for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC arrived in the Atlantic region in 2001 with our Halifax store. We moved into an existing building and used as many of the on-site structural elements as possible. While this store wasn’t built from the ground up, we still found ways to make small changes that add up to energy savings over time. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor and ceiling coverings.
- We’re replacing some of the conventional lighting with energy saving LED fixtures.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement| $15/unit|



Phone: (613) 729-2700

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Ottawa for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Ottawa opened in 2000. Before we started construction, there was a 40-year-old building on the site. We carefully dismantled it and then reused as much material as possible for our store. In the end, about 75% of the existing building (by weight) was incorporated into our store. To add to that accomplishment, this was the first retail building in Canada to comply with Canada’s C2000 Green Building Standard. Here are some of the green features:

- 80% of all the material travelled less than 500km to the site, which cuts down on transportation emissions. For example, rock excavated from the site was used in cladding.
- The floor is made from timber reclaimed from the St. Lawrence River and the previous building.
- During construction, we used panelized material and screwed connections, so the building can be taken apart, reused and recycled more easily when it’s reached the end of its life.
- One of the walls on the upper floor is infilled with bailed straw, a natural, renewable resource. (Check it out in the viewing portal.)
- Rock Wool insulation in other walls have 50% recycled content.
- The heating system uses a 94%-efficient natural gas hydronic boiler system to heat water.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- A skylight and roof monitor means we don’t need as much artificial lighting.
- To keep landscaping looking good, the irrigation system uses non-potable rainwater that gets gravity-fed to plants.
- Electric vehicle charging stations have reserved parking spots.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Recycling and repairs

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (604) 872-7858

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).





#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $


More than just a place to get gear – this store is a hub for your outdoor community. As a flagship, it’s home to a couple of cool extras, like a bouldering wall and a special space for events.

*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all community events for the moment. We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings.*

### Local events
Basecamp is our open-concept community space.  Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you

### Outdoor impact
This year, we’re  donating $1 million to Canadian outdoor organizations to teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces and grow the communities of people getting active outside. Funding  supports groups across Canada with avalanche safety training, outdoor programs for youth, conserving wilderness and more. [Learn more about community partnerships](/en/explore/outdoor-impact)

### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email van_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Vancouver for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC was born in Vancouver in 1971. Over the decades, we’ve moved through a number of spaces, and our current flagship store in Olympic Village was designed with sustainability from the ground up.

Here are some of the green features:

- **Wood is good**. In fact, when it’s a mass timber superstructure like this flagship store, wood is great. The timber is a composite, which means it doesn’t use old-growth sources. It’s also a renewable building material, stores carbon, and can easily be reused at the end of its life.
- **Drip, drip, drip**: It rains 150+ days a year here, so we make the most of it. The roof captures rainwater that funnels into an underground cistern to provide up to 80% of the water used for flushing toilets.
- **Less is more**: 30% less s’mores around the campfire? Not so good. 30% less energy used by a building? Brilliant. This space is designed to use almost one-third less energy than the standards set out by the national energy code for buildings.
- **A renewable day in the neighbourhood**: We’re connected to an innovative energy system that recovers heat from untreated urban wastewater (a sanitized way of saying sewage). It’s renewable and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.
- **Behind the scenes**: Some of the biggest energy savings come from things you can’t see: heating and cooling systems. The building envelope has more insulation than most and the HVAC units are high-efficiency.
- **Carbon neutral**: Like all MEC buildings, this space is operationally carbon neutral. We buy renewable energy certificates (wind and low-impact hydro) to match the electricity we use in this location.
- **Safe for salmon**: It’s official: this building is certified as Salmon-Safe, thanks to its progressive water management practices. It’s only the second Salmon-Safe urban site in BC – [MEC Head Office](/en/explore/head-office) was the first.

MEC aims to minimize environmental impacts and make our buildings healthy, inviting spaces. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Household batteries (no broken or corroded ones please)
- Bicycle tires and tubes
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Canada Day

Labour Day

Thanksgiving

Remembrance Day

Christmas Day

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.


Phone: (416) 340-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $20 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *





If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Toronto for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|



| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Friday

Sunday

Thursday

Christmas Eve

Boxing Day

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

New Years Eve

New Years Day

**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Phone: 519.896.4972

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike Fitting services are temporarily paused.

## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits 15–20, large windows, natural light
- Equipment: Wall-mounted TV with HDMI, projector with HDMI input, mobile projector display, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



MEC Kitchener is a new purpose-built store that has been constructed to our specifications. The store will join the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Kitchener will be no different. Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store will be operationally carbon neutral.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Green building features will include:

- A high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system
- A high R-value thermal barrier, allowing for superior insulation and energy savings.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow fixtures throughout the store.

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Kitchener. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



(418) 522.8884

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Welcome back! MEC in Quebec is open with limits to the number of people inside, plus reduced hours and services. We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

Note, we are not yet accepting returns in person. For the safety of MEC staff, we are accepting returns by mail only.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Québec City for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC’s new Quebec City store will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The new Quebec City store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC’s Quebec City store.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires and tubes – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|
| Base cleaning| $10|
| Base binder application| $10|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: 519.668.6657

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC London for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we have taken over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The completely refurbished building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Our new architectural design is featured in the building and improvements include a new roof with R40 thermal protection and a high-performance heating, cooling and ventilation system.

As part of MEC’s extensive green building program, the store operates on renewable energy.



Phone: (416) 221-0030

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Bike services

Every purchase at MEC supports your community. From helping people get to Rouge National Urban Park, to leading nature walks and teaching families how to plan their first camping trip, these local organizations and programs make getting outside just a little bit easier. MEC works with many groups in the North York community, including:



Never camped before? Don’t know where to start, or just want a refresher before your next trip? With support from MEC, [Parks Canada’s Learn to Camp program](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc) introduces you and your family to the basics of camping in Canada’s beautiful natural settings. Through overnight experiences and daytime workshops, you’ll learn camping skills like how to set up a tent, plan a camping menu and cook outdoors.



MEC and the Canadian Wilderness Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) are working together to create community support for conservation in Rouge National Urban Park and around the GTA. As a chapter of CPAWS, [Wildlands League](https://wildlandsleague.org/)’s mission is to protect the natural world that supports us with a connected network of wild lands and protected natural areas, and to promote recreation and resource use in ways that are sustainable for nature, communities and the economy.



MEC partners with [Parkbus](https://parkbus.ca/index) to help thousands of Canadians visit national and provincial parks from major cities across Canada – including a free shuttle from Toronto to Rouge National Urban Park. From day trips and family camping weekends to wilderness expeditions, Parkbus offers accessible transportation options to help city dwellers connect with nature.



[Healing in Nature: Bereavement Network](http://bereavementnetwork.ca/) (HNBN) is a non-for-profit project that provides grief support for youth and young adults through nature walks. They host walking groups on local trails for youth and young adults who are grieving, including newcomers to the community and refugees.



### Grants and donations
Our grant program has given tens of millions of dollars to conservation and the outdoor community in Canada – everything from product donations and advocacy projects to activity funding and land acquisitions. Find out if your community project is eligible and learn [how to apply for support](/en/explore/apply-grant-support).



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC North York for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.