The second largest country in the world with many natural wonders, history and a peaceful landscape, perfect for biking in Canada.
The seven best cycling routes in Canada:
Cape Breton National Park – Located on an island off the northern tip of Nova Scotia in the Atlantic Provinces, the region offers some of the friendliest music-loving people in the world. Your bike tour takes you along the 300 km (185 mi) coastal highway with many corresponding ups and downs. And yes, expect great views of the rugged coastline. Visiting the nearby attractions of the Fortress of Louisbourg and the Alexander Bell Historic Site can easily double your distance.
Confederation Trail – Located on Prince Edward Island, this 168-mile (270-kilometer) rail trail runs from end to end over hard-packed surface. Many of those who travel by bicycle take the quiet streets and the extensions to create a circular route. Expect to see lighthouses, picturesque harbors, wonderful beaches, and perhaps even the Anne of Green Gables show.
Montreal to Quebec City: From Montreal’s historic Old Port, follow La Route Verte 5 east. This is part of more than 4,000 km (2,485 miles) of marked cycle paths in the province. His route takes him along the north shore of the St. Lawrence through the Trois-Riveres to Quebec City. Thinking of a circular route, then head to the south bank of the St. Lawrence River through the eastern townships for a longer return. This marked route includes paved and hard sections.
Waterfront Trail: Starting in Niagara, expect to take a week as you cycle to the Quebec border and perhaps as far as Montreal. Along the way, see historic forts at Kingston and Niagara-on-the-Lake; orchids; Lake Ontario; the big city of Toronto and lots of little lakeside towns.
Icefields Highway – This route begins in Banff and heads north to Jasper National Park through some of the most majestic scenery in the world. In addition to bighorn sheep and moose, expect to see the Columbia Icefields and plenty of waterfalls. Of course, the real reason is to see the mountains on either side. The road has paved shoulders and expects a big climb along the way.
Golden Triangle – There are many routes through the Canadian Rockies. This is a short route that starts in Banff with an extreme ascent over the continental divide to Golden in British Columbia. At least there are paved shoulders during the hard climb. It returns by other mountain paths to complete the triangle. Other popular options include heading south to Waterton Lakes/Glacier National Park in the US or north to Jasper.
Gulf Islands – These islands located between Vancouver and Victoria are made for exploring. You will have arrived by ferry and will stay in a bed and breakfast. Visit the quaint art galleries in the villages, it’s a different lifestyle on the islands.
If you’re not a big planner, there are guided tours of all the routes listed above. If you’re considering taking a bike tour of Canada, consider these routes a great introduction to the country.
