Cycling in Ontario
ontariobybike.ca
directionontario.ca
EXPLORING ONTARIO by bike www.ontariobybike.ca Ontario By Bike supports a growing network of businesses that welcome cyclists across the province. As a cyclist you can easily find information on road routes and trail rides that best suit your interests and abilities, and can more easily plan for a fun cycling experience at countless destinations around Ontario, Canada. Hundreds of certified bicycle friendly locations, including a variety of overnight accommodation choices, cafes, restaurants, wineries and attractions have made special provisions and met certification criteria to enhance your ride experience. Whether you are out for a day trip, overnight stay, weekend getaway or a longer multi-day cycling tour, stop by and say hi. Depending on the type of location, cyclists can expect secure covered overnight bike storage, access to a basic bicycle repair tool set if required (at certified accommodations only), healthy and local food choices (where food is served), shared cycling information. At various attractions, cyclists can gain free entry to rest areas with water and washrooms.
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If you are looking for new cycling routes and inspiration to get out there on two wheels, let us motivate you further to hop on your bike and get to one of the many great places to cycle in Ontario. Ontario By Bike provides cyclists with easy access to many useful resources in addition to certifying bicycle-friendly businesses. Quickly link to regional cycling maps with a variety of route details and directions, find a bike tour and scroll through a wide array of cycling events. You can even make use of our self-guided ride guides to help you create your own independent and unique experience. The Ontario By Bike Network (formerly the Welcome Cyclists Network) is a program of Transportation Options, a non-profit organization that has been successfully initiating programs that support sustainable travel and tourism in Ontario since 1992. We work with a range of regional and provincial partners to bring you these programs and support the growth of a number of innovative sectors. We are very pleased to share with you the information included in this publication and are thrilled that in 2014 we can offer both a French and English version of the Cycling in Ontario / Le vélo en Ontario guide. Connect for further resources and information on our website and stay up-to-date by signing up for our e-newsletter or liking our Facebook page. Look for our Ontario Cycle Tourism Information Centre at many cycling events and shows, stop by and say hi in person or send us tales of your cycling escapades. Ride safe and enjoy Ontario By Bike. www.ontariobybike.ca info@ontariobybike.ca 1-866-701-2774 / 416-827-2774
The VIA logo is a trademark owned by VIA Rail Canada Inc. Le logo VIA est une marque de commerce propriété de VIA Rail Canada inc.
Transportation O ptions An agency of the Government of Ontario. Un organisme du gouvernement de l’Ontario.
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DIRECTION ONTARIO, FOR THE LOVE OF ONTARIO www.directionontario.ca Direction Ontario ensures that tourism in Ontario is developed and promoted in the French markets, particularly in French parts of Ontario and in Quebec. The non-profit organization shares its passion for Ontario tourist products by publishing annual guides and promotional brochures on unique featured products that are “Yours to Discover”. Ontario is an exceptional tourist destination where good wines are produced, local products are passionately and brilliantly showcased, and where one can experience as many outdoor adventures as days out in the city. Our towns and cities wonderfully display both their modern and historic natures, and blend with our parks and forests. Culture and adventure: it’s clear that Ontario is an exceptional destination, especially for cyclists! Our cycling network is spreading, thanks to passionate cyclists for whom safety, access to services and environment count. Direction Ontario and Ontario by Bike have partnered to create this brochure so it could reach and benefit a larger audience. A French version of the brochure is available and is adapted to suit the French markets. © Julianna Harbec
From uncrowded paved roads to mountain biking trails that lead to nowhere and back, you can find it all here in the Ottawa Valley.
TheOttawaValley
OttawaValleyTravel
Photo: BORCA
Plan your cycling adventure at www.OttawaValley.travel/Cycle
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Table of Contents
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EXPLORING ONTARIO BY BIKE 2 DIRECTION ONTARIO, FOR THE LOVE OF ONTARIO 3 GETTING THERE - RIDE MORE, DRIVE LESS 5 TOP OFF-ROAD AND FAMILY FUN TRAIL RIDES 6-7 BITE-SIZED RIDES FOR KIDS 6 BEST OF BIG CITY CYCLING 8 RIDE THE SHORELINE 9 EXPLORE ONTARIO BY BIKE MAP 10-11 ROAD RIDING AND TOP TRAINING AREAS 13 PEDAL THROUGH HISTORY - EXPLORING CULTURE BY BIKE 14 SIP, SNACK & CYCLE YOUR WAY THROUGH ONTARIO 16-17 CYCLE AND STAY THIS SEASON 18 TRACKS, TRAILS AND TECHNICAL TERRAIN 19
Heading off on a road trip? Start at the CAA website for all kinds of travel-related resources:
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Print detailed maps of major cities, national parks and over 300 popular destinations across North America.
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BIKE ASSIST SERVICES Whether you are biking light or have forgotten that occasionally a bike breaking down or getting a at can happen enroute, assistance is just a call away in south central Ontario. CAA’s roadside assistance service is now available to members, allowing bikes to be ďŹ xed either on site or by providing a ride to the nearest bike store and repair location. Cyclists can also access information on popular cycling routes, maps, accommodation information and even tutorial repair videos, simply by downloading the CAA Bike Assist App to your smartphone. Offering many free features to the public, roadside assistance and other advanced features are available to CAA members only. (caasco.com/roadtrip)
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Get the latest information on hotels, attractions, restaurants and more, for destinations around the world.
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XXX DBBTDP DPN SPBEUSJQ Some conditions apply. The products and services featured are part of the Member offerings of CAA South Central Ontario. ÂŽ CAA, CAA logo and CAA Dollars trademarks are owned by, and use is granted by, the Canadian Automobile Association. Life-side Assistance is a registered trademark of CAA South Central Ontario.
GETTING THERE - RIDE MORE, DRIVE LESS Did you know you can access some of Ontario’s top cycling destinations by rail? There are a number of easy options to hop on board a train with or without your bike to enjoy a day trip, weekend getaway or a longer multi-day cycling tour. Why not consider riding one way and taking the train back, or cycling out with a loop back to the train station of your choice. Cyclists will find bike rentals and tours in an increasing number of towns and cities, which are easily connected to upon arrival at your destination. (biketrain.ca)
fitted bike racks on the lower floors of several carriages, this service allows for dozens of bikes to be easily rolled on and rolled off. Additional rail routes to and from Toronto, including Kitchener, Milton, Barrie, and running as east as Oshawa, also allow for bikes, but in more limited numbers. All GO buses have front loading bike racks adding additional possibilities for post-summer season options. (gotransit.com)
Bike Train
There is no need to travel by car when a relaxing train trip can bring you to many great ride locations where bike rentals are an easy possibility. Many destinations now have bike rentals and tour companies that will allow you to get onto two wheels and start pedaling. Both Ottawa and Toronto have BIXI public bike share programs with many automated rental stations located throughout the cities. There are also many independent bike rental stores that can set you up for longer rental periods and suggest guided or self-guided tour options.
If you are looking to travel with your own bike, VIA Rail can get you to and from Toronto, Windsor and Montreal on trains offering baggage car service with bikes checked-in as luggage. Stops in-between major centers are possible at larger stations including Chatham, London, Aldershot, Cobourg, Belleville, Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall. (viarail.ca) In the summer, travelling with your bike between Toronto and Niagara couldn’t be easier. With a special train service offered by GO Transit on weekends and holidays, these double-decker trains run several times a day during the summer season. With retro-
Bike Rentals and Tours
With a little research into travel timetables and conditions, leaving your car at home is a very real and exciting possibility opening up many more ride options across the province.
Photos © Goh Iromoto 2013
Leave your car at home and cycle the Lake Erie Waterfront Trail from Windsor to Fort Erie and on to Niagara Falls using the BIKE TRAIN. For more trip planning information visit www.ontariossouthwest.com/cycling.
Brantford Niagara
London
Waterfront Trail/Sentier riverain Canada-U.S. Border Crossing location Lake Erie Section
Connecting Trail/Sentier de liaison
Waterfront Trail www.waterfronttrail.org
Chrysler Canada Greenway Seaway Trail Lynn Valley Trail/Waterford Heritage Trail Bike Train Route
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TOP OFF-ROAD AND FAMILY FUN TRAIL RIDES If you are not comfortable riding on roads and would prefer a more relaxing, car-free cycling experience, there are an incredibly large number of great trail riding options around the province. Many are rail trails, following a at straight line through interesting countryside or along picturesque waterways, with plenty of options to stop and marvel at natural wonders and local area attractions. Ride conditions can vary from one trail to another. Some trails are fully paved paths, while others have hard packed stone surfaces. When on multi-use trails, consideration must be given to sharing the trail with a variety of other nonmotorized users. The following are our top picks and recommendations for leisurely off-road rides across the province:
Georgian Trail Follow the stunning blue waters of Georgian Bay while riding this 26km trail that stretches from Collingwood to Meaford. Offering great views of the Escarpment, this pretty tree-lined route gives riders a great sample of the many attractions and activities in Grey County. Cyclists have easy access to Blue Mountain Village via an on-road bike lane connector or can explore the shops, cafes, galleries, and boutiques in Meaford and Thornbury. Stop along the way at a variety of the trailside farms and country store stops. (georgiantrail.ca)
for the Kid s
Bite-Sized Rides
Choose to ride a portion of any of these off-road trails and bring some young ones along. Kids love the freedom of riding a bike, and pedaling along on a non-motorized trail offers real peace of mind and a safer cycling experience for all. Other suggested bite-sized rides with fun activities along the way include:
Burlington
- Stop and play at the sandy beach and shoreline parks along the Waterfront Trail. Walk out on top of the water along the Brant Street Pier. Ice cream and coffee cafes are located near the pretty waterside boulevard with further amenities located along the beach strip.
Brockville
- Enjoy a ride on the parkland promenade along the St. Lawrence River with playground stops, passing freighter ships and the new Aquatarium where kids and adults alike can have fun learning more about the seaway.
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Chrysler Greenway
Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail
An idyllic ride awaits cyclists along this 50km rail trail, which starts from the south end of Windsor, ending in Leamington. Near the natural wonders of Point Pelee National Park, Pelee Island and Lake Erie, the flat terrain through agricultural lands allows for easy access to a growing number of vineyards, which are just a few of the added attractions enroute. (erca.org/chrysler-canadagreenway)
Roll through scenic agricultural lands and pristine wetlands and connect to local communities located near this 72km long, stone dust rail trail. There is now an additional 23km trail connecting into the city of Ottawa. As the central spine and start point for additional road routes, useful maps provide information on suggested trail access points, parking locations and other amenities. (sentiertrail.ca)
Thames River Parkway
Ottawa
Head out with family and friends for a picturesque ride along the Thames River Parkway. This scenic 40km paved, multi-use path follows the twists and turns of the Thames River while cutting through London centre, making it all the more easy to access trails and other city attractions nearby. (londontourism.ca)
One of the largest recreational path systems in North America traverses the city of Ottawa and Canada’s capital region, providing over 300km of off-road cycling paths. Following rivers and waterways, linking parkland and the city centre, these trails also connect to the Quebec side of the Ottawa River and the nearby communities of Hull and Gatineau. (capitalcyclingmap.ca)
Niagara River Recreational Trail This 56km paved trail follows the Niagara River from Niagara-onthe-Lake to Fort Erie and is off-road except for a small segment around Niagara Falls. With countless attractions enroute, plan to stop along the way and extend your day. Riverside picnics, local wineries, botanical gardens, a butterfly conservatory, historic forts and the action at the Falls are only some of the fantastic experiences awaiting cyclists. Riders can park and ride, take the Bike Train or rent a bike from a trail-side kiosk or nearby. (niagaraparksnature.com/things-to-do)
Ottawa River © ottawatourism.ca
Niagara-on-the-Lake © Ontario Tourism
niagara parks
Scenic Niagara River Recreation Trail
• 53-km mixed use trail follows the majestic Niagara River, Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake • connects quaint wine country villages, historic War of 1812 locations, thrilling and cyclist friendly Falls attractions • convenient cyclist friendly, farm fresh restaurants and food options en route • access to the southern terminus of the Bruce Trail at Queenston and spectacular hiking trails at the Niagara Glen • part of the Trans Canada Trail and Greater Niagara Circle Route
find out more at: niagaraparks.com 7
BEST OF BIG CITY CYCLING There is no better way to get to know an urban centre intimately than by hoping on a bike and pedaling through neighbourhoods, exploring downtown and beyond. Every year city centres across Ontario are adding more bike lanes, improving bikeway networks and creating more connections for cyclists to get from point A to point B, allowing riders to meander through city streets, accessing incredible parks and trail systems.
Ottawa Get to and from many of Ottawa’s top attractions using a combination of bike facilities, including over 280km on-road and 300km off-road routes. From the Parliament Buildings, Rideau Canal, museums and the bustling Byward Market, roll out to explore interesting neighbourhoods such as The Glebe and Preston Street. Be sure to include Laurier Avenue’s segregated bike lane on your ride.
Toronto Toronto’s bikeway network extends over 560km, offering a variety of bike lanes, shared road, signed routes and off-road trails crisscrossing the city. The city’s first cycle track was opened in 2013, making for a more safe and pleasant ride from Bloor Street to the waterfront along Sherbourne Street. City Hall © City of Toronto
Windsor The multi-use trail along the Detroit River is a great way to get a feel for the city. Enjoy city views on both sides of the River and connect to the longer Lake Erie Waterfront Trail. Explore downtown using a combo of on-road cycling and shared bike lanes. Cycling to Little Italy on Erie Street or nearby Gillies Street allows riders to experience the timeless charm of Walkerville village.
Other Urban Centers Both the cities of London and Kitchener-Waterloo have a growing number of bike lanes and signed on-road facilities in city centres, branching out to the nearby countryside and connecting to a variety of trails. Most urban centres are actively adding bike lanes and trails, intended as active transportation and recreation routes for residents, but make for great cycling for visitors too. Start planning your next big city ride today.
Windsor © windsoreats.com
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Windsor © Ontariobybike.ca
Ottawa © City of Ottawa
RIDE THE SHORELINE Cyclists can follow the fully signed and well mapped Waterfront Trail, from Ontario’s southwest, Windsor and the Detroit River, all the way to the province’s eastern edge, through Cornwall to the Quebec border. With over 1,400km to explore, cyclists will follow the shorelines of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, stopping in countless communities along the way and can enjoy either shorter day trips or multi-day rides. Primarily on-road, with a mix of quiet country roads and residential streets, there are also many stretches of beautiful off-road trails through conservation areas, wetlands and parks. Slow down and stop to enjoy the sandy beaches and great lake swimming. Get a taste of local fare at unique cafes and food stops, and be sure to explore more in the three wine regions the trail crosses. With many cultural and heritage sites enroute, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse oneself and learn more about new surroundings. Popular for long distance cycle touring, relatively short distances between towns and cities means that you are never far from the services and amenities important on multi-day rides. Most regions on both lakes have businesses participating in the Ontario By Bike Network, and are well accustomed to welcoming cyclists. Make one-direction rides all the more convenient by accessing trailheads and many start/end locations using the Bike Train.
Waterfront Trail © Goh Iromoto
Detailed maps, community profiles, suggested ride itineraries and information on trail events at: waterfronttrail.org
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ROAD RIDING AND TOP TRAINING AREAS With endless kilometers of quiet, smooth riding country roads, it is no surprise that increasing numbers of both amateur road cyclists and professionals are hitting the pavement and clocking some serious distances on training rides, cycling events and competitive races across Ontario.
Kawartha Lakes Cycling across the Kawartha Lakes area, you will easily spot groups of cyclists on club rides and journeys out from lakeside cottages. Enjoy the pristine forests and lakeside roadways that make the area an excellent ride destination. With routes named Country Ramble and Four Village Tour, cycling in the Kawarthas should be on your road riding radar. (explorekawarthalakes.com)
Ottawa Valley and Prescott-Russell Located both north and south of Ottawa, you’ll find fantastic road riding. Fairly flat with sections offering scenic agricultural lands, tree-lined lakeside and river roads, there are many quiet country routes of varying distances. The region gives serious cyclists no excuse to not pedal hard. (ottawavalley.travel/bike and sentiertrail.ca)
ADVENTURE PLUS With so much to experience, really exploring Ontario by bike sometimes means parking your two wheels. Why not add onto your cycling trip with some of these great Ontario adventure and outdoor experiences! If you’re cycling the Waterfront Trail this summer, stop into Brockville and take a dip in the St. Lawrence River. Scuba diving and dive spots off Brockville are getting worldwide recognition. Considered some of the best fresh water diving in the world, this section of the St. Lawrence boasts fantastic underwater visibility and over 200 shipwrecks, with some dating back to the War of 1812. (brockvilletourism.com/diving) Step back in time and into Bonnechere Caves, where visitors can discover the fossil-lined cave system in the Ottawa Valley. Located just outside Eganville, Ontario, this experience brings the explorer out in everyone. (bonnecherecaves.com) Use Blue Mountain as your base camp and spend a weekend getting your adrenaline fix. From mountain biking, rope courses, zip lines and mountain coaster rides to fun filled daylong pedal and paddle outings, the area has you covered for outdoor adventures. (bluemountain.ca) Hiking the Niagara Escarpment is a quintessential Ontario experience. Spend an afternoon setting out from Queenston Heights Park and walk along the first stretch of Canada’s longest footpath (brucetrail.org). The Bruce Trail starts in Niagara and gives cyclists a great reason to get off their bike (as bikes are prohibited on the Bruce Trail). For a rugged walk down into the gorge and along the river’s edge, consider ducking down into Niagara Glen. If you’re looking to take a break from climbing the Escarpment hills by bike, why not try rock climbing them instead? Metcalf Rock, located in Grey County, gives thrill seekers the chance to both climb and explore the caves and crevices that make up the northern expanses of the Niagara Escarpment. Nearby, Old Baldy is more suited to expert climbers. (visitgrey.ca) Go from pedal to paddle in the whitewater capital of Canada. Some of Canada’s best white water rafting exists along the Ottawa River and whether you’re looking for rugged and rough or a gentle flat water ride, there are a number of outfitters located between Renfrew and Pembroke. (ottawavalley.travel)
Prescott-Russell © Barnyard Studio du coin
Blue Mountain and Grey County With over 3,500 cyclists riding the annual Centurion Blue Mountain event, don’t be surprised to see small and large groups training in the area throughout the season. With tough Escarpment climbs and endless backcountry roads, there are plenty of mapped road routes to choose from. For those looking for shorter distances, or easier ride days, new recreational-length road routes are also available. (visitgrey.ca/cycling)
Looking for a thrill? This summer, be sure to head to Long Point on the north shore of Lake Erie. Adventure experiences are popping up all over the area offering something for everyone. Fly through the treetops on a world-class zip-line or glide through a designated World Biosphere Reserve on a Zodiac boat safari. More adventures await within the Carolinian Forests of Southern Ontario, such as foraging mushrooms and learning about this unique ecosystem. (lpfun.ca) Get into nature at the Treetop Adventure Park at Boler Mountain just outside of London. From rope courses to swinging bridges, from pirate nets to Tarzan swings, you’ll find enough to keep the kids monkeying around the whole day. (bolermountain.com)
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PEDAL THROUGH HISTORY BRING YOUR
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EXPLORING CULTURE BY BIKE Catch a glimpse of living heritage as you cycle into the delightful village of St. Jacobs. Beaming with history and tradition, visitors can now explore the rich Mennonite culture of the region by bike. Head out into the Mennonite country-side of Woolwich Township on the Mennonite Country Block Tour, a 19km, mostly paved route that begins in village of St. Jacobs. Considered one of the first Mennonite settlements in Ontario, cyclists will roll along the countryside, passing working Mennonite farms, local bakeries and country general stores. (stjacobs.com/outdoor) Woolwich Township © explorewaterlooregion.ca Cycle along the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America, the Rideau Canal. Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site offers 15 km of off-road riding along the Rideau Canal’s western and eastern pathways in Ottawa, plus countless kilometers of road riding routes further south. Connecting the cities of Ottawa, and Kingston, on Lake Ontario, the canal system was originally constructed in 1832 for military defense; however, nowadays the waterway is primarily used for pleasure craft. (rideauheritageroute.ca) Explore the blossoms by bike at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington, Ontario. Travelling with a bike to Canada’s largest botanical gardens has never been easier with the Bike Train or GO Transit bus service (biketrain.ca). Cyclists disembark at Aldershot Station with their bike and quickly access bike lanes heading west along Plains Road straight to the Gardens. (rbg.ca)
With two bike friendly cars running on summer weekends, your Niagara cycling getaway starts on GO.
Pedal through history along one of the Canadian stretches of the Underground Railway Bicycle Route (adventurecycling.org) that starts in Windsor and follows the Lake Huron shoreline to Owen Sound. An incredibly scenic ride, the route also satisfies history buffs. Owen Sound was known as the final stop on the Underground Railway and continues to have a rich history of African Canadian culture. Be sure to stop at Uncle Tom’s Cabin located in Dresden, Ontario enroute. (heritagetrust.on.ca)
www.gotransit.com/Niagara 416 869 3200 1 888 GET ON GO (438 6646) TTY 1 800 387 3652 Pour plus de renseignements, veuillez visiter le site gotransit.com ou composer un des numéros ci-dessus.
Spend the day taking in the rich art community as you explore south eastern Ontario. Head out on the Brockville ART Trail (brockvilletourism.com) and connect with painters, woodworkers, sculptors, and jewelers along the way. After a day of visiting studios and galleries by bike, spend an evening at the Brockville Arts Centre and catch one of the many great performances held throughout the year. (brockvilleartscentre.com)
Durham © Richard Claxton-Oldfield
Kawartha Lakes © Fred Thornhill Photography
Prescott-Russell © Barnyard Studio du coin
Kissing Bridge © explorewaterlooregion.ca
Oshawa Cycling club © Richard Claxton-Oldfield
OUR PATHS CROSS MANY LANDMARKS With over 180 kilometeres of paved recreational pathways winding past national landmarks and scenic natural settings, a dedicated cross-town cycling lane, plus challenging routes and mountain bike trails in nearby Gatineau Park, Canada’s Capital is an unparalleled cycling destination. Bring your bike or rent one here and get it in gear!
View our online video introduction to Ottawa Cycling Experiences Plan your Ottawa cycling expedition on Google Maps! Ottawa’s cycling network is completely mapped.
WWW.OTTAWATOURISM.CA/CYCLING
1-888-OTTAWA-8 15
SIP, SNACK & CYCLE YOUR WAY THROUGH ONTARIO Satisfy your hunger with great culinary experiences best served by bike Treat your palette to local fare served fresh at London, Ontario’s Covent Garden Market. Taste some of the region’s best homemade soups, baked goods, and perogies! Cyclists can access the market, and the heart of London, using the city’s bike lanes and signed bike routes that connect the Thames River Pathway to the city centre. (coventmarket.com) While most are familiar with Ontario wines from the Niagara and Prince Edward County, head to Ontario’s southern most region, along the north shore of Lake Erie, and into Essex County. This wine region has some of the longest growing seasons in the country and cycling experiences are front and centre. Enjoy the award winning Wine Trail Rides or if wine isn’t your cup of tea, consider the half-day Bike and Beer Tour. Put a focus on local food and wine with these pedal-powered culinary experiences. (windsoreats.com/wineride) Essex County © Farm Dog Cycle
MORE PEDAL POWER TO YOU.
If you prefer two wheels over four, Windsor Essex is the place for you. Surrounded by lakes and rivers, our diverse region offers kilometer after kilometer of winding scenic bike routes and trails. From Lakeshore to Leamington, our pristine Waterfront Trail is filled with attractions and adventures at every turn. Pedal your way through coastal vineyards, take a winery tour and sample our award-winning vintages, and explore significant historical landmarks all along the way. Then, refuel with a sumptuous gourmet meal as the sun goes down and stay the night at a charming bed and breakfast. Whether it’s a day, weekend or longer, this is one ride you’ll never want to end. For more information, including maps, bike-friendly accommodations, restaurants and more, visit www.waterfronttrail.org
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visitwindsoressex.com 1-800-265-3633
Compete If you find yourself cycling the renowned Kawartha Trans Canada Trail (kawarthatranscanadatrail.ca), stop into Lindsay for an experience best served chilled. Acting as the gateway to cottage country, the historic main street and town center will give cyclists the opportunity to rest and reward themselves with legendary Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream. If you think a double scoop would be too much, try a single. If a double scoop doesn’t faze you, try Death By Chocolate. (kawarthadairy.com) Take a break from the incredible trail and road riding found throughout Prescott-Russell and head to charming Vankleek Hill, the ‘Gingerbread Capital of Ontario’. Boasting some of the provinces best Victorian-style architecture, Vankleek Hill is also home to Beau’s All Natural Brewery. What better way to end a day of cycling than sitting on a patio, sipping on a local craft beer! (beaus.ca) Fall in love with the Kitchener-Waterloo region, as you ride into St. Jacobs along the Mill Race Trail (also known as Lover’s Lane). While there’s no such thing as a short visit to St. Jacobs Farmer’s Market, cyclists can quickly satisfy their appetite at any one of the hundreds of vendors on hand every Thursday and Saturday, 7:00am to 3:30pm. If you’re looking to take in some of the fall foliage, consider an autumn ride through the beautiful countryside and stop in for a Bavarian pint at the world’s third largest Oktoberfest celebration. (oktoberfest.ca)
Explore
SOME OF THE BEST CYCLING IN THE PROVINCE Kawartha Lakes offers some of the best cycling experiences in the province. Test your limits or take the family. Whether you prefer mountain biking, touring or racing, there's a trail that's just right for you. For more information on Kawartha Lakes Cycle Tours, please visit www.explorekawarthalakes.com or contact our tourism office at 1-866-397-6673 or the Kawartha Lakes Cycling Club at www.kawarthacyclingclub.com.
city.kawarthalakes.on.ca St. Jacobs Market © explorewaterlooregion.ca
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Stop Spinning Your Wheels Meet, Play and Stay in Beautiful Burlington
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CYCLE AND STAY THIS SEASON Since 2010, The Ontario By Bike Network (ontariobybike.ca), previously the Welcome Cyclist Network, has certiďŹ ed a total of 330 accommodation locations across the province, as ‘bicyclefriendly’. The program has developed a set of standards and criteria aiming to improve your cycling experience throughout Ontario. From B&B’s to campgrounds, country inns to hotels with fantastic amenities, in 2014 cyclists can rest assured they’ll be well looked after following a day of riding. Ride the Greater Niagara Circle Route and let some of Ontario’s most picturesque landscapes unfold before you. Offering cyclists over 140km of paved, off-road trails, this route links communities through some of Ontario’s best fruit and wine growing region. For those looking to take in the entire route, enjoy the innovative Cycle and Stay Niagara network that has seen 14 independent bed and breakfast businesses partner to offer cyclists bicyclefriendly accommodation. With luggage transfer services, secure and covered bike storage and onsite bike repair kits, cycling and staying in Niagara just got a whole lot better! (cycleandstayniagara.com)
Guesthouse at Eugenia Falls Š visitgrey.ca
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The 15 bed and breakfasts that make up Cycle n’ Stay South Georgian Bay will help cyclists connect to the Village of Blue Mountain and the towns of Meaford Thornbury, Collingwood and Nottawa with charming bicycle-friendly accommodations. With plenty of road and trail riding options to plan a multi-day tour, those cyclists travelling light can utilize the luggage transfer service that is available at all properties for a nominal fee. 2014 saw an expansion south to include multiple bed and breakfasts in the communities of Dunedin, Avening, Stayner and Creemore. (cyclenstaysouthgeorgianbay.ca)
Mountain Biking in Ontario
TRACKS, TRAILS AND TECHNICAL TERRAIN With the growing popularity of mountain biking in the province, there is also an increasing need for maintenance and trail development. We’re taking this opportunity to thank the volunteers who spend their free time cutting and crafting the trails that are making Ontario the excellent mountain bike destination that it is.
Hammer the Hydrocut Get out to the Waterloo Region and ride The Hydrocut. This gem deals out an unmatched mountain bike experience in Ontario with 25km of uninterrupted, pure flowing single track paths. While the trails serve up the occasional log piles, bridges, rock gardens and drops, there is something for everyone here. (hydrocut.ca)
Ride the Escarpment From scenic cross country trails with views across Georgian Bay along the Escarpment ridge line to the more challenging, well maintained tracks of the Blue Mountain Bike Park, riders of all skill levels won’t be disappointed. Pick up trail maps and bike rentals
Loree Forest © visitgrey.ca
at the Village before heading up hill with your bike on the special summer Gondola. Be sure to return to the Village for some post ride patio time at one of the many pubs and cafes. Also nearby try the Loree Forest Loop with 7km of single track trails that are great for both beginners and experienced riders.
Smooth Sailing Next time you’re in the Ottawa Valley ride the Beachburg County Forest Trails, just a 40 minute drive south of Pembroke. With 6km of smooth Red Pine forest single track, the trail is perfect for beginner and intermediate riders looking to rip it up. Check this off your list first, but there’s more to explore. We’ve only scratched the surface with trail riding in the Valley. (ottawavalley.travel)
Find your Line in London With over 120 acres of terrain and a 4km beginner’s loop, a 6km intermediate loop, and an 8km expert loop, Boler Mountain in London has been popular in local circles for some time now. Located 20 minutes outside downtown London, these trails are well maintained and groomed. (bolermountain.com)
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Photography by Nicole Childs & Tom Cauduro
ROLLING THROUGH THE COUNTRY SIDE in Waterloo Region, Ontario
Roll through heritage towns, experience Mennonite traditions, taste authentic cuisine, take in the scenic views from the Grand and Conestogo rivers and enjoy the fresh air.
Elmira
Overnight offers starting at $99 St. Jacobs & Aberfoyle Model Railway
TOUR DE WATERLOO June 22 2014
West Montrose Covered Bridge
The Mennonite Story
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market
for more information visit:
explorewaterlooregion.ca