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By Victor Kaisar

Mountain Biking Study

Tourism Kamloops study reveals $18M in economic impacts from mountain biking

Sep 9, 2025 | 8:00 AM

KAMLOOPS — Tourism Kamloops says the results of a newly released study show that the city’s mountain bike trail networks are “worth protecting, improving and expanding.”

It says the new study by Larose Research & Strategy and Pacific Analytics Inc. showed mountain biking in Kamloops generated $13.6 million in total direct spending in 2024-25. Broken down further, it said $7 million was direct visitor spending while $6.6 million was spending by local residents.

It also said the survey highlighted an overall economic impact of $18 million across the Thompson-Nicola region, a “clear sign that the Kamloops trail networks are delivering real, year-round economic returns within city limits and beyond.”

“This report puts numbers to what we already know — Kamloops’ trail system is a powerful asset,” said Erik Fisher, CEO of Tourism Kamloops. “It drives meaningful economic return, strengthens our community and enhances quality of life for an abundance of people.”

“We’re seeing riders of all ages and skill levels, locals and out-of-towners, engaging with our trails in big numbers. That tells us these networks are worth protecting, improving and expanding.”

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According to Tourism Kamloops, the mountain bike trails welcomed more than 104,000 rider days per bike season. That includes 40,000 rider days from out-of-town visitors, which the organization says showcases the city’s growing reputation as a premier mountain biking destination.

“The feedback overwhelmingly points to Kamloops as a destination that delivers on both performance and experience,” Tourism Kamloops said in a statement.

It also noted riders expressed strong satisfaction with their experiences in Kamloops and 90 per cent of them said they would recommend the city as a mountain biking destination.

“They consistently praise the city’s diverse trail network, exceptional riding conditions and the convenience of parking and trailhead access,” Tourism Kamloops added.

“And the benefits go far beyond the ride [as] 97 per cent say mountain biking supports their mental health, while 94 per cent say it deepens their connection to nature and appreciation of the Kamloops landscape.”

Image Credit: Tourism Kamloops

In its statement, Tourism Kamloops said this study reinforces the value of initiatives like the Freeride Fund, which it launched this year to support trail maintenance across the community, in partnership with local trail associations.

“The campaign, grounded in Kamloops’ rich mountain biking culture, helps ensure these spaces continue to thrive for riders today and for generations to come,” Tourism Kamloops added.