Summer is not over yet! It's even the perfect time to hit the local trails and go downhill for miles on asphalt or trails. Are you ready for a getaway on two wheels with the kids? We offer seven bike circuits (road and mountain) that will please the whole family.
The Jacques-Cartier Cycle Track
From Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier to Rivière-à-Pierre, the Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf offers a country ride and magnificent, rather wild landscapes on a 68 km course in stone dust. Families are numerous on this course which is done in sections (we suggest you start with a short hike).
For the more athletic, take the train to Rivière-à-Pierre and return by bike! You will enjoy a slight downward slope for most of the route. Want to continue your journey? The Vélopiste is connected to the Cheminots corridor and allows you to pedal all the way to Quebec City.
photo: courtesy of Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf
The Railway Workers' Corridor
Very busy on weekends, the Cheminots corridor runs for 22 kilometres through the boroughs of La Cité-Limoilou, Charlesbourg and des Rivières, the village of Wendake and the borough of Haute-Saint-Charles.
A tip: the Wendake section is ideal for beginners; there are also several parks nearby for picnics.
The Coastal Corridor
Running along the St. Lawrence River, the Littoral Corridor stretches 48 kilometres between the town of Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures and Montmorency Falls. Its scenery is breathtaking all along. Note that several sections also welcome walkers, rollerbladers and people with reduced mobility.
Where to take a break? There is no shortage of choice. Take the opportunity to visit the Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, to cool off on the Samuel-de Champlain promenade or to relax at the Baie de Beauport.
Samuel-de Champlain Promenade Photo: National Capital Commission of Quebec
The Anses route
Take the Québec-Lévis ferry! On the south shore, the Anses trail is one of the most beautiful bike paths in the province! Classified as easy, this multifunctional trail offers you a 15 km corridor for walking, cycling or rollerblading. All along the route, the magnificent panorama is a feast for the eyes: bridges, fortifications of Québec, Château Frontenac, Île d'Orléans and Montmorency Falls.
Need a break? On hot days, you can cool off at the fountains on Quai Paquet.
For the more athletic, it is also possible to take the Harlaka route to the east and reach the Bellechasse cycle route.
Mountain bike
Mont-Sainte-Anne
In recent years, we have seen more and more pump tracks appear. These courses with small jumps and bumps allow young people to learn the sensations of mountain biking. Even toddlers love them: they can even try them on a bike without pedals, in order to practice their balance. There is one at the foot of Mont-Sainte-Anne.
A family destination par excellence, Mont-Sainte-Anne offers several downhill and cross-country trails, some of which are designed for families. A bicycle rental service is also available.
Our suggestion: Goldilocks is perfect for families.
Photo: Olivier Croteau
The Mill Trails
Popular with thrill seekers, Les Sentiers du Moulin in Lac-Beauport also welcomes the athletes of tomorrow. Even the youngest! Beginner and intermediate level trails are offered, as well as a stone dust trail for families.
Photo: Christyna Mérette
Empire 47
In Lac-Delage, near Stoneham, Empire 47 has 28 kilometres of mountain bike trails. We like the centre's approach, which focuses on youth development and cooperation. A youth program and bike rentals for young and old are also offered.
A word of advice: go gradually. It is better to start with a very easy trail or on flat ground so as not to discourage novices on two wheels.
Psst! Did you know? Bike racks have been installed on the articulated buses of the Métrobus 800, 801, 802 and 807 routes of the Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC). This service is free and available at all stops. Visit the VéloBus section of the RTC website.
Some accessories to bring on a walk:
The fashion accessory of the hour, the belt bag is also very practical! We love this children's version from Herschel that allows your son to carry the essentials.
Don't forget to drink enough! Here's a really cool and practical 3 Sprouts water bottle that you can take with you wherever you go.
On a beautiful sunny day, we wear our sunglasses. Have you thought about protecting your little ones' eyes? We love these Koolsun Flex sunglasses that have a removable and adjustable back strap that keeps them from falling off your little one's face. These glasses also fit perfectly under a bike helmet.
For little ones who are riding in a cart, remember to bring their blanket! They will be able to nap during the ride. Are you cycling around the city? We love the Quebec City bamboo blanket from Loulou Lollipop .
Have a nice bike ride!
*Cover photo: Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf cycle track
