Take the back road: Gravel Routes in Kawarthas Lakes

Courtesy of Ontario By Bike

KAWARTHA LAKES: Kawartha Lakes’ answer to the car-free rides above is the Victoria Rail Trail. This former rail bed intersects with the Great Trail as it heads north. Departing from either Lindsay or Ken Reid Conservation Area will bring you over a beautiful marsh boardwalk and through 22km of natural highlights before you arrive in Fenelon Falls. Also, a Trent-Severn Trail Town, this funky small town community offers a beach, Lock 34 of the Trent-Severn Waterway, and numerous attractions to the visitor. Cyclists looking for more of a challenge can continue their trip north to Kinmount. If you’re looking for a few more ups and downs, try the Four Villages Tour. This trail offers four access points in the northern half of Kawartha Lakes, all of which lead down lush and little-traffic back roads. For a longer ride, you can join this ride with the Carden Ramble. This section will take you past the Carden Alvar Provincial Park and Important Bird and Biodiversity Area. As the name suggests, at Carden Alvar you’ll be treated to a globally rare ecosystem home to a wide variety of uncommon bird and plant species. With so many back roads throughout Kawarthas Northumberland, these suggestions are only a starting point. Just be sure to bring appropriate supplies and a bike that can handle gravel, and you’ll be set. Note that while most are roads and trails usually hard packed, be prepared to alter your route if you hit a recently graded stretch that makes cycling difficult.