Manitoulin Island
As the largest island in a freshwater lake, Manitoulin is big enough for cyclists to enjoy a multi day tour. Many visitors may be unaware of the following distances between towns and destinations in between.
Road Distances on the Island:
- South Baymouth to Meldrum Bay – 133km
- South Baymouth to Little Current – 64km
- South Baymouth to Gore Bay – 83km
- Little Current to Espanola – 47km
- Little Current to Gore Bay – 63km
- Gore Bay to Meldrum Bay – 70km
Manitoulin Island & La Cloche Mountains Cycling Routes & Road Map – This map details 14 route loop suggestions offering combined over 800km off great on-road cycling and 45km off-road trails across the Island. It has something suitable for every type of cyclists. Routes are published online,you can print a route copy or order a physical copy online.
Manitou Loop (Self-guided Itinerary) – Experience some of the best cycling on Manitoulin Island on this 126km, two-day cycling itinerary, developed as part of the Ontario150 – Celebrate by Bike initiative. This route takes cyclists around Lake Manitou, the largest lake on Manitoulin Island. From beaches to historic sites, from quaint communities to First Nation’s culture; experience a local hospitality and a network of quiet, paved roads that reveal a countryside perfect for overnight cycling trips.
Country Roads – With plenty of quiet country roads around it is not hard to create numerous route options. Road surfaces differ from paved with shoulders perfect for cyclists, paved with light traffic, surface treated to hard packed gravel. The only times there is increased traffic and cyclists should use caution, is on the road to/from South Baymouth around ferry times.
LaCloche Foothills – Many long distance cyclists travel this way as they are on round the lakes or cross Canada tours. Communities with many of the amenities and services cyclists are looking for are easily arrived at within a day’s ride or closer. This area encompasses Espanola, communities along the north shore from Spanish to Nairn Centre, and south from Espanola towards Little Current on the Island.