5 Bike Destinations in Quebec
1. Road Biking in the Laurentians and Lanaudière — Le Nordet
Level: Very difficult
Duration: 4 to 6 hours
Distance: 84 km
Elevation gain: 1,023 metres
A must-ride! The Chemin du Nordet travels 84 kilometres and crosses three municipalities: Lac Supérieur, Val-des-Lacs and Saint-Donat. This rather demanding trip can be linear or a loop with a return on route 329. The bike lanes are wide, and cyclists travel easily and safely. The road has little traffic; it sees more cyclists than cars!
The Chemin du Nordet is a significant challenge. You’ll encounter many hills during your journey. Write it on your seasonal bucket list, and tackle it when you already have a few bike rides under your belt.
The Chemin du Nordet is a favourite of our cyclists at the Laval store: “The quality of the road is simply perfect given the lack of cars on the route.”
2. Road Biking in the Eastern Townships — L’Estriade
Level: Beginner
Duration: 1 to 8 hours
Distance: 97 km
Gradient: 2%
A closed route with a small altitude gain that makes it accessible to everyone! The Estriade network stretches over 97 kilometres. A mix of paved and unpaved trails, the network goes through Granby, the Canton de Shefford, Bromont and Waterloo in addition to passing by many tourist attractions. The Estriade includes several small networks that allow you to vary your distances. It’s an ideal route for a quick outing or a weekend day exploring the area.
The nature loop in the Parc national de la Yamaska is also one of my favourites for a quick ride. The trail is made of stone dust. The loop spans 40 kilometres that wind through the Choinière Reservoir. It’s worth checking out.
3. Road Biking in the Laurentians and Lanaudière — Parc du Corridor aérobique
Level: Intermediate
Duration: 3 to 6 hours
Distance: 58 km
Gradient: 5%
For a family outing, an early season ride or simply for fun, the Parc du corridor aérobique is perfect! The route covers 58 kilometres on compacted crushed stones. With little elevation gain, this recreational route runs from Morin-Heights to Amherst.
Take the opportunity to stop for a picnic, visit local producers and artisans, and admire the Laurentian landscapes.
4. Road Biking in Saguenay Lac St-Jean — Véloroute des Bleuets
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Distance: 256 km
Gradient: 5%
A multiday ride around St-Jean Lake? Why not? An ideal route to complete during your summer vacation, the 256 kilometres along the coast of the magnificent lake can be covered on three- or five-day itineraries. The véloroute des Bleuets website offers detailed information on various routes.
A paved network—except for the section in the Pointe-Taillon National Park—the Véloroute des Bleuets doesn’t have a significant altitude gain, which makes it accessible to everyone. The biggest challenge is the length of the trip, but many accommodations and services are offered along the way. Beautiful landscapes, beaches, villages—in short, an indelible cycling holiday!
5. Road Biking in Mauricie — Route de la Promenade du Parc national de la Mauricie
Level: Advanced
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Distance: 63 km
Elevation gain: 970 m
A 63 km linear trip on a brand-new roadway with widened shoulders in some places! Crossing La Mauricie National Park on the Route de la Promenade is a regional favourite. Throughout the route, you will experience many breathtaking viewpoints.
The Route de la Promenade has some big hills to climb in certain places. Take the time to refuel at one of the designated picnic areas. Why not stop at a lake and soak your feet? Or camp at one of the campsites in La Mauricie National Park after your crossing? What a beautiful weekend getaway to mark on your calendar!
Some Tips Before Your Road Bike Ride
It’s important to prepare before venturing out on bike paths. Here are some quick tips that will help you fully enjoy your ride:
-
Bring enough water and snacks to keep up your energy.
-
Make sure you have at least one bike tube in case you have a flat.
-
Check the state of the network. Natural events can block bike paths.
-
Prepare for your trip so you don’t get lost, and plan to have some breaks.
-
Check your tire pressure.
-
Keep a tube of sunscreen with you.
The important thing during your bike rides is to choose a route that suits you. The province is full of bike routes and paths that accommodate all types of cyclists. Know your limits and enjoy Quebec’s beautiful landscapes.
