Summer cycling adventure awaits in BruceGreySimcoe!

For those who prefer a relaxing and scenic cycle, BruceGreySimcoe has literally hundreds of kilometers of trails. Collingwood alone boasts over 60 kilometres of well-maintained recreational paths perfect for cycling, with more added yearly. Enjoy the views across Georgian Bay to the Blue Mountains while you ride the town’s series of interconnected waterfront trails that wind through wetlands, parks an arboretum and other local sites. The Georgian Bluffs Trail features varied scenery through bush, swamp and farmland with sweeping views of Georgian Bay and rural Grey County. This easy 16 km trail runs from Owen Sound to Parkhead and is a favourite of naturalists and birders.

The popular “rail trails” can be found in most BruceGreySimcoe communities. These former railway lines have been converted to wide, tree-lined gravel paths creating traffic-free and family-friendly routes to cycle. Coasting along the Georgian Trail, which runs from Collingwood to Meaford, is like following a smooth, flat ribbon. For the entire ride, it’s easy to relax and soak in the surroundings – cows grazing in an expansive field or trilliums nestled on the forest floor. 

This trail’s best feature? It travels mostly along the south shore of sparkling Georgian Bay - perfect for rest stops to soak in the scenery, catch your breath or take a swim during the summer. Extend your stay and stay overnight. Collingwood, Craigleith, Thornbury and Meaford are full of fun things to see and do with camping, resorts, chalets, cottages, motels, inns and bed and breakfasts all close by.

Cycle the route of the former North Simcoe Railway, built in 1878 to serve the lumber industry on Georgian Bay. The North Simcoe Rail Trailpasses through the Minesing Swamp and the Mayer’s Marsh and is not only scenic but is a birder’s paradise. Take a breather and explore historic Fort Willow, located along the trail. Or trek along the 28 km Lake Country Oro-Medonte Rail Trail where the last CN train travelled in the fall of 1996 and connects Barrie and Orillia. Pretty farmland and views of beautiful Lake Simcoe are highlights of the trail. 

The Saugeen Rail Trail connects Southampton, Saugeen Township and Port Elgin along an abandoned CN rail line. Cycle into the parking lot of local farm market, HiBerry Farm, right from the trail and pick up fresh seasonal produce from spring to fall. One of the best routes is to bike between Port Elgin and Southampton on the trail and loop back on the town’s 6 km two-lane paved trail. This runs right along the Lake Huron shoreline and through cottage country.

Running from Owen Sound to Dundalk, the Grey County CP Rail Trail climbs in elevation and arcs widely east of Owen Sound, then runs parallel beside Highway 6. Vistas of open farmland and Georgian Bay characterize the 77-kilometre route. Restaurants, food and services are easily accessible at various points along the route.

These and other cycling corridors throughout BruceGreySimcoe include gravel, stonedust and hard-packed surfaces travelling through both urban and rural landscapes – a great alternative whether you prefer to ride solo or with friends and family in a safe, stress-free, bicycle-friendly environment.