Choose-your-own adventure in Toronto’s backyard, with views of the Niagara Escarpment (including her infamous climbs), horse farms, former railways, and historic villages. Nestled in the heart of Ontario, Caledon is a picturesque region that offers an unparalleled blend of scenic beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a prime destination for both road cycling and mountain biking enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or a novice eager to explore the trails, Caledon’s diverse terrain and well-maintained pathways provide an exceptional setting for biking adventures.
Road Cycling: Pedal Through Scenic Landscapes
Caledon’s road cycling routes are renowned for their stunning landscapes and relatively low traffic, making them ideal for both leisurely rides and intense training sessions. The area’s rolling hills, lush farmlands, and expansive forests create a breathtaking backdrop that is both invigorating and inspiring.
For those seeking a more challenging ride, the hills and valleys of Caledon’s North-South roads offer a thrilling experience and incredible views. Find a variety of road routes on Visit Caledon’s Ride with GPS profile or plan your own route using the full online map of cycling networks at caledon.ca/cycling
Rail Trail: Past, Present and Future
Looking for a route where you’ll share the path with the four-legged instead of four-wheeled? The Caledon Trailway is a 35km, multi-use path of crushed limestone surface that runs from Terra Cotta to Palgrave, and beyond Tottenham. This trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail and offers a surface perfect for hybrid and gravel bikes. Cyclists can enjoy views of the Credit River, quaint villages, and an array of wildlife. The trail’s gentle inclines and well-marked paths make it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
Between 1870 and 1880, there were four railways that served Caledon: the Hamilton and North Western Railway (now the Caledon Trailway), the Credit Valley Railway (now slated for redevelopment as a rail trail from Orangeville to Mississauga), the east-west branch line of the Credit Valley Railway (now the Elora-Cataract Trailway) and the Toronto Grey and Bruce Railway (abandoned in 1933 and reverted back to private land ownership). Many of Caledon’s charming present-day hamlets and villages were settled in conjunction with the arrival of railways and their accompanying rail stations.
Mountain Biking: Conquer the Trails
Caledon’s extensive network of mountain biking trails is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. The region boasts a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, from beginner-friendly loops to technical singletracks that challenge even the most experienced riders.
The Albion Hills Conservation Area is a standout destination for mountain bikers. With over 50km of trails, the area features a mix of terrain that includes fast descents, tight turns, and challenging climbs. The trails are well-marked and maintained, making them accessible for riders of all abilities. The scenic views of the Humber River and the surrounding forest add to the thrill of the ride, and amenities like washrooms, showers, seasonal bike wash stations and even camping take this park to the next level.
For those looking for more to discover, Palgrave Forest and Wildlife Area is another of Caledon’s mountain biking destinations. Whether you’re mastering the art of the drop or navigating a series of switchbacks, the property’s trails are sure to deliver an exhilarating experience. It’s worth noting that Palgrave Forest is not staffed and does not have washroom or garbage facilities, so please plan accordingly.
Fuel up locally at nearby restaurants, cafes and breweries with new mapping tool
New to the Caledon Trailway this year are ten wayfinding signs; find these blue signs at village intersections along the trailway to learn the distance to the next village, trail etiquette, village history. Scan each sign’s QR code to access a curated map of nearby businesses and landmarks. No signs? No problem. Visit www.visitcaledon.ca/map and use the “find me” function for location-specific attractions anywhere in Caledon.
Last minute repair need? They’ve got you covered
Did you know that Caledon has seven bicycle repair stands across the town? Plan ahead and locate the closest one to your ride route here. These stations are designed for the everyday user in case of a minor bicycle maintenance emergency. Stands are equipped with bike repair tools you need to get back on the ride, including:
- Pump (for both schrader and presta valves)
- Allen Keys
- Screw Driver
- Spoke Tool
- Tire Lever
- Cone Wrench
Looking for more technical help? The fine folks at Caledon Hills Cycling and Lynx and Hare Cycles are your ultimate stops for professional help and recommendations.
A Cyclist’s Paradise
Caledon, Ontario truly stands out as a haven for road, gravel and mountain bikers alike. Its combination of scenic beauty, fresh air, exceptional places to eat and drink makes it a must-visit destination for cycling enthusiasts. Within an hour of Toronto, the hills of Caledon offer adventure and discovery at every turn. So, grab your bike and water bottle and experience your new favourite cycling day trip destination.
Visit Caledon
Follow Visit Caledon online at visitcaledon.ca, on Instagram and on Facebook – connect with them, to talk trails, places to go and things to do year-round.
Whether you’re sneaking away for an early-morning ride, or a weekend away with friends – the folks in the Town of Caledon can’t wait to meet you. See you out here!
Additional Information:
- Town of Caledon – Cycling & Trails – Information about cycling routes and trails, safety, clubs and orgs, and bike repair stations
- Visit Caledon – Tourism Information and Experiences
- Caledon Trailway – Information about the 35km rail trail
- Caledon – Ride with GPS Route Library – Find routes and GPS files for turn by turn navigation
- Camp & Ride – 2 Day Trip – suggested cycling itinerary
- Palgrave Forest and Wildlife Area – Mountain biking trails
- Albion Hills Conservation Area – Mountain biking trails and camping
- Peel Region & Greenbelt Areas – Great Places to Cycle – Ontario By Bike – Find cycling routes and trails and bicycle friendly places to visit, eat, and sleep.
—–
Sponsored Content Partner: Visit Caledon
Photo Credits: All photos courtesy of Visit Caledon / Town of Caledon
The post Exploring Caledon, Ontario: A Haven for Road Cycling and Mountain Biking Enthusiasts appeared first on Ontario By Bike.
