Conquer the Colours: 5 Iconic Fall Cycling Routes in Simcoe County
As the vibrant hues of autumn ignite Simcoe County’s landscapes, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the season’s splendour than on two wheels. For outdoor explorers seeking fall colours, cycling isn’t just a ride; it’s an exhilarating adventure through scenic backroads, past glittering lakes, and beneath canopies ablaze with colour.
Just 90 minutes north of Toronto, get ready to push your limits and discover hidden gems in Simcoe County, all while forging unforgettable memories on some of Central Ontario’s most breathtaking fall cycling routes. Simcoe County is Ontario’s cycling mecca, whether you are a road rider, mountain biker or gravel grinder, this region should top your list of ‘must ride’ destinations. The following are 5 unforgettable routes you need to ride this fall!
The Creemore Loop
On-Road Loop | 59km | Moderate/Advanced
Head out to South Georgian Bay, considered one of Ontario’s most diverse regions and awe-inspiring viewpoints in the fall. The southern shores of Georgian Bay give rise to the highest point of the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Start your ride in Collingwood and head south for The Creemore Loop route. This on-road trek will get your heart pumping, but is worth the challenge for some of the most scenic road cycling climbs in the province including views the beautiful Mad River. Be sure to take a break in Creemore, approximately half way through your ride. This town, known for it’s mouth watering restaurants and coffee shops, has art galleries, shopping and more!
On your way back to Collingwood, be sure your legs are ready for the Fairgrounds Road climb, a difficult but short climb to a fantastic view of Georgian Bay. Reward yourself for a job well done with a pint at Northwinds Brewery and end the day in Historic Downtown Collingwood.
Discover more cycling in South Georgian Bay
Take a ride through Collingwood, Clearview, Springwater and Wasaga Beach. Visit a vineyard, orchard or tour one of many local breweries. Ride along the longest freshwater beach in the world, located in Wasaga Beach. Home to one of the most extensive multi-use trail networks and some of the most scenic road cycling climbs in the province, South Georgian Bay offers a challenge for riders of all abilities and styles.
Hills of Oro-Medonte
On-Road Loop | 100km | Advanced
North Lake Simcoe is one of Ontario’s most picturesque regions, filled with beautiful lakes, rolling hills, clean waters, and fascinating waterways. But fall is when the rolling hills really shine of with landscapes of dappled gold and red.
Experience the Hills of Oro-Medonte Loop that takes you through backroad cycling along winding paths and canopied roadways. Riders can test themselves against some of the region’s largest and longest climbs, including the Eady Stairs! This route is designed for recreational and avid cyclists looking to test their abilities, with challenging hills and long descents.
For a rest, stop along the 10th Line and reward yourself with a refreshing patio drink at Quayle’s Brewery. Complete your route with a dinner and over-night stay at Horseshoe Valley Resort or Carriage Ridge Resort. Looking for something unique? Sleep under the stars at Glen Oro Farm‘s luxury camping eco-retreat, right along this route!
Looking for a more relaxed version of this ride? Check out the Canopy Cruising route that covers 35km of easy to moderate riding to enjoy the fall colours.
Discover more cycling in North Lake Simcoe
Encompassing five districts, Orillia, Oro-Medonte, Rama First Nation, Ramara and Severn, North Lake Simcoe is a year round tourism destination paradise. Reclaim your sense of adventure, capture wonderful family memories or relax and rejuvenate. Whether you enjoy a short getaway package, a family vacation, weekend retreat, romantic getaway or casual day trip, you are guaranteed to have fun in North Lake Simcoe.
The Penetanguishene Loop
On-Road Loop | 39km | Advanced
World-famous for its clear water, rich forests, and abundance of multi-use trail networks, the Georgian Bay area is a unique coastline of sandy beaches and protected bays where societies have thrived for centuries. We call it the Heart of Georgian Bay.
The Penetanguishene Loop is a classic Simcoe County route that winds through Awenda Provincial Park and offers several opportunities to view Georgian Bay. Stop in at the Awenda Provincial Park store approximately half way through the ride for a quick rest or swim. Head back into the town of Midland where you can shop, dine, and rest after a day of adventure.
Please Note: Champlain Road can see high volume traffic during peak season weekends.
Discover more cycling in the Heart of Georgian Bay
Teaming with history, the Heart of Georgian Bay is home to Midland, Penetanguishene, Tay and Tiny Townships. You’ll find historical attractions, including a re-creation of the first European settlement in Ontario, and a British Naval & Military Base from the War of 1812. Enjoy an overnight stay in Midland with shopping and dining experiences. An E-bike charging station is available in Midland’s downtown core.
Experience Ontario’s Mountain Biking Mecca
Simcoe County boasts some of Ontario’s top mountain biking trails. The region features Ontario’s only lift-access downhill bike park with 14 adrenaline-fueled trails at Horseshoe Bike Park.
Hardwood Ski and Bike is a premier destination for competitive races along with recreational mountain biking routes. Featuring over 80km of beautiful, rolling trails through hardwood and pine forests. In addition to 34km of rolling double track trails, there is an additional 50km of challenging single track trails that intertwine with the ski trail network, creating endless possibilities of courses and obstacles.
Recreational single track trails can also be found throughout Simcoe County by the locally maintained Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club (SCMBC) trails. With well over 100 km of single track riding, you can explore for hours without double backing on the same trail twice. Pick up a club membership to gain access to all of the well-maintained SCMBC trails.
Take on the 160km Loop
Multi-track Loop | 160km | Single or Multi-Day Tour
The Simcoe County Loop Trail is a 160-kilometer loop that travels through nine municipalities, reaches three major bodies of water, including Georgian Bay, Lake Simcoe, and Lake Couchiching. The route is flat, scenic and primarily on off-road, multi-use rail-trails! Whether you want to power-through on a full day of adventure, or take in the sights for a multi-day trip there are so many great bicycle-friendly stops along the route to shop, dine, and stay.
Break your trip into three parts to take in the most along your route between Barrie, Orillia & Midland. Estimated travel distance between each of the three cities:
Barrie to Orillia ~35-40km
Orillia to Midland ~50-55km
Midland to Barrie ~70-75km
Start Planning your Cycling Trip
Simcoe County is home to some of the most beautiful single track mountain biking, roadways and rail trail networks in North America. Endless quiet roads accessible from your front door and epic, flowy single track, all of which just a short drive from the greater Toronto area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fall Cycling in Central Ontario
Peak fall colours typically occur from late September to mid-October, though this can vary slightly each year based on weather conditions. Checking local fall foliage trackers or the Ontario Parks Fall Colours Report closer to your travel date is recommended for the most accurate timing.
Many routes combine paved roads and packed gravel trails, making a hybrid bike a versatile choice. For more rugged trails in provincial parks or off-road adventures, a mountain bike is ideal. Road bikes are best for strictly paved routes.
Layering is crucial. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer, and a wind/water-resistant outer shell. Gloves, a hat or ear band, and good cycling glasses are also highly recommended to adapt to temperature changes and potential rain.
Be mindful of fallen leaves, which can conceal hazards or make surfaces slippery, especially when wet. Shorter daylight hours mean good lights (front and rear) are essential, even during the day, for visibility.
Yes, many routes pass through Simcoe County’s charming downtowns including Barrie, Collingwood, Creemore, Coldwater, Midland, Orillia, Stayner and Wasaga Beach with cafes, restaurants, and various accommodation options along the way. Check out Cycle Simcoe’s list of cycling-friendly accommodations, dining, and attractions to start planning your trip.
As the crisp autumn air invigorates your spirit and the vibrant forests of Simcoe County beckon, remember that the trails and roads are waiting to tell your next great story. Embrace the challenge, discover the unparalleled beauty, and feel the profound sense of accomplishment that only a fall cycling adventure can offer. So, gear up, hit the road, and let Central Ontario’s golden season inspire your inner explorer. Experience fall like never before when you Experience Simcoe County.
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