We polled the experts, aka our Canadian friends in the Gazelle Owners Group, about the best places to ride in Canada and they didn’t disappoint! Make the most out of the summer season and get out and explore these beautiful two wheel-friendly routes across the country.
Quebec
- Le P’tit Train du Nord
Starting off strong with Le P’tit Train du Nord, a fully paved rail trail offering over 200 kilometers of stunning views from Montreal to Tremblant. Named after the former railway line it follows, the “Little Train of the North” winds through the Rivière du Nord valley passing quaint towns, lush scenery, and wildlife all along the way.
- La Route Vert
Boasting the longest network of cycling trails in North America, this collection of trails spans an impressive 5,300 kilometers and covers some of Quebec’s most breathtaking regions. These routes connect the province to other neighboring bikeways in Ontario, New Brunswick, and the United States. Perfect for a short Sunday ride or a multi-day bike packing expedition!
Ontario
- Long Sault Parkway
Take a cruise by the bright blue waters of Long Sault Parkway, “One of the greatest rides in Ontario”, according to Gazelle owner Owen. This unique trail crosses eleven islands via a series of causeways and bridges. These islands were the former hilltops of the Lost Villages, an area that was flooded to make way for the Seaway and Power Dam project in 1958. Today, the best way to explore the islands is riding along this trail.
- Rouge National Urban Park
If gentle rolling hills, green farmland, and forests are your thing, check out Rouge National Urban Park’s trails. This park maintains over 50 kilometers of trails and acts as a rural oasis. Feel far away from the busy city while being barely outside of Toronto.
Ottawa
- Trans Canada Rail Trail
This recommended ride begins in the west end of Ottawa and ends in Carleton Place, a lovely little town. Along the way, you’ll ride through Bells Corners, Kanata, Stittsville, and Ashton, all adorable towns with plenty to offer in the way of scenery. For the adventurous cyclist, the Trans Canada Rail Trail has plenty of kilometers to cover, stretching from coast to coast, it would take at least a few summers to explore it all.
Alberta
- Calgary
Gazelle owner Todd recommends checking out the city of Calgary for approximately 1000 km of regional paved pathways and 96 km of dirt trails. Enjoy these winding paths with views of snow-capped mountains, meadows, and pristine lakes around every turn. This is a truly lovely place to ride.
- Bow Valley Parkway, Banff
Travel along a scenic 17 km paved road from Banff to Lake Louise via Bow Valley Parkway. Don’t worry about larger vehicles interrupting your serene ride, the road is closed to cars in the spring and fall, allowing for a relaxing cyclists only experience. This three year road closure pilot program concludes this fall (2024), so be sure to check it out before it’s too late!
British Columbia
- Kettle Valley Rail Trail
One of the best known bike routes in Canada is Kettle Valley Rail Trail. Traversing about 650 km, this trail is well known for a reason. Riding this trail you’ll cover a shocking variety of scenery for such a relatively short distance. See stunning views from mountains to deserts and even the golden valleys of British Columbia’s southern interior. Whether you explore a section in a day trip or pikepack the whole trail, Kettle Valley won’t disappoint.
- Stanley Park, Vancouver
Gazelle owner Don suggests a ride over the Lions Gate Bridge to explore the network of bike trails in Stanley Park. Affectionately referred to as “The Jewel of Vancouver”, Stanley Park is a perfect leisurely ride with many iconic views along the way. Take a spin around the seawall on the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world or avoid the crowds on any of the more inland bike paths. This is sure to be the highlight of any Vancouver trip.
