BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN SUDBURY

Sudbury’s top cycling trails

Sudbury might surprise you with how bikeable it really is. With its rocky landscapes, lakes on every corner, and sprawling green spaces, this Northern Ontario city offers a variety of routes for every level of cyclist. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a full-on bike tour, these top trails are must-rides.

Bell Park to Science North Loop

This well-loved urban loop runs for about 12 kilometers around Lake Ramsey, giving riders beautiful lake views, wide paved paths, and access to Bell Park’s gardens and beaches. It’s a chill start to any bike itinerary, especially if you’re just warming up or riding with kids.

• Length: ~12 KM

• Terrain: Paved, flat with mild inclines

• Highlights: Lake Ramsey, Science North, Bell Park Beach

• Good for: Beginners, families, photo stops

Trans Canada Trail – Sudbury Segment

The Trans Canada Trail cuts right through Sudbury and offers one of the most scenic and varied bike touring experiences in the region. The Sudbury section links various green spaces, running around 28 kilometers in total, with sections that dip into forests, cross rivers, and meander through quiet neighborhoods.

• Length: ~28 KM

• Terrain: Mixed (gravel, packed dirt, some paved)

• Highlights: Laurentian Conservation Area, Junction Creek

• Good for: Intermediate to experienced riders

Laurentian University Trails

Right next to Lake Nepahwin, the trails near Laurentian University are a dream for off-roaders. With about 15 kilometers of dirt tracks, forest trails, and tight turns, this is where you go to test your mountain bike’s spirit. Watch for local wildlife—you might even spot a fox or two.

• Length: ~15 KM

• Terrain: Dirt, rocky paths, forested singletrack

• Highlights: Lake views, hilly terrain, forest immersion

• Good for: Experienced riders, MTB lovers

Best stops and bike-friendly cafés

You can’t bike all day without decent pit stops. Luckily, Sudbury has a growing café culture and some stellar rest points that double as mini sightseeing breaks. Whether you’re craving caffeine, carbs, or calm lake views, here are a few rider-approved spots to check out.

Kuppajo Espresso Bar (Downtown)

After cruising the Bell Park loop or riding in from the Trans Canada Trail, swing into downtown Sudbury for a cup at Kuppajo. It’s cyclist-friendly with racks nearby, quick service, and strong espresso. Bonus: their sandwiches slap.

• Top picks: Cold brew, breakfast bagels

• Outdoor seating: Yes

• Bike racks: Within 20 meters

• Atmosphere: Hip and welcoming

Verdicchio Ristorante Enoteca

For those touring through the northwest segment of the Trans Canada Trail, Verdicchio offers elevated eats with a rustic patio perfect for cyclists. It’s a chill place to refuel with homemade pasta and a local pint before hitting the next leg.

• Top picks: Pasta specials, local craft beer

• Outdoor seating: Yes

• Cyclist crowd: Regulars welcome

• Mid-ride luxury vibes

Lake Laurentian Conservation Area Rest Zone

No café here, but it’s worth the mention. This nature reserve has shaded benches, water refill stations, and peaceful lookout points. If you’re doing an all-day ride, this is a great place to catch your breath, stretch your legs, and snack in peace.

• Facilities: Bathrooms, refill stations

• Shaded areas: Plenty

• Photo ops: Trails, lakes, wildlife

• Great for: Mid-ride breaks

Planning and gear tips for Sudbury rides

Cycling in Sudbury comes with a few quirks—think rocky terrain, variable weather, and hidden gem routes that aren’t always on Google Maps. Here’s how to gear up, plan smart, and ride like a local on your Sudbury cycling vacation.

What to pack

The basics include a helmet, water bottles, and weather-ready layers. But don’t skip the extras: bring a trail map (or use Komoot/AllTrails), bug spray, and a headlamp if you’re venturing onto forest paths. A mini first-aid kit is also clutch—Sudbury rides can get remote fast.

• Must-haves: Multi-tool, spare tube, tire pump

• Nice-to-haves: Snacks, camera, local SIM

• Trail apps: Komoot, Trailforks

• Ride-friendly backpack: Lightweight & water-resistant

Weather and timing

Late spring through early fall is your window for top-tier riding. July and August are ideal, but also peak tourist season. If you want solitude, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Autumn brings magical foliage, but trails can get slick—pack accordingly.

• Best months: June–September

• Avoid: Early spring (muddy conditions)

• Pack: Windbreaker, bug spray, sunscreen

• Watch for: Trail closures after storms

Safety and etiquette

Stick to posted trails, especially in conservation areas. Wildlife is real here, so don’t blast music and always yield to hikers. If you’re road-riding, Sudbury isn’t Toronto—traffic is lighter, but bike lanes are limited, so ride predictably and signal clearly.

• Ride right, pass left

• Give space to other users

• Use a bell or call out when passing

• Respect nature—no littering

Sudbury has that rare mix of untamed beauty and rideable terrain that makes for a fantastic two-wheeled vacation. With a bit of prep, it’s a cycling destination you’ll want to return to again and again.