Bipolar Trail

Bipolar Trail

0.19 km
80m gain
0.10 hours
Level 3.0/5
3.0/5
Difficulty
Moderate
0.19
Distance
kilometres
80
Elevation Gain
metres
0.10
Est. Time
hours

About This Trail

Bipolar is a technical and fast-paced mountain bike trail on The Bluff in Smithers, BC. It is known for its mixed character, switching between smooth flowy sections and sudden technical features like roots, tight corners, and rocky drops—hence the “Bipolar” name. The trail keeps riders alert because the difficulty changes quickly throughout the descent, requiring constant adjustments in speed and line choice.

Leave No Trace

Please follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

Interactive Trail Map

Elevation Profile

Media (1)

Bipolar Trail
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Getting There

Directions

To reach Bipolar, travel from Smithers toward The Bluff recreation area via Highway 16 and follow the access roads into the Hudson Bay Mountain trail system. From the main Bluff parking area, ride up Bluff Road or connecting climb trails into the upper network. Bipolar is accessed through upper Bluff junctions and is often connected with other advanced trails such as Back in Black, Broken Axe, or Shining.

Parking

Parking is available at the main Bluff recreation area parking lot at the base of the trail system. Additional small pullouts may be found along access roads, but vehicles should not block gates or logging operations. Parking can fill up quickly during weekends and peak riding seasons.

Safety & Preparation

Bipolar includes rapidly changing terrain, alternating between smooth flow sections and technical features such as roots, rocks, and steep corners. Riders should remain alert at all times because trail difficulty can change suddenly. Wet conditions can make the trail significantly more slippery and unpredictable. Helmets are strongly recommended, and riders should be comfortable handling variable terrain at speed. This trail is best suited for experienced riders.

GPX downloaded