great lakes cycle tour

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• Printed Twin Cities Bike Map Discontinued May 10, 2021 I’ve been publishing the print version of the Twin Cities Bike Map since 1983. In 2013 I introduced the mobile version of the map and watched mobile sales rise while print sales have declined. Although I’ve seen a COVID related surge in print map sales during the last year, the overall trend has been down,… […]
• Riding the Hills of Afton April 14, 2021 Looking for a hilly ride to put some burn into your legs? Try this route, near the Afton area. It incorporates about 1800 feet of climbing into a 30 mile ride. We started at the pin and went counterclockwise. The last leg was mercifully flat and we had a tailwind.
• Updated mobile Twin Cities Bike Map Available March 10, 2021 The Twin Cities Mobile Bike Map has been updated. Changes include the St. Paul Grand Rounds, the new trail connector in S. St. Paul, the first stage of the new paved River Bottoms route and changes in a number of suburban cities. Check the Avenza app on your phone. Updates are free if you’ve already… […]

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I’ve been publishing the print version of the Twin Cities Bike Map since 1983. In 2013 I introduced the mobile version of the map and watched mobile sales rise while print sales have declined. Although I’ve seen a COVID related surge in print map sales during the last year, the overall trend has been down, to the point where I can no longer profitably run small press runs. I’ve decided to discontinue the printed version. It’s the end of an era. I will no longer sell the print version through my website, but you should be able to find maps at Twin Cities bike dealers through the end of the season. The mobile version of the map is still available and will be updated regularly.

Looking for a hilly ride to put some burn into your legs? Try this route, near the Afton area. It incorporates about 1800 feet of climbing into a 30 mile ride. We started at the pin and went counterclockwise. The last leg was mercifully flat and we had a tailwind.

The Twin Cities Mobile Bike Map has been updated. Changes include the St. Paul Grand Rounds, the new trail connector in S. St. Paul, the first stage of the new paved River Bottoms route and changes in a number of suburban cities. Check the Avenza app on your phone. Updates are free if you’ve already downloaded an earlier version of the map.

Great Lakes Bike Tour

This bike tour touches four of the five Great Lakes: Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario. The tour also includes Niagara Falls, the Niagara River, the Welland Canals and Ontario vineyards.

The route follows the eastern shore of Lake Michigan where wind blown sands from as far away as North Dakota and Montana have piled up over thousands of years creating massive, and ever shifting, sand dunes. It turns east at Muskegon and cuts across the center of the lower peninsula of Michigan to the shore of Lake Huron. From there it heads south along the St. Claire River then crosses into Ontario, Canada and drops to the north shore of Lake Erie.

Lake Erie provides the scenic background to the route until Port Colborne where the ride turns north and follows bike paths along the Welland Canals to Lake Ontario. The Welland Canals are used by every ship that sails the waters from the St. Lawrence Seaway to the upper Great Lakes. The final segment of the tour rolls through the vineyards of Niagara on the Lake to the Niagara River, follows the river south to the Canadian side of the falls. Riders looking for transportation home can stay on the bike trail to Fort Erie and cross the Peace Bridge to Buffalo, NY. The route continues to either Amtrak or Buffalo International Airport.

Great Lakes Bike Tour part 1  Mobile map

Great Lakes Bike Tour part 2  Mobile map

Part 1 follows the eastern shore of Lake Michigan with its massive sand dunes, pretty shoreline towns and quiet back roads, then heads east across Central Michigan to the southwest shore of Lake Huron.

The route follows the shore south to the St. Claire River, passageway for the giant Lake Freighters that ply the Great Lakes.

Stop at Marine City, the point where the tour crosses the St. Claire into Canada, or take the ferry across the river and follow a bike path south to Port Lambton.

Part 2 of the tour connects to the north shore of Lake Erie, the third Great Lake of the tour, and follows it to the Niagara Falls/Welland Canals area.

Lake Freighters use the Welland Canals to bypass the Niagara River. A quiet bike path follows the canals north from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, the fourth and last Great Lake. The route continues east through Ontario vineyards to the Canadian bank of the Niagara River.

An attractive, although often busy, bike path follows the river south to Fort Erie and a bike friendly river crossing to the city of Buffalo, New York on the United States side. Buffalo has an international airport and Amtrak for your return trip, or you can extend your ride by touring the Allegheny Mountains and historic Virginia.

Download the Great Lakes Bike Tour to your phone or tablet.

Great Lakes Bike Tour part 1 : Lake Michigan shoreline, central Michigan, Lake Huron, St. Claire River

Great Lakes Bike Tour part 2 : North shore of Lake Erie, Welland Canals, Ontario vineyards, Niagara River, Niagara Falls

Great Lakes Bike Tour Narrative  A first person account of the tour.

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TIME TO EXPLORE

TAKE A GREAT LAKES VACATION ON YOUR BIKE

Organizing bike tours since 2011

We’re in business to be the best bike tour company in the Great Lakes area. We’ll continue to provide the best staff, safe options for biking on good tour routes, quality themes on each tour, great dining, and a comfortable bed to sleep in.

“Best vacation ever.”

All images on this site taken on our tours.

Fun Destinations

Delicious meals.

Our Trail Tours are back for 2024, and they are designed for those who prefer to avoid traffic. Our Small Group Safety Plan applies here for your safety. We offer tours on roads and trails across the region. In Michigan we ride on the best bike trails around, including on the Kal-Haven Trail from Kalamazoo to South Haven, on the White Pine Trail from Grand Rapids to Cadillac, and a new tour on the Lakelands Trail from Hamburg to Jackson, and on the Katy Trail in Missouri. These trail tours are 90-95% traffic free.

In addition, we’ve arranged for nice hotel or motel lodging. Some meals and trail SAG support are included.

Solo riders take note…

We get a fair number of solo travelers on each tour, and we’ve developed strategies to be sure everyone feels included in the group activities. Do you have a  non-riding partner  who wants to come along? We welcome all, please drop a note to Jim for details.

Safe Options for Biking

Quality Themes on Each Tour

Comfortable Beds to Sleep In

Watch our Bike Tours video to get a taste of what’s in store!

What are you waiting for?

Great Lakes Tour

Begin and end this 15-day journey amidst the grandeur of Niagara Falls. Averaging 85 miles each day, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, cross three states and Ontario, experience four scenic ferry rides and explore the city centers of Cleveland, Buffalo, Rochester, Toronto, and Kingston. Lock in your cleats for the ride of your life!

Itinerary / 1,128 Total Mileage

6/30/2024 - 7/15/2024, price per rider, booking process: step 1: click book now on the tour and room size you would like. step 2: you will receive an email with an invoice to pay the deposit. step 3: your booking confirmation will be sent via email., available promotions (all details in terms & conditions ).

Breakaway – lead the way and be one of the first ten to register for a 2% tour fee discount

Peloton – bring a friend and you’ll both receive the 5% tour fee discount

Pay by check or wire – tour fees paid by check or wire receive a 2% tour discount  

Non-refundable tour deposit:  $600

Full 15 Day Tour

Valid for 8 weeks

Double Room

Tour Price: $11,979

Tour Deposit: $600

Tour Dates: 6/30/2024 to 7/15/2024

Single Room

Tour Price: $14,529

Tour Price: $6,768

Tour Dates: 6/30/2024 to 7/8/2024

Tour Price: $8,098

Lake Ontario

Tour Price: $5,241

Tour Dates: 7/09/2024 to 7/15/2024

Tour Price: $6,431

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Great Lakes Relaxed

Level of support - fully supported.

Adventure Cycling’s fully supported tours — where all personal and group gear is transported by a vehicle each day — are larger groups (typically between 40 and 90 riders) who will camp together with occasional indoor overnights and enjoy catered meals. Indoor lodging options are often available at the participant’s expense (see “Accommodations” for more information). Learn More

Physical Difficulty - Level 2

A great option to get out and explore. The average daily mileage for the tour is 35-45 miles per day. There is a little more climbing involved, generally characterized by rolling terrain. An occasional hilly section may be part of the route. Average daily elevation gain is between 1000-2000 feet, with any single day total not exceeding 3000 feet. (Formerly Beginner+ tours)

Average Mileage: 30-45/day Average Elevation Gain Range: 1000-2000ft/day, high <3000 ft/day

We’ve incorporated the quiet roads and pleasurable riding of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) into our popular relaxed tour format. We’ve coupled the route’s gentle terrain and moderate daily distances with convenient luggage transport and delicious catering to offer a superb choice for the first-time bicycle tourist as well as the seasoned bike traveler who seeks a more laid-back cycling experience.

Starting at the top of the Lower Peninsula, we’ll shuttle across the Mackinac Bridge and begin pedaling north from the bottom of the U.P. We’ll explore numerous state parks replete with thick forests, wondrous waterfalls, and lake shore views, as well as visit Whitefish Bay, site of the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, and Sault Ste. Marie, home of the Soo Locks. We’ll catch a ferry to Mackinac Island and explore this special place where automobiles are noticeably absent. The car may be king in nearby Detroit, but in the U.P., the bicycle reigns supreme. Great Lakes, great parks, and great bicycle touring — they all add up to one great trip.

Space still available

“I most enjoyed the camaraderie of the group. Everyone was so easy going, and it was great to get to know all different kinds of people.” – Tour Participant

Day 1. Mackinaw City, Michigan, 0 miles

We’ll gather at our campground in the late afternoon for our orientation session. Early arrivers might take some time to explore the local surroundings, which boast an ecological mosaic of wetlands, forested-dune complexes, and sand-and-cobble beaches.

Day 2. Mackinaw City to Trout Lake, 41 miles

Utilizing the Mackinac Bridge Authority’s shuttle service, we’ll be motored across the famous bridge to the Upper Peninsula. The entire structure is five miles long, making it the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere, and it’s a gateway to a land of quiet roads and gentle riding.

Day 3. Trout Lake to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, 29 miles

It’s bike touring at its finest today as we navigate a series of good roads with light traffic. We’ll pass through open meadows, dense forests, and over gently rolling hills. Our ultimate destination is one of the gems of the U.P. — Tahquamenon Falls State Park, where Longfellow’s Hiawatha built his canoe “by the rushing Tahquamenaw.” Once there, we’ll set up camp for two nights.

Day 4. Tahquamenon Falls State Park Layover Day, 0-41 miles

You’ll have the option of hopping on your bike and riding to the Lower Falls and the grand Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. Or ride in the opposite direction to Whitefish Point to visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, which memorializes, among others, the SS Edmund Fitzgerald and its crew of 29 lost souls. If you prefer to stay off your bike, you can take advantage of the trails leading into the forest or to the shores of Lake Superior.

Day 5. Tahquamenon Falls State Park to Brimley, 40 miles

Leaving the state park, we’ll spin along the shore of Whitefish Bay then glide back into the cover of white birch, pine, and spruce in the Hiawatha National Forest. We’ll visit one of the highlights of the trip at the Point Iroquois Lighthouse, which was built in 1855 and guards the point where Lake Superior begins its dangerous-to-navigate rush into the St. Marys River.

Day 6. Brimley to Cedarville, 59 miles

Today we’ll visit Sault Ste. Marie and the unforgettable Soo Locks, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Wolverine State. The locks make it possible for large ships to travel between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes to the south as Superior’s water level is about 20 feet higher than that of Lake Huron. We’ll spend the night on the shores of Lake Huron in Cedarville.

Day 7. Cedarville to St. Ignace, 36 miles

Continuing along the northwestern reaches of Lake Huron, we’ll loop around St. Martin Bay and visit St. Ignace, where the French explorer and priest Jacques Marquette founded a mission in 1671. The town is considered the third-oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the U.S. Our overnight destination offers spectacular nighttime views of boats passing beneath the awe-inspiring bridge that wears the nickname “Mighty Mac.”

Day 8. St. Ignace to Mackinaw City, via Mackinac Island, 26 miles

Saving some of the best for last, we’ll take a ferry to Mackinac Island, where transportation is limited to foot, horse and buggy, and, luckily, bicycle. It’s a beautiful spot filled with Victorian charm, where only about 500 residents live year-round. There’s an eight-mile route encircling the island that runs right along the beach. Several other side trips are also available on roads cutting inland to battlefields, old cemeteries, and the impressive limestone formation known as Arch Rock. At the end of our stay, we’ll board a different ferry bound for the Lower Peninsula for a brief ride back to our starting point in Mackinaw City.

Accommodations -

Meals - catered.

Our catering staff will provide all meals and rest stops will be located approximately every 25 miles. You’ll start each day with a hot breakfast, followed by a mid-morning rest stop to fuel you on to lunch. Another rest stop awaits you mid-afternoon and you’ll be rewarded each evening with a sumptuous dinner. Vegetarian and special dietary needs will be accommodated, though food selection may be limited in some locations.

Physical Difficulty -

Terrain - gentle.

Gentle terrain means mostly flat roads and trails and is considered a relaxed type of ride. These tours typically have around 1,000 feet of elevation gain per day or less, and the grade is typically 1-4%. (0-19 vertical feet/mile).

Know before you go

Unfortunately, this tour cannot support eBikes due to the motorized vehicle restriction on Mackinac Island.

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail

The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is a signed bike route stretching over 2250 miles, connecting 155 communities and First Nations along the Canadian shores of the Great Lake and St. Lawrence River, and on this great tour we’ll cycle the first 350 mile, eastern section of this incredible trail from Montreal  to Toronto traversing charming communities and taking in the breathtaking scenery. About 30% of the trail is off-road bike path, with the remainder being quiet backroads following the remarkable St. Lawrence Seaway and the stunning shoreline of Lake Ontario.

TOUR PRICING

Per Person Double Occ: $2789  --   Single Occ: $3389

A deposit of $500 per person is required at time of reservation. You will be invoiced for balance, including any discounts or adjustments, in 2 separate installments. Final balance due 90 days prior to tour.

THE ESSENTIALS

Duration:  9 Days / 8 Nights

Difficulty:    Easy to Moderate

Total Miles:   335 --  Avg. Daily Miles: 40 - 45 miles

Meals:  7 Breakfasts; 2 Lunches; 2 Dinners

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Download Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Montreal

7:00 PM  Tour orienationa at hotel.

Day 2: Dorval to Cornwall

Cycling: 50 Miles

Our tour begins in just west of Montreal cycling along the lovely Soulanges Canal Trail for our first 15+ miles. From there, we’re on quiet riverside roads as we follow the beautiful St. Lawrence River as we make our way to Cornwall and our stop the night.

Day 3: Cornwall to Prescott

Cycling: 24 / 40 / 51 Miles

Today’s ride sure has a lot to offer! We cycle from our hotel and in 5 miles we are reach the Lost Villages Museum. Its name designation comes from the villages “lost” when they were flooded during the creation of the St. Lawrence Seaway, and several buildings from each small town were moved to their current location to preserve their history.  We continue cycling and at mile 19 we reach the Upper Canada Village with more than 40 historic buildings which were moved to this site for preservation, and where period-dressed staff actively portray rural Canadian life in 1866. Riders have the option of spending the full afternoon enjoying Upper Canada Village, or may continue cycling, or a combination of both.

Day 4: Prescott to Kingston

Cycling:  48 Miles

Our day begins with a short shuttle to the Thousand Islands Parkway trailhead to avoid 20 miles on busier roads. From there it’s gorgeous cycling with outstanding views of the St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands in every direction. In Gananoque we stop for lunch and treat you to a scenic cruise of the Thousand Islands. After the cruise its back on the bikes for a spectacular ride along Howe’s Island as we make our way to historic Kingston for our night’s stay.

Day 5:  Kingston to Picton

Cycling: 43 Miles

Today’s ride is easy and relaxed as we cycle a nearly straight line from Kingston to picturesque Picton. Once in town spend time exploring this colorful community with its Bird House City, beautiful harbor and charming main street, with wonderful shops and restaurants.

Day 6: Picton to Cobourg

Cycling: 35 / 50 / 63 Miles

Today’s ride ends with in lovely Cobourg with it’s fabulous beach, so we’ve provided 3 milage options to allow for a shorter day of cycling and a leisurely afternoon on the beach, or opt to ride 48 miles or the full 63 miles.  No matter your choice, you’re sure to enjoy the charming town of Cobourg with quaint main streets and beautiful lake views, and our lodging is in the historic King George Inn, which is an old jail converted into a charming and kitschy inn!

Day 7: Cobourg to Whitby

Today is ride & glide day with easy scenic cycling as you coast along the northern shore of Lake Ontario. We drop the kickstands at Darlington Beach for a picnic lunch and relaxing on the beach before continuing on to Oshawa, our stop for the night.

Day 8: Whitby to Scarborough

Cycling: 30 Miles

Our last day of cycling does not disappoint as the gorgeous scenery and outstanding views of Lake Ontario continue as we knockout our last 30 miles taking us to Guild Park. In the evening we’ll enjoy a group dinner social as we celebrate our completion of this incredible tour!

Day 9:  Departure

Optional return shuttle to Burlington VT

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Great Lakes Region Cycling

The shores of the Great Lakes, along with the thousands of interior lakes, make for picturesque, moderate cycling.

Wisconsin’s Door County

8 Days [Port Washington – Washington Island – De Pere] Wisconsin’s Door County is a favorite bicycling destination. The state parks and country roads offer terrific scenery and and plenty of seclusion, through charming villages, all the way up to the famous Washington Island, then back down on the northwest side.

Great Lakes of Michigan Tour

8 Days [Traverse City-Leelenau-Mackinac Island-Boyne City] Explore the Great Lakes region of the northwestern corner of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Sleeping Bear Dunes, Leelanau Peninsula, historic villages of Charlevoix and Petosky, and unique Mackinac Island.

Minnesota’s Land of 10,000 Lakes

9 Days [Duluth-Ely-Grand Rapids-Gull Lake] Starting in Duluth, we’ll ride the many paved bike paths around the state. Our days are filled with shoreline rides along Lake Superior, and the countless interior lakes. Enjoy the evenings at lakeside resorts.

Timberline Adventures / 214 Mohawk Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 / 1-800-417-2453 or 303-664-8388 / Fax: 303-664-8395

Routes, mileage and accommodations are subject to change due to safety, road/trail conditions, weather and availability.

© 2017 Timberline Adventures. All Rights Reserved. | Web Design by VistaWorks

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An Adventure Cycling Dream Come True

The Great Lakes region is one of the most beautiful parts of Canada. And it's one that travellers driving across the country often don't have time to stop and soak in. But what if you could travel the area by bike, taking in the sights and making comfy stops along the way? Well, guess what—now you can.

The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail —part of the longest recreational trail in the world, Canada’s Great Trail—has been in the works for the past 20 years, thanks to the efforts of Ontario charitable organization the Waterfront Regeneration Trust. This summer, when it’s completed, it’ll be a bucket-list destination for any cyclist with a sense of adventure. 

With a starting point on the Quebec border at the east end of Ontario, the trail skirts the shoreline of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie before turning north. The multi-surface trail is already an adventure cycling dream, but it’s the latest segment addition that will take the adventure to a new level. Welcome to Northern Ontario and the Lake Huron North Channel expansion .

Stretching 380 km from Sudbury to Sault Ste. Marie, the trail travels along quiet back roads and paths as it traverses some of the most spectacular landscapes in Ontario, serving up rocky shorelines, picturesque Mennonite and Amish farmsteads, rushing waterfalls, gently flowing rivers, sandy beaches, and thick forests. Twenty-six communities and First Nations dot its length, offering opportunities to stop, rest, and explore. Stay the night in a lakeside cottage, partake in some locally caught smoked fish, or enjoy a refreshing end-of-the-day local brew.

While the full 380-km route makes for a very pleasant five-day excursion, there’s no need to consider this trip in all-or-nothing terms, as there are plenty of opportunities along the route to explore a day or two at a time, and skip highway sections altogether. In both Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie, the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail uses existing trail networks, making for excellent day trip opportunities, especially with kids in tow. Travelling families should be sure to check out Science North in Sudbury and the Bushplane Museum in Sault Ste. Marie.

Here are some routes along the trail that can be enjoyed back-to-back or as their own separate day trips, depending on your schedule.

Sudbury – Ramsey to Robinson

A 9-km, family-friendly trip between Lakes Ramsey and Robinson in Sudbury via the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail and Junction Creek Path.  Note: cyclists must dismount on the Bell Park boardwalk and when entering the tunnel beneath Elgin Street.

What to see

• Ramsey Lake and Bell Park host many events throughout the summer and fall, such as the Northern Lights Festival Boreal (July 7–10), New Music Fest (September 16–17), and more. 
• Science North : A must-visit stop for travelling families featuring displays, demonstrations, live animals, and more.
• Art Gallery of Sudbury : Featuring an incredible collection of local works.
• Laurentian Conservation Area : Travelling down the bike paths of Ramsey Lake Road, past the university, provides access to these trails. It's a great place for cycling and for checking out views of the surrounding lakes and Sudbury landscapes.

Where to stay The Townplace Suites by Marriot : An Ontario by Bike-certified hotel.

Rider resources

There are no bike shops on this route; however, the following bike shops are located in Sudbury. They offer parts, service, and rentals (where noted).

• Sessions Ride Company (bike rentals): 609 Notre Dame Ave, Sudbury, (705) 523-7400
• Adventure365 : 444 Barry Downe Rd, Sudbury, (705) 222-2772
• The Outdoor Store (bike rentals): 2140 Long Lake Rd, Sudbury (705) 522-1755

Espanola to Massey

Enjoy a 28-km, one-way tour between the towns of Espanola and Massey, through the scenic LaCloche Range.

• A stop at the falls in Chutes Provincial Park  is a must.
• Explore the region's history at the Massey Museum .

Where to eat

• In Espanola, check out  Cortina Restaurant , a few blocks off the trail, for great Italian cuisine.
• In Massey, check out Back Home Bistro for a sit-down meal,  Poirier's Confectionery and Pizza for a quick bite, or take your lunch to Chutes Provincial Park for a picnic.

Where to stay Pinewood Motor Inn in Espanola or Mohawk Motel in Massey.

Sylvan Circle Route

A 96-km loop for experienced cyclists, this tour incorporates over 40 km of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail before travelling the scenic Sylvan Valley.

What to see 

• Ekoba Museum (Echo Bay): Celebrating the history of the town.
• Loon Dollar Monument (Echo Bay): The "world's biggest loonie" is a classic photo op on the tour.
• Bruce Mines Museum (Bruce Mines): Local museum with some intriguing historical artefacts.
• If travelling in fall, don't miss the Sylvan Circle Tour featuring the work of local artists and artisans.

• Lucey Loo's (Echo Bay): Family-friendly bar and grill with homemade fries.
• Bucci's Place (Echo Bay): Burgers, fries and breakfasts in a down-home setting.
• Bobbers (Bruce Mines): Specializing in homemade pies and the local specialty, butter tarts .
• Red House Ice Cream Shop (Bruce Mines): Perfect stop to cool off on your journey.

Where to stay Bruce Bay Cottages : Scenic cottages on a private island with a classic lighthouse.

St. Joseph Island

A great weekend getaway, popular with local cyclists. Make the 70-km trip around the island on low-traffic roads, visiting beaches, heritage forts, and the villages of Hilton Beach and Richards Landing.

• Fort St. Joseph : This National Historic Site is the ruins of a fort where the War of 1812 began.
• St. Joseph Island Museum : Featuring exhibits on the island's history as well as special events throughout the summer.
• Adcock's Woodland Gardens : Gorgeous large-scale garden with free admission.
• The Island features many festivals and events in the summer months. Check here for more info.

• La Terrazza Franzisi : Sumptuous Italian food in Richards Landing.
• St. Jo's Diner : Down-home diner in Richards Landing.
• Tilt’n Hilton Steakhouse : Bar and grill in Hilton Beach.
• The Dry Dock : Rustic old-time restaurant with burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast in Hilton Beach.

Where to stay

• Maria's Cabins : Friendly lakeside cottage resort in Richards Landing.
• Stonefield House : Idyllic B&B in Richards Landing.
• Hilton Beach Inn : Deluxe motel rooms and suites in Hilton Beach.

There are no bike shops on St. Joseph Island. The following location offers limited bicycle parts:

• Kentvale Home Hardware (Limited parts. Air. No service): 712 K Line Rd, Richards Landing, ON P0R 1J0, (705) 246-2002

Hitting the highway

Please keep in mind that while this route makes every effort to stay on country roads, there are a few instances where traveling along Highway 17 cannot be avoided. The Ministry of Transportation is paving the shoulders of these sections to assure a safe cycling experience. To learn the status of this work, people are encouraged to visit the interactive map below. A gray line indicates work is ongoing, red indicates the route is ready to ride.

“One of the challenges to establishing a route for the North was six sections (about 60 km) where we were required to use Highway 17 to achieve continuity,” explains Marlaine Koehler, the Trust’s executive director. “As part of its CycleON strategy, the Ministry invested $9M to construct paved shoulders on those sections of the highway.” It is this historic level of participation and investment that opened Ontario’s North for cycle tourism. The new shoulders will greatly improve conditions for the seasoned rider; however, cycling Highway 17 is not for novices. The route has high traffic volumes including consistent truck traffic.

While the new Lake Huron North Channel expansion puts Northern Ontario on the cycle touring map, the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is not quite finished yet. With new Grand Bend to Tobermory and north to Manitoulin Island sections well underway, the vision of the longest recreational trail network in the world becomes that much closer to becoming a reality. If you consider yourself an adventure cyclist, a “bike packer,” or you just like a good old-fashioned bike ride, pack your bags—Northern Ontario and the the Lake Huron North Channel expansion are waiting for you.

Looking for more ideas? Visit  Ontario By Bike , or read about more Great Lakes Waterfront Trail options here .

The Lake Huron North Channel expansion of the Trail was made possible with support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, Trans Canada Trail, Tourism Northern Ontario, and Province of Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation.

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Martin Lortz is a freelance photographer/writer specializing in the outdoor lifestyle. Whether he is covering adventure motorcycling, kayak fishing or family oriented outdoor pursuits, his passion for capturing the beauty of nature and the people that partake in it, is evident in his work. His photos and articles have appeared in magazines such as Ski Canada, Explore, Bike, Mountain Life, Couloir, Kayak Angler and Family Camping, as well as in calendars, catalogs and brochures.

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Great Lakes Waterfront Trail

Photo Credit: www.WaterfrontTrail.org

Stretching over 3600km, the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is a route connecting over 151 communities and First Nations along the Canadian shores of the Great Lakes: Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, Lake Erie, Detroit River and Lake St Clair, Lake Huron, Georgian Bay and the North Channel.With  hundreds of parks and natural areas including wetlands, forests and beaches along the way, the trail was created to protect, connect and celebrate the world’s largest group of freshwater lakes and has become a well-loved and used recreation, fitness and green transportation amenity plus a world-renowned tourism attraction.The fully signed Trail uses the safest infrastructure possible, a mix of both on-road and off-road facilities, and is primarily paved, with sections of unpaved path and gravel roads. It can be enjoyed for as part of a day trip or on a multi-day long distance cycling adventure.

Visit  www.waterfronttrail.org  for for more information and resources to help plan a day trip or overnight cycling tour along one of Ontario’s Trails of Distinction, including:

• A Mobile friendly interactive map
• Free downloadable and printable PDF Maps
• Family friendly day trip ideas
• Suggested self-guided cycling tours
• Great Waterfront Trail Adventure Annual Cycling Holiday
• Cycle + Transit – Trail to GO
• Regional Loops
• Great Lakes to Greenbelt

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail – Related Blogs

Rolling Into Fall on the Highland Hustle

Guest 2023-11-06T19:20:38+00:00 September 1, 2022 | 0 Comments

Time flies, seasons change, but the ride must go on. Yes, the long warm summer days might be fading to memory, but no need to fret; some of the best cycling opportunities Ontario has to offer are still ahead. Welcome to fall, the rolling hills of Durham and Northumberland counties and the Highland Hustle cycling adventure.

The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, Two Days at a Time

Guest 2023-11-06T19:20:24+00:00 February 28, 2022 | 0 Comments

Planning a cycling adventure in Ontario is challenging in the best possible way. There are so many options to choose from – touring routes, bike packing adventures, mountain bike trails, gravel loops – so much to explore, so little time. The impressive Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is one route worthy of any cyclist's bucket list.

Chipping Away At The Caledon-Lakeside Ride

admin 2023-11-06T19:19:50+00:00 May 26, 2021 | 0 Comments

When cycling enthusiast and photographer Martin Lortz learned of the nine cycling loops showcasing the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail and the Greenbelt Route, he first thought, that's pretty cool. After a bit more research, a goal for the season solidified, to ride and check all these loops off the list. Discovering that one of the rides could be practically accessed from his front door and with riding season just around the corner, he thought there is no better time than now, and recently got rolling.

Established in 1988, the Waterfront Regeneration Trust is the non-profit organization leading the movement to create a Waterfront Trail for the Canadian Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.

• Destinations
• Beyond Great Lakes

Great Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1 – A Bike Ride Across Michigan

Expanding my bike touring experience, I decided go on a longer – one month – tour, to ride around Lake Michigan.

I began my ride straight from home, in northeast suburbs of Detroit. Therefore, to get to Lake Michigan shoreline I decided to follow the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1.

Some 20 days later, after I finished my ride around Lake Michigan, I followed, pretty much, the same route back home.

Since the whole story was quite long, I broke it into two parts.This is part 1 of the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1 post.

(The circle tour around Lake Michigan is a part of five posts starting with the Lake Michigan Circle Tour – The Great Bike Touring Adventure (part 1) .) 

Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1 – from Detroit suburbs to South Haven and Back

Not everybody is familiar with the recently created the Great Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1, so let me briefly talk about it. The route is the first one of five proposed routes connecting two different of the Great Lakes, and cutting through Lower and Upper Peninsulas – three in the Lower and two in the Upper.

The Route 1, which is the only one officially open right now, connects South Haven with Port Huron .

One important thing, that I want to point out here, is that the Route 1 is NOT A TRAIL! The route consists on many local trail connected by some local not-so-busy, or sometimes quite busy streets and roads. Therefore, the word ‘trail’ should be removed from the official name, because it’s misleading. It should be called the Great Lake-to-Lake Route 1. At least, till the time when all the gaps between the trails are closed.

The whole stretch from South Haven to Port Huron amounts to 275 miles (440 km).

More details about the route is given later on in the daily segments. I am actually providing very detailed description or my route hoping that it will help other people with planning their trip. I, myself, while planning my ride, was looking for information like that. However, if you just want to read about my daily experiences, but are not interested in detailed trip routing skip the segments in italics.

It took four days for me to get from Detroit area to South Haven. I began my ride in the middle of June. And I rode back home – in July – after my tour around Lake Michigan.

I want to put a disclaimer right here! So, I did not ride the whole Great Lake-to-Lake Trail Route 1. I began my journey in the suburbs of Detroit. It means that I did not ride the section from Port Huron to Richmond (from Richmond you follow the Macomb Orchard Trail , that was, albeit not in the entirety, part of my route). And I will talk about it more later on.

As I have mentioned above, it took me four days to get to South Haven, where my ride around Lake Michigan began. In these four days, I rode the following sections:

• Detroit suburbs to Pickney/Hell area.
• Pickney/Hell to Albion.
• Albion to Kalamazoo.
• Kalamazoo to South Haven.

Each section consisted of mostly trail riding, but included some road riding as well.

Detroit to Hell (65 miles/104 km)

I began the ride on Macomb Orchard Trail that stretches for 24 miles from Rochester to Richmond. It is a paved trail and probably one of the nicest trails in southeastern Michigan.

After few miles, the trail ends at the border of Macomb and Oakland counties, at Dequindre Rd. There it joins, on the western side of the road, the Clinton River Trail, on which I continued west.

Clinton River Trail is one of the worst trails that I have ridden on in Michigan. The reason for it is its surface. It used to be mostly gravel (there is a short old asphalt section close to Auburn Hills). However, at one point some genius decided to cover it with recycled asphalt! That made it rough and bumpy and hard to ride. Many people still use the trail because it’s close to where they live, but it is horrible, in my humble opinion. So, going on it was slow.

The trail has a “discontinuity” around city of Pontiac. When you get to Opdyke Rd, you need to follow a trail/sidewalk south on the eastern side of the road. Do not follow the Google Maps recommended routing. It is not a good way to go!

By the way, for those of you who are not from Detroit area, the city of Pontiac, that just north of the path, is not a safest place to stop . So, if you need to resupply on anything, do it before or after – in the area of the city of Rochester, or later, when you get to West Bloomfield.

The West Bloomfield Trail is a gravel trail. It is quite nice and smooth. (You can read more about it in my post – West Bloomfield Trail …) It is a short trail, but since it connects to other trails at both ends, it is quite popular. At times, it offers some nice views of nature, even though, it goes through some quite congested urban areas.

I kept following the West Bloomfield Trail till it ended at Haggerty Rd. There, I crossed the road and kept going west on the next trail.

It is one of the newest trails in Michigan – the Michigan Air Line Trail. (You read more about it in my post – Michigan Air Line Trail …)

It is another short trail, at 6 miles. But since it is connected to other trails at both ends, it is also quite popular. It is a paved trail, and the busy road crossings have some modern warning aids for the road traffic.

The trail ends at N Wixom Rd. (Don’t follow the Google map routing, as it is incorrect!).

This was the first “break” in the Lake-to-Lake “Trail” where you have to ride on sometimes busy roads. Whitmore Lake Rd has a shoulder, and is not bad. But it is not a trail.

I followed the trail past Pickney, till I got to Cedar Lake Rd.

Even though there are two different recreation areas, Pickney Recreation Area and Brighton Recreation Area , both with camping, I could not find a spot there to reserve. It is summer, and both areas, being close to big cities, are very busy.

Therefore, I reserved a spot in private campground  few miles south of the trail – Hell Creek Campground . It was only about 2 miles south of the trail down that Cedar Lake Rd, which by the way, is a dirt road. However, it was not easy to ride. The road was quite hilly, and I was already tired.

Most of the day I had some headwind. And in the afternoon, it rained few times – mostly light rain, except the last one, which was a downpour. But it lasted only about half hour. Luckily, the downpour came when I stopped at the store, shorty before getting to the campground.

I setup my tent, took a shower, ate and went to bed.

It was a first day of my month long tour, and it went well. I was quite tired at the end of the day, but since it was the first day, and I expected it. I have been biking almost daily since the Spring, but now the bike was loaded with 50 lbs. (23 kg) of gear.

Hell to Albion (62 miles/99 km)

I got up early around 7, but did not leave the campground till 9:30. There was a lot of condensation on the tent and I did not want to pack it wet, so I had to try it to dry it as much as possible.

When I finally got on the road, I did not ride back to the trail along Cedar Lake Rd. I went through Hell instead.

Hell is a very small town southeast of Pickney. I rode that way only so I could say that “I went through Hell”…

So, from the campground I went south (right) on Cedar Lake Rd, and soon turned west (right) on Patterson Lake Rd/D32. And soon I went through Hell.

I wouldn’t even know it was Hell, if not for a place like Hell Hole Bar with its prominent sign.

At the time when I arrive at the west trailhead (June 2022), you could see that they began working one the stretch that suppose to take the trail further southwest to Jackson.

By the way, the Jackson Historic Prison looks like an interesting place, and I found out later that you can tour it.

I was glad to be of the roads, because some of them were quite busy, and a little uncomfortable. It was another “discontinuity” in the so-called ‘trail’!

Most of the roads between Concord and Albion don’t have any shoulder. However, the traffic on them is minimal. During my ride all the way from Concord to Albion, I encountered only two cars.

I think, it was when I was getting out of Concord, I got chased by a dog, which later was joined by another one. Luckily, I was able to get a away… It was the only encounter with chasing dogs on my month long tour…

I was staying tonight at Warmshowers host’s place in Albion. I got to town earlier, and therefore decided to first get something to eat before going to my host’s house.

When I was riding on the Albion River Trail I began to hear some music. There were some festivities going on somewhere. I kept following the sound.

When I got close, I could see that there was some kind of festival happening in town.

I stopped on W Ash St, just on the side of Albion Malleable Brewing Company . 

As I soon found out, there was a blue grass festival in progress.

Before I could get off my bike a guy came over. He said: “HI! I’m Charles… You’re hungry? You’re thirsty? We can get you food. We can get you something to drink…” While I was locking my bike he came back with a cup of cold beer. I didn’t know it at the time, but it was one of the co-owners of the pub…

A little later I ordered some food, while occasionally talking with Charles.

Later he asked me if I needed a place to stay. I told him that I was staying with Warmshowers host. Of course, he knew who I was talking about. Albion is a small town. Everybody knows everybody. And since there was only one Warmshowers host in town, he knew exactly who it was. He said: “She is here at the festival. We will find her for you.”

After eating, I went to my host’s house. She was already there waiting for me, and eager to return to the festival. I quickly took a shower and then went to her backyard right on the Kalamazoo River to setup my tent. Then I rode back to downtown to enjoy the festival. I met more people there, drank more beer, enjoyed the music. Came back to my tent around 10:30.

So far, the trip was unfolding quite nicely.

Sometimes looks can be deceiving. I did not know much about Albion before getting there. When I got there I got the impression that it was a friendly and nice small college town. However, I recently happened to read an article listing the most dangerous cities in Michigan and Albion is high on that list. (Read about it here in one of the articles about high crime cities in Michigan.)

By the way, my next stop – Kalamazoo – is another one high on the high crime list.

To be continued…

• Michigan Trails – Great Lake to Lake Trail – Rte 1 (east)
• Michigan Trails – Great Lake to Lake Trail – Rte 1 (west)
• The Great Lake-to-Lake Trail RTE 1
• Great Lake to Lake Trails   (Do NOT trust! Looks official, but can’t find out who owns the site!)
• Clinton River Trail
• Michigan Trails – Clinton River Trail
• Michigan Air Line Trail
• Michigan Trails – Michigan Air Line Trail
• Michigan Trails – Huron Valley Trail
• Jackson County Parks – Falling Waters Trail
• Michigan Trails – Falling Waters Trail
• Michigan trails – Albion River Trail
• Calhoun County Trailway Alliance
• Michigan Trails – Calhoun County Trailway
• Michigan Trails – Battle Creek Linear Park
• Michigan Trails – Kalamazoo River Valley Trail
• Michigan Trails – Kal-Haven Trail
• Michigan Trails – Van Buren Trail State Park

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Get on the water with Finger Lakes Cycle Boats. New Watkins Glen business preps for debut

Finger lakes cycle boats, based in watkins glen, is preparing to put guests on the water with a unique experience beginning this spring..

Adventure awaits on Seneca Lake.

A new business, Finger Lakes Cycle Boats , is preparing to put guests on the water with a unique experience beginning this spring.

Finger Lakes Cycle Boats features 10 pedal stations situated around a bar, allowing guests to pedal at their own pace during 90-minute excursions on the lake. Footspeed isn’t the only thing powering the boat; an engine is ready to take over if guests get tired or prefer to spend the trip enjoying the sights and their company aboard the vessel, which has space for 16 guests along with a captain and deckhand.

The company was founded by Chris Marriott and Sam Hale. Marriott, a licensed whitewater raft guide who resides in the Ithaca area, has been thinking about the idea ever since he saw pedal boats during a visit to Portland, Oregon nearly a decade ago.

“We’re starting to find some of the younger clientele want that short spurt of entertainment where they can take some photos and brag about it a little bit. It’s dialing into that culture of our modern, unique experience,” he said. “It’s tailored to those folks who really want a short, engaging trip that dials into the outdoors but also skates on that adult entertainment side.”

Hale, of Burdett, said Watkins Glen was the ideal place to launch the venture.

“The great outdoors brings people to the Finger Lakes, whether it be hiking through the gorge or getting out on a kayak, getting out on a pedal boat,” said Hale. “It combines that active lifestyle along with all the great breweries, wineries and food providers we have.”

What is the experience like aboard Finger Lakes Cycle Boats?

Finger Lakes Cycle Boats encourages guests to bring their own food and drinks aboard the vessel. Liquor is the only drink not permitted. Coolers for hot summer days are built into the boat, and Bluetooth speakers allow guests to further customize the experience with their own music.

Riders aren’t limited to the pedaling stations; the custom-built, 30-foot catamaran is big enough to walk and dance around on as the “floating pedal pub” travels scenic Seneca Lake. A canopy offers protection from the sun and rain.

Guests can rent out the entire boat for private events like bachelorette parties, birthdays, and corporate outings, or board in smaller groups and mingle with others.

"There’s not very many points of access if you're not from here and you don't know somebody with a boat," said Hale. “It’s just a different experience than going on a boat with 50 or 150 strangers. I think people are going to like that aspect. It’s so much more personal and a little more casual.”

All ages are welcome, but kids weighing under 75 pounds are required to wear a life vest while onboard. Passengers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 25 or older.

More: NY offering free I Love NY eclipse glasses. Here's where you can get your hands on them

When, where will Finger Lakes Cycle Boats open?

Finger Lakes Cycle Boats is building a dock at the public pier at 1 N. Franklin St.

“We felt that to capture the clientele and the experience of Watkins Glen, we really wanted to be right there, right behind the Harbor Hotel to allow walk ups to come in,” said Marriott. “You don't need a ride to get there. You can just be in Watkins Glen at the public pier and hop on. Word’s gotten around and people have been very receptive.”

Pricing varies by season, days of the week, and number of tickets. A group of four is listed at $55 per person for a weekend boat ride. Tickets can be booked online .

Marriott and Hale are planning to hire six to eight employees to start the season. They’re targeting May 17 for the official maiden voyage. The season will tentatively run through at least Columbus Day.

“We’re excited to bring something new and exciting to Watkins. The support from everybody has been really appreciated and helpful because it's a scary process starting any new business,” said Hale. “When you tell it to somebody and they get excited, it gets us excited."

Monument To The Fallen In The Great Patriotic War

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Monument To The Fallen In The Great Patriotic War, Klimovsk

• (2.88 mi) Country Club Aivengo Hotel Jungle
• (2.53 mi) Podmoskovye-Podolsk
• (2.71 mi) Hotel Sportivnaya
• (2.98 mi) Pakhra
• (1.92 mi) Villa Regina Apart Hotel
• (0.10 mi) Mars
• (0.29 mi) Gran
• (0.42 mi) Globus Restaurant
• (0.35 mi) Bistro on 40 Let Oktyabrya St.
• (0.11 mi) Klakson

Monument To The Fallen In The Great Patriotic War

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Monument To The Fallen In The Great Patriotic War (Klimovsk, Russia): Address, Free Attraction Reviews - Tripadvisor

• (4.61 km) Country Club Aivengo Hotel Jungle
• (4.05 km) Podmoskovye-Podolsk
• (4.34 km) Hotel Sportivnaya
• (4.76 km) Pakhra
• (3.07 km) Villa Regina Apart Hotel
• (0.17 km) Mars
• (0.47 km) Gran
• (0.67 km) Globus Restaurant
• (0.56 km) Bistro on 40 Let Oktyabrya St.
• (0.17 km) Klakson

Registration and Fees

We are so glad you are interested in joining us on the 2024 Great Lakes Waterfront Trail Adventure to “Cycle the North” between Sault Ste. Marie and Manitoulin Island August 13 -August 20 2024.

Registration for the 2024 Great Waterfront Trail Adventure opens on January 3 2024.

Follow us on social media or join our newsletter for updates.

The  sliders below provide information regarding fees, what’s included, and what isn’t.

If you have any questions please check out the FAQs or contact us at tourdirector [at] wrtrust.com or 416-943-8080.

We are delighted to let you  know that there will be no price increase in 2024 –  2024 GWTA  registration is available at exactly the same price as  last year :

IMPORTANT: Please note that in addition to the registration fee there will also be additional expenses in relation to accommodations and travel to and from the North. Please see our Accommodations page for further details.

• Early Bird : 3 Jan 2024 – Jan 31 2024 – $835 + $108.55 H.S.T +  processing fees $47.98 = $991.53
• Feb 1 to May 30, 2024: $935 + 121.55 HST + $53.72 processing fee  = $1110.27
• Lists of what is and is not included are included below.

Waterfront Trail Champion – Fundraising Option:

• $700 +  $91 HST + $40.23 processing fee   = $831.23
• $1,000 required fundraising
• Find out more about the League of Extraordinary Waterfront Trail Champions and how to become one.

Personal Support Vehicle

• $400 + $52.00 HST + $22.98 processing fee  = $474.98

Student rider (aged 16- 25):

• $700 + $91.00 HST + $40.23 processing fee  =  $831.23

The 2024 GWTA is considered unsuitable for children under the age of 16.

Meals : No breakfasts are included in Sault Ste. Marie since we will all be staying in hotels but all remaining breakfasts (5) , one reception, one lunch and three community dinners are included in the 2024 registration fee. Meals will be prepared and served in compliance with the public health restrictions in place at the time.  Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten Free diets are accommodated.

All other meals are on your own in the local communities–one of the ways the GWTA supports local businesses and promotes communities. It also allows you to schedule and budget your lunches and dinners according to your needs.

Transportation

Please note: Transportation is subject to an additional fee and covers the cost of transporting you, your bike and luggage. All bookings will be handled by our partners at CAA Travel. Bookings will open in early Spring 2024 and registered participants will be notified by email when registration for the coach bus opens up.

Transportation to the Start ( Sault Ste. Marie) Tuesday August 13 2024

For the 2024 GWTA Long Term Parking will be  located at the  ride finish; NEMI Recreation Centre in Little Current on Manitoulin Island. Coach buses will be departing this location for Sault Ste. Marie mid morning on Tuesday August 13.  Please note that it is important that all bikes are presented for bike packing by experienced volunteers into transportation by 9am  on 13th August.

You may wish to stay overnight on Monday August 12 close to or in the town of Little Current. Little Current is located at the North end of Manitoulin Island and easily accessed by car from Sudbury. Hotels and Motels can be found at varying price points on Manitoulin Island, in Espanola and in Sudbury.

Please note: Transportation is subject to an additional fee and covers the cost of transporting you, your bike and luggage.

Merchandise (aka "The Jersey!")

2024 SOUVENIR JERSEY?

Too soon!  We’ll be thrilled to share the GWTA commemorative jersey design with you in coming months. For now, feast your eyes on the popular design for Cycle the North 2019.

Payment Methods

Credit Card:

Payment by credit card will be processed securely by PayPal. You do not need to have a Pay Pal account for amounts under $1,500. If registering more than one participant and total comes to more than $1500, you will be prompted to create a PayPal account for added security.

Included in Registration Fee

• Breakfasts from 16 August – 20  August, served buffet style and in compliance with the public health restrictions in place at the time. We ask that you make your own arrangements for breakfast in Sault Ste. Marie.
• Opening night reception in Sault Ste Marie – location to be confirmed shortly.
• Lunch mid ride in Desbarats on Thursday, August 15.
• Group dinners in Bruce Mines on Thursday August 15 and in Blind River on Friday, August 16.
• Celebration Dinner in Little Current, Manitoulin Island.
• Designated route for the week, including Ride with GPS files and printed maps
• Printed itinerary with maps.
• Long-term parking in Barrie.
• Programmed events and activities other than cycling (some may be subject to an additional charge).
• Luggage transfer (subject to weight & size restrictions).
• Emergency support including medical.
• A team of experienced volunteers to deliver luggage, provide on-route first aid, basic bike repair, help with navigation, and good cheer.
• Commemorative Finishers Medal.
• Tour organization and support.
• CAA Mechanical Support for on-route repairs.
• Camping is available in the communities of Bruce Mines, Blind River, Spanish and Little Current. Note that there is no camping in Sault Ste Marie.

Not Included in Registration Fee

• Non-camping  accommodations such as Hotels, B&Bs and Air B&B – supported accommodations may be booked through CAA Travel OR you can book independently with smaller accommodation providers – see Accommodations page for more details.
• Camping is NOT available in Sault Ste. Marie- there are budget friendly accommodations available at Sault College for those that don’t wish to stay in hotels. See Accommodations page for more details.
• Snacks – if you have food allergies or preferences we recommend that you bring your own cycling snacks.
• All lunches ( except 15 August where lunch is provided). Dinner on August 14th, 17th, 18th. There are communities and choices available for lunches and dinners.
• Optional cycling and non-cycling activities – for example a guided hike
• Commemorative cycling jerseys – these will be offered at an additional cost in the Spring of 2024.

Congratulations on registering for the 2024 Great Waterfront Trail Adventure!  We are excited to have you join us and want to make sure that you have everything you need in order to have a great experience. Please use this checklist to help you organize your trip.

• Completed Registration for the 2024 GWTA – Cycle the North.
• Booked accommodations if planning to stay in hotels.
• A list of what to pack can be found  here .
• Order and pay for your jersey when it becomes available.
• Take your bike into the shop for a complete tune-up and purchase an extra tube or two in case of a flat. Consider changing your tires to accommodate stretches of gravel riding on the GWTA 2024.
• Check out the itinerary pages for extra activities that you may be interested in.

Rules have been created to help create a safe experience for everyone. Anyone who violates the rules will have their wristband removed at the discretion of the Tour Director and will be ejected from the Tour. There will be no refunds for people ejected for public health and safety violations.

• All participants are asked to notify GWTA staff in the event of feeling unwell. We will help you arrange for your departure from the tour and conduct the necessary follow-ups with you.
• All cyclists are expected to follow the Ontario Highway Traffic Act.   Bicycles are considered a vehicle as part of the Act.
• Helmets are required for all participants throughout each day of the tour.
• Drafting is extremely dangerous, and especially on a trail that will have other users present. This will not be accepted during this ride.
• Stopping; please make sure that you signal prior to stopping and move to the right of the trail, and remove your bike from the pathway to allow other people to pass. Also, make sure that no one is behind you before you come to a complete stop. When accessing areas off of the pathway along the itinerary, please make sure that your bicycle is visible for guides who are sweeping the route.
• Passing on the trail; signal with a bell or by calling out to cyclists and/or other trail users in front of you that you intend to pass on the left. Conversely when you are notified of someone’s intentions to pass, please move to the right to allow space.
• Stay to the right along the trail, this also applies to the sections that are along country roads as part of the trail. For your safety here is a link to the Hwy traffic act as it applies to cyclists (please read and understand). Staying to the right allows oncoming vehicles and cyclists alike the ability to pass safely.
• Both headphones should not be worn while riding at any time. If you need headphones to listen to Ride with GPS cues then we advise wearing one headphone only.If you like music, there are bike speakers available.
• Anyone thought to be endangering the safety of others along the route due to the consumption of alcohol will be ejected from the tour. The bicycle falls under the HWY traffic act and is treated the same way as a motorized vehicle in these circumstances.
• Obey posted signs! Cyclists like motor vehicles are required to come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights. Also be aware of railway crossings and potential hazards in wet conditions.
• Be considerate of others while on the trail, in campgrounds, and in the communities along the route! Be a welcomed guest.
• Ebikes – all the above rules apply. Please be especially considerate of other cyclists and give a warning as you pass – remember that you may take them by surprise.  All E-bike riders should be aware of their battery capacity and operate accordingly to avoid unnecessary use of the support vehicles. The GWTA cannot guarantee that adequate charging facilities will be available at facilities en-route.
• Be safe & enjoy the ride!!!

Cancellation Policy

If you must cancel your registration, the cancellation fee will be determined according to the policy outlined below.

The fees retained reflect the costs to the Trust of administering the Tour registration and are not intended to be punitive in any way. Exceptions to the Refund policy may be made, on rare occasions, for extenuating circumstances only. There is no refund for arriving late or leaving the trip early. Please note that fees associated with the Race Roster event platform are non-refundable. These are listed on your invoice as processing fees.

What happens if the Waterfront Regeneration Trust (WRT) cancels the event? In the event the WRT cancels the event, a full refund less an administration fee will be offered to participants. Please note that fees associated with the Race Roster event platform are non-refundable.

Transfer of Registration:   After May 1, 2024, the Trust will not issue refunds. However, you may sell or transfer or give your registration to someone else. The Trust will not facilitate these transactions. To transfer a registration, the Trust must have an email ( tourdirector [at] wrtrust.com ) from both parties (seller & purchaser) stating that the transfer has taken place and is accepted by both parties.

Registration Carry Overs:   All registrations apply to the Tour year only – 2024. No year-to-year carryovers will be granted.

Download the waiver to read and sign for the Adventure.

Do you have questions about the tour before you register? Read our FAQ on the About page.

Protecting. Connecting. Celebrating. The Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River.

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Waterfront Regeneration Trust

4195 Dundas St. West - Suite 327 Toronto, Ontario M8X 1Y4 (416) 943-8080 [email protected]

Partners Resource Centre

• Download our Logos
• Signage Guidelines & Templates
• Boiler Plate Statements
• GWTA Participant Surveys
• State of the Trail
• 2017 Trail-Wide Partners Meeting
• 2014 Trail-Wide Partners Meeting
• Georgian Bay Cycling Route Expansion
• Lake Superior Expansion
• Pauline Browes Fellowship
• Partner Update