Topp Notch Bike Trail

The Topp Notch trail is a moderately difficult trail with some technical features, so be sure that you have a fair amount of bike handling skills before choosing this one. When you link this trail with Return of the Jedi, creatingfull circuit, you will need to be proficient in climbing. This is reserved for intermediate riders and older children only. There are many other trails in the area suitable for beginners.

This trail is one of the most exciting in the Tunnel Bench area as it is made up of some technical wood features, berms, and excellent single track descents. The trail was entirely hand-built over three years by volunteers. It is named after local legend Doug Topp who was the former president of the Bow Valley Mountain Bike Alliance. The best part of this trail is that it makes an excellent circuit that you can ride over and over all day long.

From Tunnel Mountain Road, you’ll find a 0.1mi side trail leading into the woods across from Otter Lane behind the Buffalo Mountain Lodge. This trail will connect to the signed trail for Topp Notch. Otherwise, you can take Tunnel Mountain Drive around Buffalo Mountain Lodge to the signed trail entrance where Topp Notch, Star Wars, and Return of the Jedi all meet.

Begin the trail with what the bike community calls a “squirrel catcher.” This is a technical feature meant to deter beginner riders from choosing this trail. If you can’t make the first feature, take the hint and turn around for the moderate neighbouring trail, Star Wars. If you are comfortable with this feature, keep going and enjoy the exhilarating descent.

The first kilometre of the trail features some rolling ups and downs laced with wooden bridges and berms. This section keeps riders alert before the main descent that blasts through the forest. You’ll come across technical switchbacks, pumpy berms, and exciting straightaways throughout the following two kilometres. This trail is extremely flowy and enjoyable if you can handle your bike. Expect to lap this over and over before heading home.

You’ll find that all the features are incredibly well-built and wide enough to accommodate intermediate blunders without any disasters. The final kilometre of the Topp Notch section winds down to a mellow grade and rolls right into Return of the Jedi, where you will begin your climb back to Tunnel Mountain Drive.

Return of the Jedi features switchbacks and a moderate grade that lead you back to the bench. Take another trip down Topp Notch if you are ready for a few laps.