Campaign - Major's Hill Park, view of Parliament, cycling

Ottawa: A top cycling destination

With more than 800 kilometres (497 miles) of beautiful and diverse recreational pathways, Canada’s capital is a cycling enthusiast’s dream destination. Biking within the city and in the nearby countryside is a fun way to access everything from attractions, parks and historic sites, to restaurants, breweries and wineries. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, weekend warrior or casual rider, you’ll love exploring the Ottawa region by bike!

This year marks the 50th edition of the Rideau Lakes Cycling Tour happening June 10 and 11. Up to 1,500 cyclists from all over North America will bike from either Ottawa or Perth to Kingston and back. 

Cycling businesses, events and sites

Cycling along Ottawa River Pathway
Capital Pathway
One of the best ways to explore Ottawa–Gatineau is by bike, through an extensive multi-use pathway network.
cycling, biking
CN Cycle for CHEO
Cycle along fully supported, traffic-free urban routes (15K, 35K and 70K) and enjoy Ottawa’s scenic beauty and top landmarks while raising money for…
Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals
Escape Bicycle Tours & Rentals
Join scheduled daily bike tours led by Ottawa locals or rent a bike, e-bike, scooter or boat and create your own adventure.
Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park
Swim, hike, bike, camp, cross-country ski, snowshoe or visit heritage sites amid towering trees and rocky outcrops in this expansive park just 15 minutes from Ottawa.
RentABike
RentABike
Over 200 bicycles and accessories to choose from for all ages, sizes and routes.
cycling, biking
Rideau Lakes Cycle Tour
The Ottawa Bicycle Club’s most demanding event attracts up to 1,500 riders in a two-day trip to Kingston and back. The annual two-day event is one of…

Ottawa cycling highlights

Cycling
Cycling in the Ottawa region
Planning to bike in Canada’s capital? Learn about gear rentals, fun tours, great events and picturesque routes within the city and nearby countryside.
Rideau Canal - cycling
Best walking and cycling tours in Ottawa
Did you know that you can easily walk or bike between world-class attractions, culinary hotspots and green outdoor spaces in Canada’s capital? And…
Rideau Canal, Cycling. Biking
Sightseeing Cycling Route
Distance: Approximately 7.5 km (4.6 miles) Time: Less than an hour at a leisurely pace; more if you stop at museums and sites along the way Ottawa is…
Cyclists with Canadian Museum of History in the background, Cycling
Ottawa River Family-Friendly Bike Trail
Canada’s Capital is a cycling enthusiast’s dream destination with more than 800 kilometres (497 miles) of beautiful recreational pathways that link…
Rideau Canal, Cycling, Biking
Family cycling along the Rideau Canal in Ottawa
Looking for a fun and family-friendly bike ride in Canada’s capital? Use our handy guide to cycling along the Rideau Canal in downtown Ottawa.
Cycling pathways Ottawa
Cycling in rural Ottawa
With over 800 kilometres (497 miles) of pathways, Canada’s capital region is a cyclist’s dream—especially the vast countryside surrounding the city.
Camp Fortune Mountain bike trail
Mountain biking in Ottawa
As a cycling destination , Canada’s capital region boasts over 800 kilometres (497 miles) of beautiful recreational pathways, as well as a range of…

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