The best traffic-free bike rides around Ottawa
4.6
(719)
6,862
riders
56
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Ottawa benefit from the city's extensive network of multi-use pathways and diverse natural features. The region is characterized by flat, paved trails along the historic Rideau Canal and Ottawa River, contrasting with the rolling hills and forested routes found in nearby Gatineau Park. The National Capital Greenbelt also provides additional pathways, integrating urban landscapes with natural areas. This varied terrain offers a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Ottawa
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Étienne Brûlé Lookout – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Westboro, a 36.8 miles (59.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 47 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers significant elevation gain and scenic lookouts within Gatineau Park.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Pink Lake Lookout – Gatineau Park Promenade loop from Westboro, a moderate 26.1 miles (42.0 km) path. This route provides views of Pink Lake and utilizes the dedicated cycling promenades within Gatineau Park.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Britannia Cafe – Lac Deschênes Beach loop from Iris, a 37.3 miles (60.0 km) trail leading through riverside areas and urban green spaces, often completed in about 3 hours 31 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Ottawa is defined by extensive pathway networks, scenic riverside trails, and the rolling hills of Gatineau Park. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy, flat paths to more challenging routes with elevation.
- The routes in Ottawa are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 700 reviews. More than 7000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ottawa's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(34)
642
riders
59.4km
03:48
720m
720m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
242
riders
42.4km
02:37
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
34
riders
53.1km
03:05
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
53
riders
14.3km
00:51
50m
50m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
38
riders
32.8km
02:06
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Ottawa
Tips from the Community
Spanning the Ottawa River between Ottawa and Gatineau, the Champlain Bridge provides wide views across one of Canada's most important waterways. From here you can watch boats navigating the river, spot waterbirds along the shoreline, and take in views of wooded islands and the surrounding riverbanks. Opened in 1928 and rebuilt in the early 1970s, the bridge remains a key link between Ontario and Quebec while offering a unique perspective over the Ottawa River's broad channel.
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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 trail follows along the banks of its namesake river for nearly 12 kilometers between Rideau Falls and the Rideau Canal at Hogs Back Falls. Along its path you'll pass through many parks and multiple bridges that can take you across the river. As such you can take this as an out and back route or take one of the bridges to the opposite side and create a nice loop.
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This paved parking area is located after the lookout area on Promenade Champlain and has washrooms and access to a couple of trails. To the south near the lookout, you can follow the stairs to the Sentir Champlain loop trail, and to the north, there is access to Trail #9 and Trail #1 (Ridge Road).
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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 no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Ottawa?
Ottawa offers a wide selection of traffic-free touring cycling routes. Our guide features over 60 distinct routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's an option for every cyclist looking to explore the region without vehicle interference.
What makes Ottawa a great destination for no-traffic touring cycling?
Ottawa is renowned for its extensive network of multi-use pathways, including the Capital Pathway Network with over 200 km of trails. The city's commitment to cycling infrastructure, combined with its diverse natural features like the Ottawa River, Rideau Canal, and Gatineau Park, provides numerous opportunities for scenic and car-free rides. Many parkways are periodically reserved for active use, further enhancing the traffic-free experience.
Are there easy and family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling routes in Ottawa?
Yes, Ottawa has many easy and family-friendly options. The Rideau Canal Pathways, for instance, offer flat, paved trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Our guide includes over 45 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed family outing. A good example is the Lake Viewpoint loop from Carleton, which is an easy, shorter ride.
What are some scenic viewpoints along Ottawa's no-traffic cycling routes?
Many routes offer breathtaking views. The Ottawa River Pathway provides vistas of the Ottawa River and Gatineau Hills, while the Rideau Canal Pathways showcase historic buildings and Dow's Lake. In Gatineau Park, you can reach stunning spots like Pink Lake Lookout and Champlain Lookout. Consider routes like the Pink Lake Lookout – Gatineau Park Promenade loop from Westboro for access to these scenic spots.
Can I find routes that explore Ottawa's Greenbelt without traffic?
Absolutely. The National Capital Greenbelt offers a natural playground with additional pathways away from urban traffic. These routes allow cyclists to explore forests and farms. An example is the View of the Greenbelt Trail – Opening loop from Bridlewood, which provides a moderate ride through this expansive area.
Are there any long-distance, traffic-free touring cycling routes extending beyond Ottawa's immediate city limits?
Yes, for those seeking longer adventures, the Ottawa Valley extends beyond the city with an extensive network of trails. The Ottawa Valley Recreation Trail/Algonquin Trail, a 296 km former railway line, offers panoramic views of the Ottawa River and charming villages, providing a significant car-free touring experience.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along these routes?
Ottawa's routes pass by a variety of natural attractions. You can encounter beautiful lakes such as Black Lake and Lake Mulvihill. There are also impressive natural monuments like Hog's Back Falls and Deschênes Rapids. The Mer Bleue Bog offers a unique ecological experience.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Ottawa?
The komoot community highly rates Ottawa's no-traffic touring cycling routes, with an average score of 4.59 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained Capital Pathway Network, the stunning views along the Ottawa River and Rideau Canal, and the peaceful, car-free experience offered by routes in Gatineau Park and the Greenbelt.
Are there any loop routes for no-traffic touring cycling in Ottawa?
Yes, many of Ottawa's no-traffic cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Étienne Brûlé Lookout – Pink Lake Lookout loop from Westboro, or the moderate Britannia Cafe – Lac Deschênes Beach loop from Iris, which offers a pleasant ride along the water.
When is the best time of year for no-traffic bike touring in Ottawa?
The best time for no-traffic bike touring in Ottawa is generally from late spring to early fall (May to October). During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the National Capital Commission periodically reserves some parkways in Ottawa and Gatineau Park for active use, providing car-free opportunities. Spring also brings the Canadian Tulip Festival, which can be enjoyed from various pathways.
Are there opportunities to combine cycling with cultural attractions in Ottawa?
Absolutely. Ottawa's pathways are designed to integrate urban and natural landscapes. You can cycle past or view iconic cultural landmarks such as Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Royal Canadian Mint. The Rideau Canal Pathways also offer views of historic buildings and the Château Laurier, making it easy to combine your ride with sightseeing.
Most popular routes around Ottawa
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