Top 8 Picks for Leisurely Off-Road Cycling

Have you tried these trails yet?

Ontario’s off-road trails provide relaxing car-free cycling experiences along picturesque waterways and through interesting countryside.  Some trails are fully paved while others have hard packed stone surfaces. 

Georgian Trail

Blue-Mountain-Resort-

This scenic 26 km trail follows the stunning blue waters of Georgian Bay from Collingwood to Meaford.  Cyclists have easy access to Blue Mountain Village and the many shops, cafes, galleries and boutiques in Meaford and Thornbury.  Pick up some local foods at a variety of trailside farms and country store stops. 

Chrysler Greenway

Chrysler-Canada-Greenway-Photo

This idyllic 50 km rail trail ride runs from Windsor to Leamington.  Near the natural wonders of Point Pelee National Park, Pelee Island and Lake Erie, the flat terrain allows for easy access to a growing number of vineyards plus lots more. 

Thames River Parkway

This picturesque 40 km paved, multi-use trail follows the twists and turns of the Thames River while cutting thorough London centre, making it easy to access other trails and attractions.

Niagara River Recreational Trail

Niagara-River-Recreation-Trail-Image---Bridge-over-Frenchmans-Creek

This 56 km paved trail follows the Niagara River from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Fort Erie.  Enjoy riverside picnics, local wineries, botanical gardens, a butterfly conservatory, historic forts and the spectacular Niagara Falls. 

Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail

Roll through scenic agricultural lands and pristine wetlands and connect to local communities located near this 72 km long stone dust rail trail.  It is accessible to all cyclists and has an easy level of difficulty.  

Ottawa

Ottawa-cycling-National-Capital-Commission-Photo

One of the largest recreational path systems in North America traverse the city of Ottawa and Canada’s capital region.  With over 300 km of off-road cycling paths, you can enjoy the many attractions of this region.  

About Louisa Mursell

Louisa is an avid cyclist and outdoor adventurer. As Project Director for the Welcome Cyclists Network and Transportation Options (including Bike Train), she is very knowledgeable about cycling in Ontario.

Recommended Articles

Can it all fit?

Learn how to pack & paddle your kayak.

Kevin's Best Trip Ever

Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

What's your preference?

High tech or traditional.

What Inspires a National Geographic Writer?

A visit to the Slate Islands.

Need a quick getaway idea?

Go biking, zipping & climbing

Dog-friendly Vacations In Ontario

20 Fall Views Away from the Crowds

Embrace adventure—it’ll be worth it.

Take Your Dog on Vacation

Find the best pet-friendly trip ideas in Ontario.

Best Trail Running in Ontario

From forest paths to coastal routes.

5 Trails Less Travelled

Amazing day hikes in Northwest Ontario.

Beach Camping in Ontario

14 sandy places to pitch your tent and swim to your heart’s content.

Canada's Largest Hiking Festival

"Shake your boot-eh" in the Haliburton Highlands in September

Boreal Backcountry

Explore Wild Wabakimi

WANT A PERFECT CANOEING COMPANION?

These tips will make your pup canoe-ready.

What's your limit?

7 days; 60 km

Journey into the Past

Explore the ghost town of Jackfish, famous for CPR's "last spike."

150 canoes for Canada's 150th birthday

A celebration of Canada and the canoe.

Trains, planes & Canoes

Journey into the Boreal Forest

SKILLS VIDEO: canoe essentials

The 7 most important items you'll need.

Need a Father's Day gift?

10 ideas for adventures Dad will love