Beginner's Guide to Cycling

Biking & Cycling

Discover Ontario In All Its Beauty On Your Bike

Northern Ontario is the perfect place for cyclists to explore. With thousands of kilometres of trail systems, paved and gravel roads, and historic and cultural routes that take riders through pristine boreal forests, friendly small towns, and along beautiful lakes and rivers, biking is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in this part of the province.

Get inspired

Have biking on the brain, but not quite sure where to start? Consult our guides to Ontario's best cycling routes and rides to really get your wheels spinning.

a man waves while cycling along a rural road in Ontario
Find scenic views, smooth pavement and friendly waves on these Ontario cycling routes. Source: Justen Soule // Destination Ontario

Cycling routes

a group of people mountain biking along a forest trail
Roots, rocks and gnarly rides await you. Source: Justen Soule // Destination Ontario

Mountain biking & gravel biking

worm's eye view of people cycling through a forest in fall
Fall brings cooler weather and colourful foliage—perfect for a ride! Source: Destination Ontario

Seasonal rides

three cyclists take in the views of Georgian Bay from the top of Blue Mountain
Bike up Blue Mountain for panoramic views of Georgian Bay. Source: Destination Ontario

Speciality rides

Local cycling guides

Learn all about the best biking locations across Northern Ontario and find top-notch cycling spots that fit into your travel plans.

Mattawa

North Bay

Learn more: Explore North Bay

a group of cyclists ride along a forest path at Hiawatha Highlands
Hiawatha Highlands is just one of the great Algoma-area destinations for cyclists. Source: Colin Field // Destination Ontario

Sault Ste. Marie

Learn more: Explore Sault Ste. Marie

Sudbury

Learn more: Explore Sudbury

Timmins

Learn more: Explore Timmins

Thunder Bay

Learn more: Explore Thunder Bay

man and boy look out over the water from biking trail near Kenora
Stop for a moment and take in the rugged beauty of Kenora's natural landscape. Source: Destination Ontario

Best of the rest

man and woman ride along a rustic roadway with sumac in foreground
All you need to know to avoid bumps in the road. Source: Justen Soule // Destination Ontario

Visitors’ guides

If you’re traveling from the Big Smoke—or from slightly farther afield—find a selection of cycling opportunities geared just for you.

a group of cyclists pose for a group photo at Thornbury Marina
Join a group ride for fun that you can share. Source: Destination Ontario

Cycling culture

From shop rides to road races, one of the best things about cycling is the chance to ride together. Get the insiders’ view on the very best of Ontario’s cycling culture.

Clubs

Events

closeup of father and son inspecting bike tire
From fix-it skills to safety clinics, brush up on your cycling knowledge before hitting the trails. Source: Destination Ontario

Getting started

Below we’ve gathered the resources you need to ride safely, build your skills and plan the perfect Ontario cycling trip.

Skills & safety

Trip planning

Learn more:    
Plan Your Summer Trip    
Plan Your Fall Trip    
Where to Eat

Rentals

Where to stay

Ontario By Bike is your one-stop shop for cycling trip planning in the province. Source: Destination Ontario

To plan a cycling day trip or longer cycling itinerary and adventure in Northern Ontario with information on road routes, trails, mountain biking, and bicycle-friendly businesses, find more information and complete resources on cycling at Ontario By Bike.

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