Burlington, Ontario, is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and cycling lovers. With its picturesque landscapes, waterfront views, and well-maintained trails, it’s the perfect destination for road biking adventures. Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride along the lake or a more challenging path through natural terrains, Burlington offers a variety of options. Here are some of the best bicycle trails in Burlington, Ontario, to explore:
1. Waterfront Trail - Spencer Smith Park
The Waterfront Trail at Spencer Smith Park is one of the most popular trails in Burlington. Stretching 23.5 km and estimated to take about 4 hours and 16 minutes to complete, this trail connects Burlington and Hamilton and is mostly paved, making it accessible for all levels of cyclists. Along the way, riders will pass several historic sites, such as the Brant House, Lift Bridge, and Hamilton's Beaches community. This trail is lined with trees, providing shade during the warmer months, but it can get quite windy and snowy in the winter. For those looking for a long and scenic ride with plenty of sights, the Waterfront Trail is a fantastic choice.
2. Spencer Smith Promenade
The Spencer Smith Promenade is a fully paved and directionally-separated trail that spans 2.9 km and takes around 34 minutes to complete. It offers beautiful access points to Lake Ontario, with multiple piers extending over the water, providing stunning views of the lake and the surrounding region. This trail is particularly popular due to its proximity to downtown Burlington and the numerous festivals and activities held in the park year-round. It’s a great option for a leisurely ride, offering both scenic beauty and urban convenience.
3. Hamilton Waterfront Trail
Starting in Confederation Park, the Hamilton Waterfront Trail is a 4.8 km paved trail that takes about 52 minutes to complete. This trail provides a wide surface suitable for walkers, runners, and cyclists, with points of interest nearby like parks, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's an excellent choice for families or those looking for a relaxing ride with plenty of amenities and activities along the way.
4. Bronte Creek Trail
The Bronte Creek Trail in Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a moderately challenging trail that spans 17.1 km and is estimated to take around 3 hours and 49 minutes to complete. This trail offers a wonderful experience with a variety of landscapes, including creeks, ridges, and ravine lookouts. Cyclists may spot wildlife such as turkeys, eagles, foxes, and coyotes along the way. The trail’s diverse environment makes it ideal for those looking for an adventurous ride through nature.
5. Centennial Trail
The Centennial Trail is one of Burlington's longest converted rail trails, covering 15.9 km with an estimated time of 2 hours and 59 minutes. This trail is mostly flat with a few gentle uphills, making it accessible for riders of all skill levels. It’s a great way to explore Burlington’s Lakeshore area, passing through ravines, parks, and charming streets. With ample parking available near the trailhead, this is a convenient option for a day of cycling.
6. Van Wagner's Beach Trail
The Van Wagner's Beach Trail offers a scenic 8.0 km ride, estimated to take 1 hour and 26 minutes. This paved asphalt trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario, stretching from downtown Toronto to downtown Hamilton. The trail is quite wide, making it ideal for both cyclists and runners, and is a great spot for a relaxing bike ride along the shore.
7. Red Hill Valley Wetlands Trail
The Red Hill Valley Wetlands Trail is a beautiful loop trail that stretches 6.1 km and takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes to complete. It connects the Red Hill Valley Wetlands with Confederation Beach along Lake Ontario, offering cyclists an opportunity to enjoy natural landscapes close to the city. This trail is particularly popular among birdwatchers during warmer months, thanks to its rich wildlife and lush environment.
8. Paletta Park Loop
The Paletta Park Loop is a short but scenic 1.3 km trail that takes approximately 16 minutes to complete. Located in Paletta Lakefront Park, this trail offers stunning lakefront views and passes by historic buildings like the Paletta Mansion. It's a perfect spot for a quick, relaxing ride or a peaceful stroll along the water.
9. Francis Road Bikeway
The Francis Road Bikeway is another great cycling path in Burlington, spanning 2.9 km with an estimated time of 33 minutes. This trail is relatively easy and suitable for a relaxed ride through suburban areas, making it a good choice for families or casual cyclists looking for a shorter ride.
10. Hidden Valley Park to Pier 4 Park
The Hidden Valley Park to Pier 4 Park trail is a more challenging intercity ride that spans 19.0 km and takes around 4 hours and 1 minute to complete. Starting from Hidden Valley Park in Burlington, this route passes through the Royal Botanical Gardens Conservation Areas, offering cyclists beautiful natural scenery and a more adventurous ride.
Relax and Recover at Pepe Cannabis Store After Your Ride
After exploring the best bicycle trails in Burlington, Ontario, there's no better way to unwind and recover than a visit to Pepe Cannabis Store. Located at 892 Brant Street in Burlington, Pepe Cannabis Store offers a wide variety of cannabis products, perfect for relaxation and recovery after a long ride.
From high-quality flower, potent concentrates, and delicious edibles to refreshing beverages and soothing topicals, Pepe has everything you need to enhance your post-ride relaxation. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right product, whether it’s a CBD-infused topical to soothe sore muscles, a calming indica flower to help you unwind, or a cannabis beverage to refresh yourself.
Drop by Pepe Cannabis Store to explore a wide selection of cannabis products tailored for recovery and relaxation after a day of cycling. With your next adventure in Burlington just around the corner, make sure to gear up and treat yourself to the best cannabis experience at Pepe!
