What’s your favourite flavour of cycling? Do you prefer digging in off-road, pedaling hard for speed and distance, or just a light taste with a short meander? A bike ride can be what you want to make of it, which is part of the fun, isn’t it?
Haliburton Highlands’ varied terrain calls cyclists to explore on two wheels: roll over hills and down roads flanked on both sides with lush forests, along quiet roads that lead you past charming small towns. On your bike it’s just you, your determination, and the ground beneath you, propelling you forward.
Whether you are looking to pump out a short 20-kilometre loop on a scenic trail, a guided tour that will inspire, or a relaxing amble through a small community, Haliburton Highlands can be your cycling destination, close to home.
For Thrill Seekers – Mountain Biking
Best for: Thrill seekers and adrenaline junkies (or those just wanting to give it a try)
Distance:23 kilometres
Feel your heart race while you fly over hills and berms and careen around corners on one of Sir Sam’s Ski & Ride’s 23-kilometres of rugged trails. If you’re really into the adrenaline rush, take the ski lift to the top of the hill and challenge yourself on a downhill course that will keep your heart racing for hours afterwards. You can rent a bike on-site at Sir Sam’s or bring your own.
Tip: Reward yourself for your hard work with a cold brew at Boshkung Social in nearby Minden, and enjoy a light meal on their outdoor patio.
Inspiration Meets Perspiration – Guided Tours
Best for: Side road adventures at a slower pace
Distance: Between 16-and-25-kilometres
Pump up your creativity as you pump your legs with one of two tours offered by Yours Outdoors. The Pedal Your Arts: Gears for Guilford is a full day cycling tour that leads you through West Guilford. Wander between artist studios and meet the artists who capture the beauty of the Highlands. Break for lunch at the FeastON certified Rhubarb Restaurant and dine on a delicious lunch served on the shore of Mirror Lake. Tickets can be purchased from Yours Outdoors.
Tip: If one day isn’t enough to satisfy your craving for art and cycling, the Pedal Your Arts: Tour du Village will immerse you in a creative and active world for three solid days.
Grind that Gravel – Off-Roading
Best for: Experienced gravel bikers or newbies looking to see what all the fuss is about
Distance: 26 kilometres
Gravel biking is all the rage these days, and a fun way to see fantastic scenery while getting in a good workout at the same time. Challenge yourself on one of Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve’s trails– you can even try the route for the popular 8 Hours of Hurtin’ in Haliburton cycling event (this event is full for this year, but you can give the route a go anyway). For a lighter route, try the I.B. & O. Rail Trail from Haliburton to Ritchie Falls for a level 30-kilometre out and back – perfect for younger riders. For a complete list of Haliburton gravel routes you can also explore this local collection.
Tip: Riding on gravel is hard work and you will have earned a little pick-me-up at the end of the day. Pick up a bite to eat from Hook, Line & Sinker in Haliburton and cap it off with a cone made with Kawartha Dairy ice cream from Cool Licks just a few feet away.
Go the Distance – Longer Loops
Best for: Cycling fast and hard
Distance: 65 or 100-kilometre loops
Cycle Haliburton has mapped dozens of routes, but a good one that’s perfect for a half-day on the road is the Haliburton-Tory Hill-Wilberforce-Haliburton loop, which stretches 65 kilometres in total on mostly paved roads. If you want to challenge yourself even further, try the Haliburton Highlands South Loop that’s a slightly more challenging 109 kilometres.
Tip: Cap off your long ride with a feast of champions at Maple Avenue Tap & Grill in Haliburton. Their menu ranges from Asian cuisine to traditional comfort foods, but all will hit the spot after a long day on the road.
Cycle Back in Time – Historical Loops
Best for: Side road adventures at a slower pace
Distance: Between 16-and-25 kilometres
Cycle a 16-kilometre Prospector Trail Loop between Wilberforce and Harcourt and explore the side roads while traversing the terrain early prospectors and miners would have experienced in the early-to-mid-1900s. The Homesteader Trail Loop is 25-kilometres on side roads on a route that mirrors that of the first pioneers and early homesteaders to the area.
Tip: Plan to end your day in Harcourt at Algonquin Cookhouse, where they specialize in prime rib dinners complete with Yorkshire pudding, mashed potatoes, and all the fixings. It will make your ride worth the effort!