The best cycling routes in Ontario

Ontario offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 1600 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to a wide range of abilities, from easy, flat paths to more challenging rides with significant elevation changes.

Ontario's touring cycling routes traverse incredibly diverse landscapes. You can expect to see the extensive shorelines of the Great Lakes, the tranquil farmlands and vineyards of Southern Ontario, the lush forests and winding rivers of the Greenbelt, and the rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield, particularly in central and northern areas.

Yes, Ontario has many family-friendly options. A significant portion of the routes, over 999, are rated as easy. For example, the Sunnyside Beach – Humber Bay Arch Bridge loop from Toronto Union Station is an easy 18.5 km path that offers pleasant waterfront views suitable for families.

Absolutely. Ontario borders four of the five Great Lakes, offering thousands of kilometers of coastline. The province is home to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, which spans over 3,600 km and connects numerous communities along the shores of these majestic lakes and the St. Lawrence River. Routes like the Cherry Beach – Woodbine Beach loop from Toronto Union Station follow the Toronto waterfront, providing excellent views of Lake Ontario.

Many touring cycling routes in Ontario are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the challenging Étienne Brûlé Lookout – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Westboro, or the moderate Rideau Canal – Rockcliffe Park Bike Path loop from Lees, which takes you through Ottawa's historic areas.

The touring cycling routes in Ontario are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3000 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from urban waterfronts to tranquil farmlands, and the extensive network of well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.

Yes, Ontario is well-suited for multi-day touring. The province features extensive trail networks like the Trans Canada Trail, which spans over 5,000 km in Ontario, and the Greenbelt Route, a signed 475 km cycling route. These networks offer diverse experiences and connect numerous communities, making them ideal for longer journeys.

The most popular times for touring cycling in Ontario are typically spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, from spring blossoms to fall foliage. Summer provides the warmest weather, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Many routes in Ontario offer stunning scenic viewpoints. The Étienne Brûlé Lookout – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Westboro, for instance, is known for leading to scenic lookouts. Additionally, routes along the Great Lakes shorelines and through areas like the Canadian Shield provide numerous picturesque vistas.

Ontario's touring routes often pass by or provide access to remarkable natural features. You can explore areas with numerous waterfalls, such as those near Hamilton, or visit unique geological formations like caves. For example, you might find yourself near highlights such as The Grotto or Bruce’s Caves, offering opportunities to combine cycling with exploration.

Yes, Ontario is home to many waterfalls, and some routes can incorporate them. While specific routes in this guide may not directly lead to them, regions like Hamilton boast over 100 waterfalls, and the world-renowned Niagara Falls can be integrated into cycling tours. Other notable falls like Kakabeka Falls also provide scenic stops.

Many routes in Ontario, particularly around major cities, incorporate urban parks and green spaces. The Wilket Creek Trail – Wilket Creek Trail loop from The Bridle Path is an example of a route that takes you through green corridors within the city, offering a refreshing escape.