The best road cycling routes around Woolwich

This is the north end of RIM Park and the end of the Walter Bean Grand River Trail section, but there’s no parking available here. If you’re planning to walk this route, you’ll need to park at the main RIM Park parking area that is located on Park Road. It’s a common point of confusion, so it’s worth planning ahead.

Running alongside the trail, the Grand River is the main backdrop for this entire section. For much of the route, you’re walking right beside the water, with open views in some areas and more filtered glimpses through trees in others. The river moves steadily here, and you’ll often see birds along the banks or on the water. It’s part of a much larger river system that flows south across the region toward Lake Erie, adding a quiet sense of scale to an otherwise easy, local walk.

This section of the Walter Bean Grand River Trail follows a wide, easy path alongside the Grand River, making it more of a relaxed walk or run than a traditional hike. The trail is mostly flat, with a mix of paved and gravel surfaces, and stays close to the water for much of the route. You’ll move between open parkland and shaded sections through trees, with occasional views of the river. It’s part of a much longer trail system that runs through the region, but this stretch is especially accessible and easy to follow.

Often called the “jewel of the city,” Waterloo Park blends natural trails, open lawns and multi-use pathways with an impressive mix of facilities for all ages and interests. The park features three paved trail systems (including the Iron Horse and Trans-Canada trails) for walkers, runners and cyclists. The park also features sports fields, a skate park, and a summer splash pad. Families and nature lovers can explore Silver Lake’s boardwalk, Victorian-style gardens, picnic shelters, and the city’s oldest log schoolhouse tucked into the green space.Whether you’re here for a short neighbourhood walk, a scenic bike ride, an energetic skate session or a relaxed picnic by the lake, Waterloo Park delivers something for everyone in a lush, urban-forest setting.

Set just off the path in Waterloo Park, this large glacial boulder carries a bronze plaque honouring Prof. C.F. Thiele for his long-standing contribution to band music in the City of Waterloo. It’s an understated landmark—easy to walk past unless you pause—yet it reflects the park’s deeper connection to local history and community arts.

Tucked within the heart of Waterloo Park, Silver Lake invites you to slow down and linger by the water’s edge. With its wide boardwalk circling the shore, display fountains, and gently sloping lawn that meets the lake, it’s a tranquil setting for a walk, bike ride or a lakeside break.

A small rural community with a traditional feel and a couple of local shops worth stopping for. It’s a quiet place to pause along the G2G Rail Trail, grab a snack, or take a break before continuing your ride or walk through the countryside. The Corner Store LCBO & Food Shop and Noah's Pizza are good options for a meal.

This well loved local cafe and bakery is a welcome stop on any walk or run. It's known for it's wood fired baked goods, great coffee, and self serve honor system of payment. You might stumble on it on your first visit, but every time after that you will purposely seek it out!