Riders told to keep out

Mountain bikers are grinding their gears over the closure of popular trails on Vancouver's North Shore.

Riders and hikers were surprised to find no trespassing signs on several trails this week.

The signs warn that unauthorized access is prohibited, despite the area being a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.

​"This pretty much shuts down the entire trail network on Mount Seymour," North Vancouver Coun. Mathew Bond told CTV. "So people are really concerned. Businesses are concerned. This is a big impact on our local economy."

The land is owned by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and the province and is not a park.

Bond said CMHC met with district staff in June to discuss risk and safety management on the trails.

Hikers and riders have used the area for decades, but no reason was given for the decision.

"This is people's livelihood, being outside, using these trails. It's part of our identity on the North Shore."

The North Shore Mountain Bike Association is seeking more information on the closure, but in the meantime is urging members to obey the signs.

Rick Loader, co-owner of Lynn Valley Bikes, said riders are ticked off.

"I think they're probably going to meet a fair bit of resistance," he said.

Some riders are simply  ignoring the signs.

– with files from CTV Vancouver