The best traffic-free bike rides around Montréal

Montréal and its surrounding areas offer a growing network of routes suitable for no-traffic gravel biking. While this guide features a selection of 17 routes, the region boasts an extensive cycling infrastructure, including dedicated gravel paths and converted rail trails, providing numerous options for car-free riding.

Yes, Montréal offers several options for easy, family-friendly gravel biking. Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques and Parc-nature du Bois-de-Liesse provide varied terrain from paved to dirt paths, suitable for a relaxed ride. For a longer, gentle experience, the P'tit Train du Nord, accessible north of Montréal, is a well-known rail trail with a gentle grade, perfect for families.

Beyond the city's green spaces, popular car-free gravel routes include the P'tit Train du Nord in the Laurentians, which follows an old railway system through picturesque landscapes. Another excellent option is the Trans Terrebonne circuit, offering fun gravel double and single tracks in heavily wooded areas north of Montréal and Laval, making you forget you're near the city.

Yes, many gravel biking destinations around Montréal are accessible via public transport. For instance, the Trans Terrebonne circuit can be reached by train from downtown. Similarly, the P'tit Train du Nord in the Laurentians is accessible via the EXO train system, making it convenient to reach these car-free routes without a car.

Montréal's no-traffic gravel trails offer diverse scenery. You can expect urban green spaces like Mount Royal Park with panoramic city views, riverside paths along the St. Lawrence, and natural parks such as Parc-nature du Cap-Saint-Jacques and Parc-nature du Bois-de-Liesse with forests and varied terrain. Further afield, routes like the P'tit Train du Nord take you through quaint mountain towns and picturesque Laurentian landscapes.

Yes, loop options are available for gravel bikers. While specific named loops are often part of larger networks, many of Montréal's parcs-nature and regional trails allow for circular routes within their boundaries. The Trans Terrebonne circuit, for example, is designed as a loop, providing a comprehensive car-free experience through wooded areas.

The best time for gravel biking in Montréal is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and trails are typically dry and well-maintained. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage, making for incredibly scenic rides. Some trails may also be accessible in winter for fat biking, depending on snow conditions.

Absolutely! Many trails offer scenic viewpoints and landmarks. Mount Royal Park provides stunning panoramic views of the city. Along the Via Ardèche, you can find highlights such as the Pedestrian and cycle bridge over the Ardèche and the Plagnes tunnel. Natural monuments like the Cirque de Gens (Ardèche) and Ruoms Gorge also offer spectacular sights.

The komoot community highly rates gravel biking in the Montréal area, with an average score of 4.39 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of diverse terrain, from urban green spaces to extensive car-free networks like the P'tit Train du Nord. The blend of natural beauty and well-maintained paths, allowing for peaceful rides away from traffic, is frequently highlighted as a major draw.

While many routes are well-known, exploring the lesser-trafficked sections of the Parcs-nature, such as Parc-nature de la Pointe-aux-Prairies, can feel like discovering a hidden gem. These parks offer interpretation trails through forests and marshes, providing a serene and car-free gravel experience often overlooked by those seeking more distant adventures.

Yes, especially on longer routes or those passing through towns. The P'tit Train du Nord, for example, passes through several quaint mountain towns where you can find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. Within Montréal's larger parks, you might find snack bars or picnic areas. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details for available services.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the Balazuc Bridge – Via Ardèche loop from Chauzon offer a good balance of distance and elevation gain. Another option is the Sampzon – Via Ardèche loop from Sampzon, which provides a rewarding ride with moderate climbs and descents on car-free paths.