The best road cycling routes around Saskatoon

Road cycling routes in Saskatoon primarily feature a relatively flat prairie landscape, often following the South Saskatchewan River. While generally level, you'll encounter gentle elevation changes, making routes accessible for various skill levels. The extensive Meewasin Valley Trail system provides paved multi-use paths along the riverbanks, offering smooth riding through urban areas, parks, and natural riverine environments.

Saskatoon offers a selection of road cycling routes, with komoot currently featuring 4 distinct tours. These routes are all rated as moderate difficulty, providing engaging rides for cyclists with some experience.

Among the popular choices, the Bowerman House – PCR Banting Park loop from Saskatoon is a comprehensive 45.2 km ride. For a slightly shorter option, the View of downtown Saskatoon – Circle South Beach loop from Brevoort Park covers 32.1 km, exploring both urban and natural settings. Another local favorite is the View of downtown Saskatoon – Circle South Beach loop from University of Saskatchewan, a 20.5 km route offering scenic views.

Cyclists can enjoy diverse scenery, including views of the South Saskatchewan River, various bridges, and the open prairie countryside. The Meewasin Valley Trail, a central feature, offers scenic views of the water, city skyline, and surrounding natural beauty. You'll also experience the vastness of Saskatchewan's prairies with their 'living skies' beyond the city limits.

While all listed routes are moderate, the generally flat topography and paved paths of the Meewasin Valley Trail make many sections suitable for families. For a shorter, more urban-focused ride, the Stew Uzelman Pedway – Kiwanis Memorial Park loop from Nutana is 15.1 km and leads through residential areas and green spaces, which can be a good option for families looking for a less strenuous outing.

Along and near the routes, you can explore several interesting landmarks and natural features. Consider visiting the Wanuskewin Medicine Wheel or the broader Wanuskewin Heritage Park for cultural insights. The Circle South Beach offers a pleasant riverside stop, and the Forestry Farm Park & Zoo provides another point of interest. You might also pass through Victoria Park, a local facility.

Yes, Saskatoon is recognized as a bike-friendly city. It offers amenities such as bike racks on buses, free bike rentals at downtown hotels, and campus bike tune-up stations. The city also has various cycling clubs, fostering a strong cycling community.

The warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn, offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Saskatoon. During this time, you can fully enjoy the 'living skies' and the vibrant prairie landscape. While some groups engage in winter fat biking, road cycling is best experienced when the paths are clear of snow and ice.

Yes, for cyclists seeking longer rides, you can head south out of the city towards areas like Furdale or Cranberry Flats. These routes offer scenic rides along the South Saskatchewan River and through the countryside on quieter roads, allowing you to experience more of the vast prairie landscape.

The Meewasin Valley Trail is a defining feature of Saskatoon's outdoor activities, stretching over 105 kilometers along the South Saskatchewan River. For more detailed information about this extensive trail network, including its various sections and amenities, you can visit the official Tourism Saskatchewan page: Meewasin Valley.

Cyclists often praise Saskatoon's extensive Meewasin Valley Trail system for its well-maintained, paved multi-use paths and the scenic views it offers of the South Saskatchewan River and the city skyline. The generally flat terrain is also appreciated, making it accessible for a wide range of abilities, and the opportunity to experience the vast prairie landscape is a unique draw.