Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
GREAT CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN TORONTO
Planning to explore Toronto on two wheels? From waterfront views to urban greenways, these bike-friendly routes offer the ultimate way to see the city. Whether you're a casual cruiser or a serious cyclo-tourist, there's a path for you. Toronto has invested heavily in bike infrastructure, making it one of Canada's most rideable cities. In this guide, we’ll break down the best bike touring circuits and day-trip routes, share safety and planning tips, and suggest must-see stops along the way. So grab your helmet, fill your water bottle, and get ready to pedal through one of North America’s most vibrant urban cycling scenes.
Toronto’s top cycling areas
Explore by neighborhood and terrain
Toronto is a bike lover’s playground, blending urban energy with serene landscapes. Whether you're gliding by the lake or cutting through lush ravines, the diversity of cycling environments is unbeatable. Many of these routes are well-maintained, safe, and easily accessible via public transport, making them ideal for locals and tourists alike.
Start with the Martin Goodman Trail, a 56-kilometre stretch that hugs Lake Ontario’s shore. This path offers a perfect mix of skyline views, waterfront breezes, and coffee stop opportunities. It passes through key spots like Sunnyside Park, Ontario Place, and Cherry Beach, and is mostly flat—perfect for relaxed touring.
Next, head north to the Don Valley Trails. Tucked into a surprisingly quiet corridor just minutes from downtown, this system includes the Don Valley Parkway Trail and the Lower Don Trail. They snake through forests, over bridges, and alongside creeks—ideal if you want to forget you're in a major city.
Martin Goodman Trail – 56 km along the waterfront
Don Valley Trails – wooded, shaded, and central
High Park Loops – hilly, scenic, and family-friendly
Toronto Islands – short, flat, and great for photos
Beltline Trail – runs through midtown with vintage rail vibes
Each area has its own flavor. The Islands are great for sunsets and slower rides, while the Beltline gives off that peaceful “hidden-in-the-city” feeling. The best strategy? Plan your rides around what kind of vibe or scenery you’re craving that day.
Multi-day bike touring options
Pack your panniers and hit the road
If you're planning a multi-day bike vacation with Toronto as your home base, you're in luck. The city is well-connected to broader regional cycling networks that let you escape the city hustle and explore Ontario's countryside—without having to hop in a car.
One of the most popular circuits is the Waterfront Trail, which runs for over 3,600 km from Niagara-on-the-Lake to the Quebec border, with many segments passing through Toronto. A great 2–3 day ride is from Toronto to Prince Edward County via Oshawa, Cobourg, and Brighton—mostly paved, with plenty of lodging and wineries along the way.
The Greenbelt Route is another highlight. This 475-km signed route cuts through protected farmlands, forests, and rolling hills. You can hop on it in the east end (near Rouge Park) and pedal through picturesque towns like Uxbridge and Lindsay. It’s not only scenic but also designed with touring cyclists in mind—think bike-friendly accommodations and clearly marked paths.
Waterfront Trail to Prince Edward County – wine, beaches, and lakeside towns
Greenbelt Route – rural escape just north of the city
Toronto to Niagara Falls – about 130 km of smooth pedaling with epic payoffs
Lake to Lake Trail – from Lake Ontario to Lake Simcoe
Etobicoke Creek Trail extension – good for a quick weekend loop
If you're new to bike touring, start with an overnight trip—Toronto to Hamilton, for instance, is a manageable 75-kilometre route. Many cyclists also use the GO Train to return, making it easy to turn any ride into a one-way adventure.
Make sure to bring a toolkit, spare tubes, and a waterproof map app like Komoot or Ride with GPS. Ontario weather can shift fast, so pack layers and always ride with lights and a bell—it’s not just smart, it’s the law.
Safety tips and planning advice
Stay safe and ride smart in Toronto
Cycling in Toronto is mostly smooth sailing, but some prep can go a long way. For starters, familiarize yourself with Toronto’s bike map (available on the City of Toronto website) to scope out the most protected and scenic lanes.
Helmet laws vary by age—adults technically don’t have to wear one, but you'd be smart to do it anyway. The city has invested in separated lanes on key routes like Bloor Street, Danforth Avenue, and University Avenue. These are great for less experienced riders who want some buffer from car traffic.
Toronto drivers are getting better about sharing the road, but you'll still encounter the odd aggressive honk. Signal early, stay predictable, and make full stops at signs—it earns respect and keeps you safe.
Use daytime running lights—even in sunny weather
Carry a power bank—your phone is your map, camera, and lifeline
Download the BikeSpace app for real-time bike parking info
Hydrate and snack often—cycling burns more than you think
Leave a route plan with someone before long rides
Planning ahead also means knowing where to take breaks. Toronto has no shortage of cozy cafes, parks with water fountains, and washroom stops. Trinity Bellwoods, Riverdale Park, and Tommy Thompson Park are all popular with local cyclists and worth weaving into your route.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of group rides or local cycling meetups. Groups like Cycle Toronto and Toronto Bicycle Meetup often host themed rides that double as city tours—great for making friends while exploring safely.
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