With the increase of cycling during the pandemic as one of the only ways to exercise, there are significantly more cyclists, runners, and walkers out and about.

 

Here is a refresher on cycling ettiquette:

 

Don’t use the wrong side of the path or walk in the middle of the path.

This is an unspoken rule but a lot of people do not stick to the right side of the path.  If you don’t stick to an edge, another cyclist might clip you as they pass you because they didn’t leave you enough room.

 

Don’t stop in the middle of the path.

This is especially important if you are in a group. Move as close to the edge or off the path if it is safe to do so. Not only is this important for social distancing, it is also saves people from having to go around you. The other week when I was out running, I saw a group of young cyclists stop and lay their bikes right on the path and then run into the trees to take a picture. This is incredibly unsafe and disrespectful.

 

Be aware of those who are around you.

It is important to be conscious of who is in front of you and who is behind you. When you need to pass someone, should check to make sure no one is behind you trying to pass and be aware of who is coming towards you as there might be someone coming the other direction.

 

Alert someone before you pass them.

Using you bell or calling out as you are passing someone will prevent them being startled by you.

 

Don’t pass everyone like you’re trying to win the Tour de France.

Slow your roll. I understand the love to go fast but it is also alarming to be passed by someone zooming by you.

 

Travel single file.

Share the space.

 

Be safe. Share the space. Happy (distant) cycling!

Photo by Tiffany Nutt on Unsplash

Canada has beautiful cycling trails from coast-to-coast.

Alberta’s Icefield Parkway from Banff to Jasper

This 230-km stretch between Banff and Jasper takes you through the Rocky Mountains passing glaciers, turquoise lakes, wild life and wild flowers. With spectacular views but a steep incline, it is not for the faint of heart.

Prince Edward Island’s Confederation Trail

Best explored by bicycle or foot, the total length of the Confederation Trail is 449-km. From December 1 – March 31, the PEI Snowmobile Association has exclusive rights to the trail and it is not open to pedestrians or cyclists! The trail is equipped for all skill levels as it travels through PEI’s picturesque scenery.

Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail

Cabot Trail is a 298-km paved look on Cape Breton Island in northern Nova Scotia. Featuring dramatic ocean views and highland scenery, the Cabot Trail has been described as one of the world’s top bicycle rides. Being quite hilly, this trail will need some serious training before being conquered but it is a great challenge and the stunning views are absolutely worth the burning thighs.

Newfoundland’s Viking Trail

This 600-km route takes you along the rocky, barren coast through a series of sparsely populated but picturesque fishing villages. You will see amazing mountains and cliffs, beautiful shorelines with crashing waters and spectacular views, and flatlands that stretch for miles. The rugged coast beauty rivals many other Canadian trails and the variety of landscapes will leave you in awe.

Quebec’s Route Verte

Route Verte is a 5,300-km cycling network that links all regions of Quebec making it the longest of its kind in North America. This route will take you from calm stretches along the St. Lawrence River to the mountain views in the Laurentides and is the perfect was to celebrate Quebec’s magnificent landscape.

Ontario’s Waterfront Trail

The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail is a route that connects 140 communities and First Nations along the Canadian shores of the Great Lakes. Stretching over 3000-km, it is one of the longest cycling route’s in North America. The trail takes you along some of Ontario’s most spectacular landscapes including, but not limited to, rocky shore lines, sandy beaches, farmlands, thick forests, rushing waterfalls, and tranquil forests.

British Columbia’s Kettle Valley Rail Trail

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail takes you on an adventure through BC’s wild spaces and deep history. The old, decommissioned rail tracks create a 650-km trail from Hope to Castlegar. The section through Myra Canyon, south of Kelowna, required the construction of 18 trestle bridges and two tunnels. The Othello Tunnels in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park is a popular tourist destination.

Have you cycled any of these routes? Let us know!