Take on the Trails in Fall Beauty
Experience fall colours on two wheels.
The crunch of autumn leaves under your tires, crisp temperatures that let you ride even longer and quieter trails are just a few reasons you’ll want to experience fall mountain biking in Bruce County. With trails ranging from technical single track to family-friendly beginner terrain, our mountain biking trails have it all. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend adventure, we’ve paired our best trails with some nearby local experiences for epic fall itineraries.
Ride the Lindsay Tract then Visit Lion’s Head
In your rush to get to The Grotto, you may have never even noticed this mountain biking mecca on Highway 6 just south of the Bruce Peninsula National Park entrance. Lindsay Tract is the largest of Bruce County’s managed forests at over 8000 acres and home to 15 kilometres of single track mountain bike trails. With relatively flat terrain and trails ranging from beginner to more difficult (think rock gardens and technical challenges on the aptly named Between A Rock and a Hard Place) the whole family can ride here, dividing up to conquer trails in their skill set. Don’t miss your chance to park your bike for a few minutes and climb the stairs up the lookout tower overlooking a vast wetland. The Lindsay Tract is home to both the black bear and the endangered Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake so keep your eyes peeled as you ride.
After your ride, head into Lion’s Head for more adventure. Grab a pint at the Lion’s Head Inn or check out the downtown shops and cafes. Head to the Lion’s Head beach for amazing aquamarine water views alongside towering escarpment cliffs. Take a selfie at the Lion’s Head picture frame and see if you can spot the famed lion’s head. Want to make a weekend of it? Consider a stay at The Fitz Hostel.
Explore the Mountain Bike Adventure Park then Tour Wiarton
To find this unique mountain bike park, you will need to literally take the road less travelled. Heading north on Highway 6 from Wiarton, take the Colpoy’s Bay turn off to Bruce Road 9, after passing the scenic village, you’ll head out of town and find the Mountain Bike Adventure Park on your right. This legendary mountain bike destination has evolved over the years to offer plenty of variety. Today there are 15 kilometres of single and double track trails, a 3.5 kilometre gravel loop suitable for parents pulling chariots and a pump track near the entrance. While there are some very challenging features at the park, options exist to bypass most of these.
After your ride, there’s lots to explore in downtown Wiarton and the surrounding area. Add a quick hike at Spirit Rock and McNeill’s Estate Conservation Area and explore the ruins of The Corran. Grab some homemade ice cream, hit the candy shop or order a delicious lunch in downtown Wiarton. There are some great shopping options along Wiarton’s main street too with everything from ladies fashion, do-it-yourself jewellery and a general store mercantile to choose from.
Cycle the Carrick Tract and explore Walkerton
Known as the most reliable trails in wet or dry weather, you can’t go wrong planning a day of riding at the Carrick Tract. These hard-packed trails have great drainage and can literally be ridden until the snow flies. Despite the intimidating name, Johnny’s Swamp of Doom is a great trail to begin with right from the parking lot. If you find the Swamp too tough, then steer clear of Sleepy Hollow, My First Time, Gilly’s Galactic Speedway and Tables and Turns and instead opt for double-track Ortman’s Way to Short but Sweet and Down and Out, both trails on the easier side.
Looking to explore more or grab a bite to eat post ride? Head to downtown Walkerton on the banks of the Saugeen River for some wood-fired pizza, or take the Fish Art walking tour with a coffee in hand. Then visit the nearby Greenock Swamp and its mysterious past in nearby Cargill.
Combine your Brant Tract Visit with a Stop in the Village of Paisley
With 20 kilometres of trail, Brant Tract ranges from tight and technical to open and flowing. As you ride through the towering pines, you can stop for spectacular valley vistas and wetland views but be sure to pack your bug spray for those few remaining fall bugs. These clay-based trails are hard packed and fun when dry but slick and risky after a heavy rain. Best to avoid riding here on super wet days and opt for the nearby Carrick Tract instead.
Post ride head to the nearby village of Paisley with its eclectic downtown and Saugeen River views. From wood-fired pizza to homemade ice cream and pub options too, refuelling after your ride is easy. Pack your fishing pole and drop a line in the Saugeen River or shop the main street for artisan gifts and outdoor supplies.
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Learn all about visiting Bruce, Grey, and Simcoe counties here.
