Coastal Rides Brings Winter Rideshare Services to Revelstoke
Ski town set to welcome flexible side hustle and safer transport option this season
Revelstoke is gearing up for a smoother and safer winter commute as B.C.-based rideshare company Coastal Rides plans to launch its service in the area. The company, founded in Sechelt in 2020 by Ryan Staley, has already made a mark in small-town British Columbia. Now, it’s eyeing Revelstoke—known for its ski culture and outdoor crowd—as its next big move.
The rideshare startup has successfully rolled out operations in towns like Comox Valley, Tofino, Campbell River, and Fort St. John. With demand often exceeding supply in ski resort communities, Staley believes Revelstoke’s existing taxi and shuttle services just aren’t keeping up.
“We do see that as a bit of a gap,” he said. “They’re probably not keeping up with the demand that’s there already.”
A Safe Ride and a Side Hustle for Ski Bums
Coastal Rides will offer locals and tourists a safe, reliable option—especially valuable during winter evenings when demand spikes. Plus, the service promises a flexible income opportunity for those working seasonal jobs, including ski bums and resort staff.
Longtime driver John Leonard, who will help oversee operations in Revelstoke, believes it’s an ideal match.
“It’s the perfect thing for ski bummers,” he said. “It’s a totally reliable, customer-friendly service.”
Leonard predicts the busiest times will be around dinner, but coverage during the day will be equally critical. With just two or three drivers to start, the service plans to scale based on demand.
App-Based Model with a Local Touch
Although not connected to Uber, Coastal Rides mirrors many of its tech-savvy features—an app-based system, cashless payments, and even an upcoming AI-powered voice interface for bookings. The local advantage? Drivers keep 73% of the fare, and most spend as little as $14–$15 for 100 kilometres of gas in a town this size.
While drivers cover their fuel and maintenance, the company may assist with commercial licensing on a case-by-case basis.
“We don’t have billions in venture capital,” Staley said, “but we believe in supporting local drivers.”
Building Community, One Ride at a Time
What makes this expansion even more personal is that it’s backed by community relationships. Staley chose Revelstoke partially due to a close friend who lives there, and Leonard plans to talk with hotels to encourage their guests to use the service.
For those interested in joining, the criteria are simple: a Class 4 license and a vehicle under 10 years old. Don’t own a car? Staley and Leonard have spare wheels ready.
“This needs very little infrastructure to run well,” Leonard added. “It just keeps building.”
From the Slopes of Banff to the Streets of Revelstoke
Staley, who once worked in Banff and Lake Louise, understands seasonal job culture. “Everyone’s got a second job,” he said, and this service is built to work around that lifestyle.
Even part-time drivers could earn $500+ a night during the peak season. With flexibility, decent earnings, and a mission rooted in community service, Coastal Rides is shaping up to be a win-win for Revelstoke.
Prospective drivers can reach out at info@coastalrides.ca to apply before the season kicks off.
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