The best road cycling routes around Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie offers a diverse range of road cycling experiences, from flat, scenic routes along the St. Marys River and Lake Superior to challenging climbs through hilly terrain. You'll find options suitable for various skill levels, including urban multi-purpose trails and longer, more adventurous rides through river valleys and conservation areas.

Yes, Sault Ste. Marie has several easy routes. For a relaxed ride with scenic views, consider the Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station. This 14.4-mile (23.2 km) route is mostly flat and offers views of the St. Marys River and the iconic Soo Locks. Another easy option is the 18-mile East Portage – Riverside – Nicolet – Scenic route, which also follows the St. Marys River.

For those seeking a challenge, Sault Ste. Marie offers routes with significant elevation gain. The Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station is a moderate 48.1-mile (77.5 km) path that traverses varied terrain, including river valleys, with substantial climbing. Other challenging areas include Landslide Road leading up to the Hiawatha Highlands, Old Goulais Bay Road, and the Searchmont Highway (Highway 556) which features hilly sections towards Searchmont Ski Resort.

Absolutely. For longer rides, the Root River – Goulais River loop from Greyhound station covers 48.1 miles (77.5 km). You could also consider the Searchmont Highway (Highway 556) for a roughly 100km round trip, or a 130km round trip to Bruce Mines via Highway 17 and 638, known for its low traffic and rolling hills. St. Joseph Island also provides a full day of cycling on scenic roads.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer stunning views of Lake Superior and the St. Marys River, where you can spot freighters. You can cycle past the iconic Soo Locks, or explore areas like Gros Cap with its rocky beaches and bluffs. The Hiawatha Highlands Conservation Area, while primarily for trails, is a beautiful area with waterfalls and diverse wildlife that some routes might pass near.

Yes, many routes in Sault Ste. Marie are designed as loops. The Across the lock gates loop from Greyhound station and the Roadbike loop from Korah Collegiate and Vocational School are popular loop options. For a longer loop, the Root River loop from Greyhound station offers a 60.4 km ride through varied landscapes.

The best time for road cycling in Sault Ste. Marie is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Fall offers particularly beautiful scenery with changing leaf colors, especially in areas like Fort Creek Conservation Area.

For families, the John Rowswell Hub Trail is an excellent multi-purpose urban trail, approximately 25 km long, that guides cyclists through downtown Sault Ste. Marie and its green spaces. The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site also features newly paved roads and packed gravel trails suitable for all skill levels, making it a great option for a relaxed family ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene river views to challenging hilly sections, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities. The opportunity to see landmarks like the Soo Locks and enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the region's natural areas provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Areas like the Hiawatha Highlands Conservation Area are home to diverse wildlife, including over 70 bird species and 18 mammal species. While cycling through less urbanized routes, especially those near conservation areas or river valleys, you might encounter various local fauna.

While direct road cycling routes to waterfalls might be limited, the Hiawatha Highlands Conservation Area, a natural splendor featuring magnificent scenery and breathtaking waterfalls, is a significant natural attraction in the region. Some challenging road cycling routes, such as Landslide Road, lead up to the Hiawatha Highlands area, allowing for a combined cycling and nature experience.