Cycling into Spring in Orillia & Lake Country
Breathe in the fresh air of a new season and step outside to enjoy the first signs of spring in Orillia & Lake Country. As the days get warmer and the landscapes turn greener, it’s a great time to dust off your bicycle and head out to explore the hundreds of kilometres of trails expanding across our region. Enjoy the fantastic local attractions, cafes, restaurants and so much more along, or just steps away, from these cycling routes! Find the fit that works for you and get out exploring!
Trail Routes
Nature meets industrial on many of the canopied rail trails through the region intersecting with old CN rail lines carved along these paths. Trek along the Lake Country Oro-Medonte Rail Trail, connecting Barrie to Orillia, immersed in nature on this flat and crushed gravel route observing forests, wetlands and the shores of Lake Simcoe. In Orillia, the Millennium Trail is a paved trail that winds alongside the waterfront of Lake Couchiching, connecting the Rama/Ramara trail to the Uhthoff Trail. Make a stop in Orillia’s historic downtown to enjoy culinary delights and unique shops. The Rama/Ramara Trail starts at the Historic Mnjikaning Fish Weirs and follows along pastoral country sides through Rama First Nation and Ramara Township. To explore Severn, set off along the Uhthoff Trail as part of the Trans Canada Trail linking up to Orillia’s Millennium Trail. The predominantly gravel trail follows an old CPR railway line through the rural landscape of Severn Township with many scenic views along the way. The Village of Coldwater provides a rest stop with cycle-friendly businesses for shopping and dining! Step up your adventure by downloading the free Uhthoff Trail Tour App, available in the Apple Store and Google Play Store. Set out on a self-guided tour along the Uhthoff Trail and get notifications on local history, flora and fauna and things to do along your route.
On-Road Routes
Take the road less travelled and bike along canopied rural roads, lakeside routes, and discover hidden cultural gems along the way. Set out into the countryside of the rolling hills of Oro-Medonte with routes of varying difficulty, from the winding roads of Bass Lake Sideroad to the hillier challenges through Moonstone. Set out for scenic farmstead views in Severn up to Severn Falls and fuel up in the scenic villages of Coldwater or Washago. For an advanced ride, set your sights to the Upper Big Chute Loop and make stops to see the historic locks of the Trent-Severn Waterway! As always, be mindful along road routes and check conditions before setting out!
To the Extreme
Get your heart pumping with mountain biking trails and courses. Hardwood Ski & Bike offers challenging courses and bike rentals. Try Horseshoe Resort’s downhill mountain biking or cross-country courses. Families, beginners, and pros are all welcome for a new biking adventure.
Get active this spring and make memories to last a lifetime while exploring Orillia & Lake Country. To learn more and start planning your route, visit OrilliaLakeCountry.ca/Cycling.