Fastest 40K and longest ride ever. Plus ice cream 🍦
Ready to pedal your way into an easy breezy escapade? Buckle up for a delightful ride along the Ottawa River Pathway, a journey that caters to all. This route, hailed as the "Ride of the Year" in 2021, unfolds a 30 km scenic bike path roundtrip from downtown Ottawa. But don't worry if that sounds like a marathon - you can easily tailor the distance to your liking, making it as short and sweet as you wish.
Starting from downtown, the route takes you all the way to Britannia Park. If you're up for it, continue peddling until you reach Andrew Haydon Park. This ride is part of the Trans Canada Trail.
Throughout your journey, you'll be treated to picturesque views of the Ottawa River and some of Ottawa’s attractions, including the Ottawa Locks of the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, the Supreme Court of Canada, and the Canadian War Museum. Some sections of the pathway are lined with grassy parkland where you can take a breather, snap a few photos, and soak in the beauty around you.
🌭 Feeling peckish? The route is sprinkled with delightful snack stops:
🚗 Planning to drive? Parking is available near Remic Rapids Park and Britannia Park. And don't worry about facilities – there are washrooms at the museums along the route and basic washroom facilities at Remic Rapids and Britannia.
So what are you waiting for? Dust off your bike, grab your helmet, and get ready to explore nature in the most fun and refreshing way! This is not a race, it's a leisurely ride – a chance to breathe in the crisp, fresh air, enjoy the beautiful views, and let your worries float away with the river.
Hop on that saddle and see why Ottawa is a dream destination for cycling enthusiasts of all skill levels. Experience the joy of cycling in nature on this welcoming and approachable route. Whether you're looking for a quick spin or a long ride, the Ottawa River Pathway is your passport to an unforgettable journey on two wheels. Happy cycling!
When? From 8am to 4pm, from May 11 to October 14. Parts of the Kichi Zībī Mīkan parkway are reserved for recreational use
That's right, you can safely ride on the road! Check out our map 🗺️. For more details take a look at the NCC website.
As of May 2024, there are still some detours due to construction near Westboro Beach. Since 2022, there have also been closures behind Parliament Hill, affecting part of the loop. Be sure to check the NCC Closures map for the latest updates.