Last Updated: December 26, 2025
With over 600 kilometres of interconnected pathways, Ottawa ranks among North America’s most bike-friendly capitals.
Whether you’re a casual weekend rider, a dedicated commuter, or a mountain biking enthusiast seeking technical terrain, Ottawa’s cycling infrastructure delivers world-class experiences. The National Capital Commission (NCC) maintains an extensive network of paved pathways weaving through urban parks, along historic waterways, and into the wilderness of Gatineau Park. From the iconic Rideau Canal to challenging single-track trails, this guide covers everything you need to explore Ottawa on two wheels.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa offers 600+ km of cycling pathways including the scenic Rideau Canal and Ottawa River trails. Gatineau Park provides car-free parkways on weekends and mountain biking terrain. Bike rentals and the VeloGO bike share program make cycling accessible to everyone.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Total Pathway Length | 600+ km |
| 🚴 Main Networks | Capital Pathway, Rideau Canal, Ottawa River |
| ⛰️ Mountain Biking | Gatineau Park, South March Highlands, Larose Forest |
| 🚲 Bike Share | VeloGO (formerly Capital Bikeshare) |
| 🗓️ Best Season | May through October |
| 💰 Trail Access | Free (pathways), Gatineau Park pass required for parking |
The NCC Capital Pathway Network
Ottawa’s cycling infrastructure centres on the NCC’s Capital Pathway system, a 600-kilometre network of multi-use pathways connecting major attractions, parks, and neighbourhoods across the National Capital Region.
The pathways are paved, well-maintained, and separated from vehicle traffic, making them ideal for cyclists of all abilities. Key corridors include routes along the Rideau Canal, Ottawa River, Rideau River, and through scenic green spaces like the Dominion Arboretum and Mer Bleue Bog.
Rideau Canal Pathway
The Rideau Canal Eastern and Western Pathways run parallel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site from downtown Ottawa to Dow’s Lake and beyond. This flat, scenic route passes Parliament Hill, the National Arts Centre, Lansdowne Park, and Carleton University. The eastern pathway continues south to Hog’s Back Falls and eventually connects to the Rideau River trails.
Distance: 7.8 km one way (downtown to Hog’s Back) Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat Highlights: Historic locks, Dow’s Lake Pavilion, Lansdowne Park
Ottawa River Pathway
Stretching along the scenic Ottawa River shoreline, this pathway offers stunning views of the Gatineau Hills and Quebec. Starting near the Canadian War Museum, it runs west through Westboro Beach, Andrew Haydon Park, and eventually connects to the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway trails.
Distance: 31 km one way Difficulty: Easy to moderate Highlights: Remic Rapids, Westboro Beach, river views
Top Cycling Routes for Every Rider
Ottawa’s diverse terrain supports cycling adventures for every skill level. Here are the must-ride routes:
Experimental Farm Loop
The Central Experimental Farm offers a peaceful 5-kilometre loop through agricultural fields, ornamental gardens, and the Fletcher Wildlife Garden. The flat terrain and minimal traffic make this route perfect for beginners and families.
Best for: Families, casual riders, nature lovers
Aviation Parkway
This dedicated cycling corridor runs from the Rideau River north to the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. The pathway features gentle grades and passes through green spaces with excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Distance: 4 km one way Difficulty: Easy
Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway
Following the Ottawa River west from downtown, this route provides access to Westboro Beach, Mud Lake Conservation Area, and Andrew Haydon Park. Weekend mornings often see the parkway closed to vehicles, creating a car-free cycling paradise.
Gatineau Park: Weekend Paradise
Just 15 minutes from downtown Ottawa, Gatineau Park transforms into a cyclist’s haven. The NCC closes parkways to motor vehicles on weekend mornings from mid-May through mid-October, creating 50+ kilometres of car-free riding.
Car-Free Parkways Schedule
- Gatineau Parkway: Saturdays and Sundays, 6 AM to 11 AM (May to October)
- Champlain Parkway: Sundays, 6 AM to 11 AM
- Fortune Lake Parkway: Sundays, 6 AM to 11 AM
The parkway routes feature challenging climbs with elevation gains exceeding 300 metres, rewarding riders with spectacular lookout views at Champlain Lookout and Pink Lake.
Mountain Biking in the Ottawa Region
For off-road enthusiasts, the National Capital Region offers exceptional mountain biking terrain:
Gatineau Park Trails
Over 90 kilometres of designated mountain bike trails wind through Gatineau Park’s forests. Trails range from beginner-friendly routes near P8 and P9 parking lots to challenging single-track at Camp Fortune and Keogan Trail.
Trail pass: Required from mid-May to late October ($12/day or seasonal pass)
South March Highlands
Located in Kanata, this conservation forest features 50+ kilometres of community-maintained trails. The terrain includes technical rock features, flowing single-track, and scenic wetland crossings.
Access: Free, year-round
Larose Forest
This 10,000-hectare forest east of Ottawa offers 150 kilometres of trails ranging from beginner to expert. The sandy soil drains quickly after rain, making Larose a popular shoulder-season destination.
Family-Friendly Cycling Routes
Ottawa’s pathway network includes several routes specifically suited for families with children:
Best Family Routes:
- Experimental Farm Loop – Flat, traffic-free, with farm animals and gardens to explore
- Dow’s Lake to Mooney’s Bay – Scenic canal views with playgrounds and beaches along the way
- Rideau River Eastern Pathway – Gentle route through Vincent Massey Park with swimming spots
- Mer Bleue Bog Boardwalk – Short ride to a unique bog ecosystem (combine with pathway cycling)
Most family routes feature rest areas, washroom facilities, and water fountains during summer months.
Bike Rentals and Bike Share
Several options make cycling accessible for visitors and residents without bikes:
VeloGO Bike Share
Ottawa’s public bike share program offers 600+ bikes at 80+ stations across the city. The system includes both regular and electric bikes, with pricing starting at $1.25 per trip for members.
Stations: Downtown, Centretown, Glebe, Westboro, Sandy Hill, and more App: VeloGO mobile app for station locations and bike availability
Rental Shops
| Shop | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Rent-a-Bike Ottawa | Plaza Bridge (Rideau Canal) | Recreational bikes, tandems |
| Cyco’s | Bank Street, Westboro | Road, mountain, e-bikes |
| Full Cycle | Slater Street | Urban and commuter bikes |
| Fresh Air Experience | Bank Street | High-end road and gravel |
Rates typically range from $15-40 per hour or $40-100 per day depending on bike type.
Safety Rules and Trail Etiquette
Cycling on Ottawa’s pathways requires following NCC regulations and common courtesy:
- Stay right, pass left – Alert others when passing with a bell or verbal warning
- Speed limit: 20 km/h – Enforced on all NCC pathways
- Yield to pedestrians – Especially near crosswalks and busy areas
- Helmets recommended – Required by law for riders under 18
- Lights required – Front white light, rear red light after dark
- Dogs on leash – Keep pets controlled on multi-use pathways
Best Seasons for Cycling
Ottawa’s cycling season spans spring through fall, with each period offering unique experiences:
- Spring (May-June): Tulip Festival blooms along canal, fewer crowds, occasional rain
- Summer (July-August): Peak season, all facilities open, sunset rides until 9 PM
- Fall (September-October): Spectacular foliage, cooler temperatures, less congestion
- Winter: Fat biking available in Gatineau Park and select trails
The pathway network generally opens by mid-April and remains accessible through late October, weather permitting.
Where to Find Trail Maps
The NCC provides comprehensive cycling maps in multiple formats:
- Online: ncc-ccn.gc.ca/cycling (interactive map with route planning)
- Mobile: Download NCC mobile app for GPS-enabled trail navigation
- Print: Available at NCC Visitor Centres at Rideau Canal locks and Gatineau Park
- Bike shops: Most local shops stock free NCC pathway maps
Commuter Cycling Tips
Ottawa’s cycling infrastructure makes bike commuting practical year-round for many residents:
- Plan your route using quieter residential streets and pathway connections
- Secure parking available at most government buildings and transit stations
- Shower facilities at many downtown office buildings and gyms
- O-Train integration – Bikes allowed on LRT during off-peak hours
- Winter commuting – Cleared pathways and bike lanes on major routes
The city’s Complete Streets policy continues expanding protected bike lanes, making cycling increasingly safe and convenient.
FAQ
Q: Are Ottawa cycling pathways free to use?
All NCC Capital Pathways are free and open to the public. Gatineau Park requires a parking pass if driving to trailheads, but cycling access is free. Mountain biking trails in Gatineau Park require a seasonal trail pass from mid-May to late October.
Q: Can I cycle on the Rideau Canal in winter? During winter when the canal becomes the world’s largest skating rink, the adjacent pathways remain partially accessible but may have snow or ice. The canal itself is for skating only. Fat biking opportunities exist in Gatineau Park and select urban trails.
Q: Where can I rent a bike near the Rideau Canal? Rent-a-Bike Ottawa operates a seasonal location at Plaza Bridge near the Rideau Canal locks downtown. They offer hourly and daily rentals for recreational bikes, tandems, and children’s bikes from May through October.
Q: Are helmets required for cycling in Ottawa? Helmets are legally required for cyclists under 18 in Ontario. While not mandatory for adults, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended on all routes. Many rental shops include helmets with bike rentals.
Q: What is the best route for a beginner cyclist? The Rideau Canal Eastern Pathway from downtown to Dow’s Lake offers a flat, scenic, and well-maintained route perfect for beginners. The 4 km one-way trip passes major attractions and includes rest areas with water and washrooms.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s cycling infrastructure stands among the finest in North America, offering something for every type of rider. From leisurely canal-side cruises to challenging mountain bike trails, the National Capital Region invites exploration on two wheels. The extensive NCC pathway network, weekend car-free parkways in Gatineau Park, and accessible bike share program make cycling both convenient and enjoyable. Whether you’re commuting to work, exercising, or discovering the city’s natural beauty, Ottawa’s bike-friendly design ensures memorable rides through every season.
Source: National Capital Commission - Cycling
