Biking - Barnston Island - Surrey
by Dad
Activity:
Here's a gentle bike ride for the whole family with a bit of a
twist.
Barnston Island (bird's eye
view) sits in the Fraser River along the Surrey section of the
river. Barnston's a small island, (only about 2-3 square miles)
and
you get to it by taking a 5 minute ferry ride across Parson's Channel
to
the island. The ferry ride is free. Actually, it's not much
of a ferry but rather a tug with a small barge tied along side of
it.
The ferry ride makes this activity a bit of an adventure for small
children.
Barnston Island is flat with not much on there but farms. A road
circumvents the island, and takes about an hour by bike.
Age group:
All ages
Expense rating:
Free
:
Easy, flat bicycling.
:
Older kids may find the flat, circular road a bit unexciting.
Details:
To get to Barnston Island, go east on Highway 1 over the Port Mann
Bridge
and exit at 176th Street. Go north on 176th Street until you get
to 104th Avenue. Turn right on 104th Avenue and drive two shakes
and you should see the "Ferry". Phone (604) 501-5000 for more
information.
Area:
Surrey
Season:
All seasons
Educational highlights:
About 50 acres at the west side of the island has been designated as a
future park.
Fun for the adult?:
I have to admit taking the "ferry" is fun, and the island is a pretty
safe
place for kids to ride their bikes.