5 Dream Biking Destinations in Canada
1. Road Biking in Nova Scotia: the Must-Ride Cabot Trail
For our first destination, let’s head east to Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park travels nearly 300 kilometres between the sea and the island’s mountains. Riding through nature and climbing into the highland plateaus through Chéticamp, you’ll discover beautiful, peaceful country roads.
The route features a number of camp sites where you can stop for the night and soak in the scenery. The map available on the park’s website shows all the water stops accessible on the itinerary. And while spending a few days in Nova Scotia, head to Cape Breton Island for its many activities, such as hiking, whale watching and sea kayaking.
The Cabot Trail’s beauty has put it on the list of the 10 most beautiful cycling destinations in the world according to Lonely Planet. It’s definitely a bucket list adventure—to experience on your own or with a guide.
Are you more of the gravel bike type? Learn about the best gravel biking destinations.
2. Road Biking in the Okanagan Valley
Known for its warm temperatures, dry weather and long sunny days, the Okanagan Valley is the perfect destination for spring riding. Located between two mountain ranges, the valley is also renowned for fruit orchards and incredible vineyards. Need more reasons to visit?
On two wheels, you can travel the roads through vineyards and along lakeshores—Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, to name a few—in addition to enjoying many campgrounds, wine tastings and an amazing climate. From Kamloops to Penticton, via Kelowna and Osoyoos, you won’t have any trouble coming up with an incredible multi-day itinerary.
3. The Magnificent Yukon by Mountain Bike
The Yukon Territory and its wild beauty is yours to discover. Why not explore it on your mountain bike? This seldom-visited place is one of the country’s gems. With active wildlife and few tourists, Kluane National Park is an outstanding bike packing option for adventurers.
The Cottonwood Trail is an 85-kilometre loop with wilderness camping. You’ll ride along crystal clear streams, over mountain passes and through lush meadows. If you seek thrills and challenges, look no further than this trail.
Since the adventure takes place in the backcountry, you’ll need to learn about the regulations that protect you and nature. Keep in mind that the Yukon is bear country.
Want to get in shape before you leave for the Yukon? Learn about 5 Mountain Bike Destinations for the 2023 Season.
4. Cycling in Ontario on the Niagara Wine Route
Why not take a trip to Ontario to travel the Wine Route? The Niagara region is renowned for its vineyards and the quality of their wines. With more than 80 vineyards, you won’t lack for hydration on the road.
Along Lake Ontario or deeper in the countryside, the Wine Route is part of the 140-kilometre Greater Niagara Circle Route trail system. Many activities are available in addition to wine and local product tastings. An ideal itinerary for the epicurious!
5. Mountain Biking in Charlevoix
The Massif de Charlevoix never ceases to amaze! Since 2021, the mountain has been transformed into a bike park for the summer, offering thrill seekers an incredible playground. Rated from beginner to expert, the trails are designed so that all levels of riders can have fun. Offering 40 kilometres of trails, two skill areas, a pro-line and a family-oriented trail, the Massif has something for everyone.
The long descents are sometimes flowy, sometimes more technical. All of them maximize the stoke and your personal challenge level. Once you get to the bottom of the trails, the ski lift awaits you so you can enjoy the Massif de Charlevoix’s gorgeous scenery on the way back up. Since the mountain sits beside Baie-Saint-Paul, you can take the opportunity to spend the weekend there and check out the microbrasserie de Charlevoix and the village’s friendly restaurants.
