An Insider’s Weekend on Two Wheels in Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie has been making headlines lately—and for good reason. The city’s mountain bike trails have been called some of the best in Ontario, earning nods from national outlets and glowing reviews from riders who travel here for a taste of Canadian Shield singletrack. With freshly built systems, thoughtfully designed flow lines, and epic backcountry routes, the Soo is quickly cementing its reputation as a must-ride destination.

But for first-timers, navigating a new trail town can feel overwhelming. Online maps and hearsay only get you so far, and it’s all too easy to miss the real gems. That’s where some local knowledge goes a long way. Whether you’re chasing family-friendly loops, old-school XC, or lung-busting backcountry adventures, here’s how to stack a weekend of riding that hits all the highlights.

Day One: Trailhead Classics

Ease into the weekend at Kinsmen Park. The pump track here is the perfect warmup before rolling into Myles to Go (MTG), a flow trail that balances beginner-friendly climbs with smooth berms and tabletop jumps that keep things lively for seasoned riders.

When you’re ready to level up, Powerline awaits. This high-speed trail mixes drops, wooden features, and larger jumps—all just minutes from the trailhead, making it easy to session again and again.

From there, dive into the Crystal System. Choose between a 12 km or 17 km loop, but don’t leave without hitting fan favourites like Berm Baby Berm, Sublime, and the show-stoppers—Hawaii 5-0and Soonami . Hawaii 5-0 offers 800 m of playful rollers that will leave you grinning, while Soonami is pure chaos in the best way possible—steep grades, wall rides, jumps, and dirt rollercoasters that demand a victory shout at the bottom.

If you prefer something mellower, head across the road to the Pinder System, where 8 km of twisty, old-school singletrack offer a taste of classic cross-country riding. Pair it with Crystal’s flow trails for the perfect mix.

Day Two: Backcountry Bragging Rights

Day two is all about pushing your limits at  Farmer Lake. Be warned—the opening climb will test your resolve, but the rewards are worth every gasp for air. Your first payoff is Farmer Lake itself, a postcard-perfect waterbody framed by granite ridges and boreal forest.

Press on to Angry Goat and then drop into  Swamp Donkey.a black-diamond beast with berms, drops, and jumps that rival a bike park—but with the added bonus of sweeping Lake Superior forest views.

For those who still have gas in the tank, the newly built Mile High Club is already legendary. The punishing climb is followed by one of the region’s longest, slab-filled descents, capped with panoramic views over Crystal Lake. Just remember: this is true backcountry. Cell coverage is spotty, so bring a buddy and pack like you’re heading into the wild—because you are.

Day Three: Red Pine and Beyond

After two big days, wrap up your weekend on the Red Pine System. The new connector lets you pedal straight from downtown via the 22 km Hub Trail, crossing a brand-new 140-foot bridge over the Root River along the way.

Once at Red Pine, warm up on Slip ’n Slide before making your way to the system’s crown jewel: Stickman. Hand-built in the early 2000s, this rooty, fern-filled trail feels like a ride through prehistory, with just the right balance of challenge and nostalgia.

The Wrap-Up

What makes Sault Ste. Marie special isn’t just the variety of riding—it’s the way every trail feels carefully placed in its natural setting. From flowy descents and family loops to epic backcountry grinds, the Soo packs it all into a single destination. Add in craft breweries, Lake Superior beaches, and a welcoming trail community, and you’ve got the recipe for a weekend that will keep you coming back.

And with even more new systems set to open in 2026, chances are you won’t ride everything in one visit. But that’s the point—you’ll leave already plotting your return.

Pro Tip: The Right Bike Matters

Bring a versatile trail bike that can climb efficiently but still has enough suspension to tackle slabs, jumps, and technical descents. My go-to is a Trek Top Fuel 9.8—light, fast, and perfectly suited for everything from Crystal’s smooth flow to Farmer Lake’s burly backcountry.

📍 Quick Bites & Brews

• Lunch: Soup Witch (comfort food with character), Feed Your Soul (healthy options, vegan-friendly)
• Beer & Patios: Northern Breweries, Outspoken
• Dinner: Ernie’s Coffee Shop (big flavours, casual vibe), Peace (modern, Asian-inspired plates)

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