Our Bike to Shop Guide for Austin Heights in Coquitlam
August 14, 2024
HUB Cycling is challenging you to shop by bike and explore new neighbourhoods this August.
Located in the heart of Southwest Coquitlam is a commercial strip full of character and charm. Spend a day by bike and explore the independent shops, professional services, and great selection of restaurants in the Austin Heights neighbourhood.
If you plan to bike to transit, Lougheed Skytrain Station, beside The City of Lougheed Shopping Centre is a 15-20-minute bike ride away. However, be prepared for some uphill riding. As locals say, it's not called Blue Mountain for nothing! If ascent riding isn't your style, take your bike on one of the many buses that service the neighbourhood. Watch this helpful video if you are unsure how to get your bike on a bus.
You'll need to rely on street parking in the area, so check out our neighbourhood map for details on rack locations, and remember to lock your bike securely.
There are several bike racks outside Safeway along Austin Avenue. Lock your bike up and explore the many independent businesses across the street. Grab a coffee and homemade pastry from Coffee + Vanilla Café, and pick up a gift for a loved one or yourself from Artisan Gifts & Flowers before perusing the offerings at Reflection Books - a one-stop shop for crystals, tarot, jewelry and incense.
One block north, you will find more bike racks on Ridgeway Avenue at the corners of Nelson Street and Marmount Street. Stroll down Ridgeway Avenue and grab a bubble tea from Soul Cup Cafe before stopping by Blue Mountain Produce. They have a refill station for cleaning products to help you reduce packaging and stock fresh produce and products from local producers. Pick up supplies for a picnic and explore some of the fantastic nearby nature trails and parks.
Just a short ride away from the shops is Blue Mountain Park, which includes scenic walkways, sculpture gardens and a playground. Or head east along the King Albert Greenway to Mundy Park and enjoy the views of Como Creek from the pedestrian bridge. If your bike needs a quick tune-up, stop by the bike maintenance station at Poirier Sport & Leisure Complex, which has all the basic tools you need to change a flat tire or adjust brakes and derailleurs.