The best road cycling routes around Ottawa
4.8
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5,252
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Road cycling around Ottawa features an extensive network of pathways, waterways, and diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by its multi-use pathways, including the Capital Pathway Network and routes along the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal. Cyclists encounter varied terrain, from flat sections along riverbanks to rolling hills within areas like Gatineau Park and the Capital Greenbelt. This infrastructure provides numerous options for exploring the city's natural and urban environments.
Best road cycling routes around Ottawa
- The most popular road cycling route is Chief William Commanda Bridge – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Pimisi, a 43.6 miles (70.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours 15 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects significant landmarks and offers varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Pink Lake Lookout – Chief William Commanda Bridge loop from Tunney's Pasture, a moderate 50.0 miles (80.4 km) path. This route features scenic views and rolling hills, providing a challenging ride.
- Local road cyclists also love the Rideau Canal – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Lees, a 25.0 miles (40.2 km) trail leading through a UNESCO World Heritage Site and varied landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 47 minutes.
- Road cycling around Ottawa is defined by its extensive Capital Pathway Network, scenic routes along the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal, and the rolling hills of Gatineau Park. This network offers options for different ability levels, from leisurely rides to more challenging terrains.
- The routes in Ottawa are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 5000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Ottawa's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.9
(8)
1,107
riders
70.2km
03:16
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(5)
447
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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4.8
(12)
402
riders
51.7km
02:20
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.7
(11)
319
riders
44.8km
01:55
190m
190m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.5
(4)
222
riders
40.1km
01:35
120m
120m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around Ottawa
Tips from the Community
Leave the pavement and enter the dirt trails of Forest Valley, the densely wooded track of land sandwiched between suburban neighbourhoods. The area is open to dog walking, but there are signs that state if dog owners don't pick up after their dog, there's a heavy fine.
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Rockcliffe Airport is a small airfield nestled right along the river and is one of Canada’s oldest active airports. Originally established as a military air station in the early 20th century, it played an important role in Ottawa’s aviation history and sits next to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. From the trail, you can look across the open airfield and may even spot small aircraft taking off, landing, or moving along the runway.
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Watt's Creek Pathway follows Watt's Creek and is open to hiking, running, and biking. It's fully paved and easy to access with a stroller or wheelchair, as there is only a 0-5% grade, except for a roughly 10% grade near Carling Avenue. This trail passes over Watt's Creek a few times, through forests and into open grassy areas.
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This small bridge crosses Watt's Creek and gives hikers and bikers a good look down onto the dark, slow-moving waters. This creek flows for about 10 kilometres through urban Kanata.
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Wesley Clover Parks spans an impressive 200 hectares and is home to an equestrian centre, sport fields, a campground, and an education centre. The park has both public restrooms and water fountains.
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Attention as it is always flooded in places on this trail.
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This multi-use trail connects to the wide network of trails throughout the city and offers hikers, joggers, and cyclists access to many park and green areas throughout the summer. Snowshoers and XC skiers can take to the same trail during winter when conditions are right.
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Britannia Park is a spacious waterfront area where the Ottawa River broadens into a sweeping expanse. The park includes a sandy beach, open green space, and paved pathways that meander along the riverbank. With its open, breezy setting, the park offers breathtaking views of the river and plenty of space for a variety of recreational activities along the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Ottawa?
Ottawa offers a wide variety of road cycling routes, with over 140 tours available on komoot. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging excursions.
What do other cyclists think about road cycling in Ottawa?
The road cycling experience in Ottawa is highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 70 reviews. More than 5,000 road cyclists have explored the region using komoot, praising its diverse terrain and extensive network of pathways.
Are there easy road cycling routes for beginners in Ottawa?
Yes, Ottawa is very beginner-friendly, with over 50 easy road cycling routes. A great option for a relaxed ride is the Lac Deschênes Beach – Ottawa Regional Road 18 loop from Tunney's Pasture, which covers about 25 miles (40 km) with minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Ottawa?
Ottawa's road cycling routes feature varied terrain. You'll find flat, paved sections along the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal, as well as rolling hills and more challenging climbs within areas like Gatineau Park and the Capital Greenbelt. This diversity ensures options for all preferences.
What scenic viewpoints can I find along road cycling routes in Ottawa?
Many routes offer stunning views. You can cycle to the Champlain Lookout for panoramic vistas, or visit the Pink Lake Lookout, which is often included in popular loops like the Chief William Commanda Bridge – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Pimisi.
Are there any waterfalls accessible by road bike in Ottawa?
Yes, you can cycle to several beautiful waterfalls. The Hog's Back Falls are a striking natural feature within the city, and you can also find a scenic Waterfall Near McKenzie King Estate, often part of routes exploring Gatineau Park.
What historical or cultural landmarks can I see while cycling in Ottawa?
Ottawa's routes often pass by significant landmarks. You can view Parliament Hill, cycle along the historic Rideau Canal Eastern Pathway, and see the impressive Rideau Canal Locks. The The Famous Five Monument is another notable stop.
Which routes offer views of the Ottawa River or Rideau Canal?
Many routes provide stunning views of these waterways. The Ottawa River Pathway offers breathtaking vistas of the river and the Quebec side, while the Rideau Canal pathways, such as the Rideau Canal – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Lees, hug the shores of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Are there road cycling routes that are loop trails in Ottawa?
Yes, the majority of road cycling routes in Ottawa are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Pink Lake Lookout – Chief William Commanda Bridge loop from Tunney's Pasture and the Toilet – Maple Island Bridge loop from Jeanne-d'Arc.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ottawa?
The best time for road cycling in Ottawa is typically from spring through fall. The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant. Autumn, in particular, offers spectacular fall foliage in areas like Gatineau Park. Winter cycling is possible but requires specialized gear due to snow and ice.
Can I access road cycling routes in Ottawa using public transport?
Many of Ottawa's extensive multi-use pathways and road cycling routes are accessible via public transport. The city's commitment to active transportation means that key cycling network access points are often near bus stops or O-Train stations, especially within the downtown core and along major pathways.
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