Day 1: Barrie to Midland – 72km

Starting from downtown Barrie, set out following a 16km road route connecting to the North Simcoe Rail Trail. Slow down to view wildlife and native plants, on this gravel section that travels through the Minesing Wetlands, one of Ontario’s largest remaining wetlands, before connecting along the not-so-short 23km Tiny Trail just north of Elmvale. Stop at the trailside park for a picnic or pop into town for lunch before continuing north. For a quick detour to the beach, turn left at Balm Beach Road following the road for about 3.5km. Roll onwards and under the heavy tree canopy, meandering across creeks and rivers on a series of historic railway bridges into the town of Penetanguishene. Riding alongside the shores of the Severn Sound and Georgian Bay, cruise into Midland via the Mid-Pen Trail link, the final destination of day one.

Day 2: Midland to Barrie – 92km

A ride highlight, follow the waterfront trail connecting to the Tay Shore Trail for a delightful fully paved 20km. Consider a trail side stop at Saint-Marie among the Hurons, a Canadian National Historic Site. Enjoy frequent water views and water access as the trail weaves its way through marshlands and along the shoreline of Georgian Bay. South of Waubaushene connect on to the Uhthoff Trail. Take a lunch break in the town of Coldwater before biking onward to Orilla. Enjoy a stop at the Couchiching Beach Park in Orilla, and then continue south along the easy riding Oro-Medonte Rail Trail for the last 37km back to complete the loop in Barrie.

Getting To / From Start: Barrie is located approximately 1 hour 15 min from downtown Toronto,  5 hours from Ottawa, 2 1/2 hours from London and 2 hours from Niagara Falls

Arriving Early / Staying Late:
Consider an overnight option at one of Ontario By Bike’s certified bicycle-friendly accommodations in Simcoe County here