Find Excellent Places to Bike Near Elliot Lake

Located midway between Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury, Elliot Lake is a quaint and quiet outdoor playground near Lake Huron’s North Channel. Among its wealth of adventure opportunities are some amazing cycling surprises.

The area has long been known as the home of one of the most challenging courses on the Ontario Cup mountain bike circuit, and the local scene is presently getting even better. The trails in and around Elliot Lake are going through a rebirth and renewal. As of 2022, local movers and shakers were discussing the unveiling of a series of multi-use trails. Stay tuned.

Mountain biking

As the site of past Ontario Cup Mountain bike races, the trails at the Mount Dufour Ski Area have made a name for themselves as being swoopy and fast. Officially called the Mount Dufour/Fire Tower Trail Network, the 13 kilometre network contains three black trails, four blues, and three greens.

For downhill lovers, the Rock n’ Roll trail involves 200 metres of descent and takes an average time of 37 minutes to complete. Can you beat it?

The terrain can be fast at times, with many rooty and rocky descents. It’s advisable to scout out the features before attempting. The trails include many family-friendly trails, but the black diamond trails are some of the province’s most technical, and fun!

Beginning at the Fire Tower Lookout, the intermediate trail called Tall Paul leads to a panoramic view of the city below. It’s a downhill trail, but watch out for the drop off. Locals say only Paul, the builder, attempts this drop. The rest walk!

Road Riding

This region is full of lakes, rivers, and provincial parks, perfect for creating bikepacking loops and camping overnight with your bike.

The Deer Trail Touring Route is a 180-km paved and gravelled route that is perfect for taking on a multi-day challenge or a one day in-and-out ride. The triangular route winds through Elliot Lake, Blind River, and Iron Bridge.  The ride is a classic route through wilderness—get the camera ready. In fact, the 100-kilometre ride between Elliot Lake and Iron Bridge follows the Kindiogami River for almost half the route, with frequent viewpoints that are sure to slow your progress. Overnight accommodations are available in Iron Bridge, Blind River, and Elliot Lake, with overnight options at the north end of the route available at Laurentian Lodge and Mississagi Provincial Park.

If you’re looking for more adventure, The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail runs through this region. This is an epic road cycling route that offers lots of info and ideas for lengthy or lingering road trips in the region.

Bike Shop

Canadian Tire sells bike tubes and bike tube patch kits in Elliot Lake, but for more gear head to either Velorution in Sault Ste. Marie or Sudbury’s Sessions Ride Company.

Post-Ride Eats

For everything from pasta and burgers to prime rib, The Fireside Classic Grill is a local favourite.

When you are craving a fried egg and bologna sandwich, and other classic Canadian diner fare, Mum’s Place Restaurant serves up big portions.

For stone-baked pizza and fish and chips, Georges Restaurant is a newer kid on the block that’s worth checking out.

Off the Saddle

Sheriff Creek Wildlife Sanctuary is a secluded spot to hike for a view of turtles and possibly moose, as well as unique wetland plants such as water lilies, wild sarsaparilla, and yellow loosestrife.

The region is also home to some white sand beaches including Spruce and Spine beaches for swimming and picnicking.

To extend your trip, include a trip to Little White River Provincial Park or Mississagi Provincial Park to enjoy some of the region’s best and well-marked hiking trails, including the strenuous 22-km McKenzie Trail which runs through the Stag Lake Peatlands.

Along the road riding routes, you’ll find gems such as Bells Falls in Bellingham. For a real treat, the Strawberry Fields Farm just west of Iron Bridge is a delicious stop.

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