The best traffic-free bike rides around Uxbridge

Uxbridge, often called 'Canada's Trail Capital,' offers a good selection of traffic-free gravel bike trails. This guide features 9 such routes, ranging from easy to moderate, perfect for exploring the region's natural beauty on two wheels.

The trails in Uxbridge, particularly those on the Oak Ridges Moraine and within the Durham Regional Forest, offer varied terrain. You'll encounter rolling hills, woodlands, and wetlands, with surfaces typically consisting of crushed stone, gravel, and compacted soil. Most routes are classified as easy to moderate, making them accessible for a range of skill levels. For example, the Durham Regional Forest Trails – Forest Path loop is an easy ride, while the Durham Regional Forest Trails – Trans Canada Trail Singletrack loop offers a more moderate challenge.

Yes, many of Uxbridge's traffic-free gravel trails are suitable for families. The extensive network, especially within the Durham Regional Forest, provides well-maintained paths and plenty of shade. Routes like the Water Fountain in Elgin Park loop are easy and offer a pleasant experience for riders of varying ages and abilities.

Uxbridge's trails are rich in natural beauty. You can explore the diverse habitats of the Oak Ridges Moraine, including woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. A notable feature is the Wetlands Boardwalk on Uxbridge Rail Trail, offering unique views and opportunities for wildlife observation. The Durham Regional Forest Trails also provide an incredible maze of paths through lush forest.

Yes, several routes in Uxbridge are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Durham Regional Forest Trails – Forest Path loop and the Durham Regional Forest Trails loop from Durham Regional Forest, both offering convenient circular rides through scenic areas.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Uxbridge. The trails are well-maintained, and the surrounding natural landscapes are vibrant. Fall, in particular, provides stunning foliage views. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for snow and ice, which can alter trail conditions.

Yes, Uxbridge has several charming spots where you can refuel. The town itself offers cafes and eateries. For example, the Durham Regional Forest Trails – Nexus Coffee loop is designed to pass by a local coffee shop. You can also find places like Annina's Bakeshop & Café and Red Bulb Coffee Bar in the area, perfect for a post-ride treat.

Parking is generally available at key access points for the trail networks. For instance, the Durham Regional Forest has designated parking areas that serve as convenient starting points for many of the traffic-free routes. The Uxbridge to Lindsay Rail Trail also has accessible parking near its starting point in Uxbridge.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Uxbridge, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the beautiful natural scenery, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from vehicle traffic. The variety of terrain and the accessibility of the trails for different skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the Uxbridge to Lindsay Rail Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail, offers a significant traffic-free gravel experience. A large portion of its 64 km length, especially the 44 km closest to Uxbridge, is well-maintained crushed stone and gravel, providing a fast-rolling and scenic route through low-lying marshland and rural landscapes.