Pick Your Ride – 10 Trail & Road Rides Across South Eastern Ontario

With ten suggested cycling itineraries and 30 plus routes to choose from, it’s easy to plan a short getaway or better yet, a week-long holiday cycling as much or as little as wanted in South Eastern Ontario.

Find a cycling itinerary that best suits your style, from waterfront and rail trails or shorter country side rides to longer more challenging loops through the scenic and varied landscapes that stretch from Bay of Quinte in the west, the Rideau Canal in the north, and Cornwall to the east. Never far from lakeside communities and smaller towns that have an abundance of interesting heritage, unique businesses to stop at and all the amenities needed, plan a visit that includes cycling and matches your ride style.

Having been a part of the team that originally created these itineraries and cycling map in 2012, and more recently updating the routes – we are definitely excited to be making our own ride plans to get back to the south east this cycling season.

SDG Counties and Cornwall

Park It and Parkway – This 52km loop can be extended or shortened following the St. Lawrence River and Riverside Trail, a part of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. Experience the Long Sault Parkway that connects 11 islands, with picturesque beaches, picnic spots, secluded inlets, wetlands, and lush greenery, all nestled along the water’s edge. Loop north from Ingleside to ride through quiet countryside past fields and farmland, or simply return on the Parkway for an easy out and back pedal.

Cornwall Urban Loop – For an easier ride and city exploration try the 27km loop in Cornwall. Starting from downtown and the vast waterfront Lamoureux Park, follow the scenic and paved Riverside Trail that winds its way along the old canals past scenic lookout areas and the massive Saunders Power Dam. Use on road bike lanes and paved shoulders on the northern reaches, circling back through Gray’s Creek Conservation Area and returning to Downtown Cornwall and its numerous shops and restaurants.

Frontenac County

Wolfe Island – Experience the beauty and tranquility of island life – by bike and enjoy a 41km ride around Wolfe Island. Take a relaxing and short ferry ride from Kingston to Marysville, the island hub with a bakery, gallery, pub, museum and small-scale accommodations. From the south side of the island view across the river to nearby New York State. Ride out to Big Sandy Bay and the beach and marvel at the tall wind turbines that dot the island, stopping at unique artisan and agricultural businesses along the way.

Lennox & Addington County

Shoreline Route – Don’t let the 71km distance of this road route stop you as there are plenty of start locations and options to cut the length in half on this loop that has been tried and tested by the popular annual L&A Ride event. Enjoy the quiet countryside and sweeping water views from Napanee, along the shoreline of Lake Ontario and back. Sample local goods at farms of all types, pass by a variety of interesting barns and original limestone buildings on the Loyalist Parkway and around Hay Bay.

Prince Edward County

Town & County Road Ride – True to its name this 60km ride is a perfect sampler and great tour showcasing the scenic views, quiet countryside, county towns, as well as the culinary and arts scene across Prince Edward County. A popular summer destination, the County is a great place to cycle with short distances between towns that have everything you need. This loop can easily be done in any direction, with a start and end in Picton, Bloomfield or Wellington to visit shops, cafes, wineries and art galleries. Other routes include a ride to Sandbanks Provincial Park or along the Millennium Trail.

More Cycling Itineraries & Looped Rides to Add to Your Trip

Bay of Quinte West – 68km – Highlights include: Belleville and Quinte West, the historic Trent-Severn Waterway, quiet countryside on the northern portion and riverside patios.

Kingston, K&P Trail – 10km to 69km – Highlights include: Off-road rail trail, that with some city trail and on-road connections can also be enjoyed from downtown Kingston.

Gananoque, 1000 Islands Parkway – 37km to 75km – Highlights include: Traffic free recreational trail, water and island views along the St. Lawrence River, stops at Ivy Lea, Rockport and parks along the way.

Brockville, Brock Trail – 4km to 18km – Highlights include: Brockville waterfront, downtown and numerous attractions like the historic Railway Tunnel and at trail end Mac Johnson Wildlife Area.

Rideau Canal Waterway – West & East – 84km and 121km – Highlights include: Rideau lakes, the Rideau Canal and lockstations, plus small towns and villages – Westport, Delta, Merrickville and Kemptville.

For Additional Information

• All South Eastern Ontario cycling itineraries and cycling map – www.southeasternontario.ca/cycling
• South Eastern Ontario Destinations – Visitor Information in destinations across South Eastern Ontario
• Ontario By Bike – South Eastern Ontario – Great Places to Cycle – Find more regional and cross-regional road and trail cycling routes, published maps and resources, and bicycle friendly businesses to eat, visit and sleep.

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Sponsored Content Partner: South Eastern Ontario
Photos Credits: Cornwall Tourism, Alan Medcalf, County of Frontenac, Lennox & Addington County, Destination Ontario, Ontario By Bike.