Ottawa is undeniably a cyclist’s city, boasting an extensive network of trails and paths maintained by the City of Ottawa, the National Capital Commission, and a robust community. With over 980 km of multi-use and cycling paths, the city has cultivated a thriving cycling culture.
Explore the most beautiful and popular routes for cycling, as curated by iottawa.net.
The Trans Canada Trail
As the main cycling network, the Trans Canada Trail is a perennial favourite. It connects western Ottawa through the city’s core, offering breathtaking views while allowing cyclists to stay active.
Spanning 24,000 km, it is the world’s longest recreational trail, including water, hiking, and cycling routes. Stretching through all 13 provinces and territories, it provides cyclists with unparalleled scenic beauty year-round.
Top 5 Scenic Routes
Start your exploration with these five picturesque routes:
- Chrysler Canada Greenway
The southernmost section of the Trans Canada Trail, this 42 km path winds through vineyards, watersheds, orchards, and farmland between Kingsville, Windsor, and Essex County. - Frontenac K&P Trail
Stretching between Kingston and Frontenac County, this trail includes Charbot Lake, the abandoned Canadian Pacific Railway, and the UNESCO-listed Frontenac Arch bridge. - Friendship Trail and Niagara River Recreation Trail
One of the most scenic routes in Canada, it spans from Port Colborne to the Niagara Peninsula. Cyclists pass Lake Erie, the Niagara River, historic forts, vineyards, and parks, culminating in the iconic Niagara Falls. This beginner-friendly, well-maintained, paved route is perfect for families. - Great Lakes Waterfront Trail
A mix of urban and rural paths, this route connects Sault Ste. Marie to Sudbury in Northern Ontario, offering cyclists an unforgettable experience. - Lanark Link
Connecting Smiths Falls to Perth in Lanark County, this trail is a series of short loops that highlight the Eastern Ontario Shield, hamlets, and farmland.
Capital Pathway
The Capital Pathway, a 236 km network of multi-use trails, is one of North America’s largest and offers an excellent way to explore Ottawa and Gatineau.
The pathway showcases the Ottawa River, Rideau Canal, parks, gardens, natural areas, cultural landmarks, and museums. It’s a top choice for cyclists seeking to immerse themselves in the region’s beauty.
Gatineau Park
Cycling through Gatineau Park and the Greenbelt is a fantastic way to enjoy nature, whether solo, with family, or with friends.
Start your journey from the Champlain Bridge, cross into Quebec, and follow trails to Gatineau Park. Scenic views of the river and Gatineau Hills are sure to inspire, with Pinhey’s Point Gardens offering an ideal spot for a rest.
Great Spots for Cycling in Ottawa
- O-Train Pathway: A 1.2 km route connecting the Trans Canada Trail with Ottawa’s southwest.
- East-End Trail to Petrie Island: A path leading through Ottawa River, Hiawatha Park Road, and wetlands, ending at a recreational area with a beach.
- Osgoode Pathway (Doug Thompson Path): A 21 km trail through an abandoned rail corridor and Osgoode Village.
- Prescott-Russell Trail: A 20 km stretch extending east of Blair Road and connecting to the 72 km Prescott-Russell Recreation Trail.
- Andrew Haydon Park and Moodie Drive: A 4.2 km trail through the park that links with the Trans Canada Trail.
Ottawa’s cycling infrastructure makes it easy to fall in love with the city while exploring its many trails and routes.
Cycling Tours in Ottawa
Cycling in Ottawa improves both your physical health and your appreciation for the city’s stunning views. Here are some top tours to try:
- The Great Ottawa Loop (31 km)
This route covers the Ottawa River, Dow’s Lake, Rideau Canal, Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum, castles, and Ottawa and Carleton universities. - Carp & Country Debunker
Starting in Carp Village, this ride passes through rural areas and quiet roads in Ottawa’s western outskirts. - Cumber Tour de Land
Starting in Cumberland Village, this route reveals countryside estates, farms, and tranquil rural roads. - North Kanata to Stittsville Loop (61 km)
This route features significant elevation changes, making it perfect for more experienced cyclists. - Fitzroy Provincial Park & Morris Island Conservation Area
Cyclists often camp at Fitzroy Park and enjoy the Penny’s Fudge Factory in Fitzroy Harbour. You can also explore the quaint Quebec village of Quyon. - Ottawa-Prescott-Russell Rail Trail
This serene route alternates between wooded areas and farmland.
Ottawa also offers shorter rural cycling routes that combine scenic trails with visits to farms, markets, and landmarks, catering to cyclists of all skill levels.
When to Start Cycling?
In 2013, Ottawa became the first city in Ontario to receive the Bicycle Friendly Community Award (Gold Level). While many locals cycle year-round, spring and summer are the best times to explore Ottawa’s scenic trails.
Choose a route, prepare your bike, and enjoy the ride—cycling in Ottawa is an experience not to be missed!