RWGPS Route Links
Background Ottawa/Gatineau offers over 250km of paved bike paths. This trip will take you to many of the beautiful sites in the National Capital Region. Once in Ottawa, the ride will be mostly on bike paths or dedicated roads. With the exception of the ride up to Champlain Lookout, the paths are relatively flat. Because the paths are shared with pedestrians, maximum speed is 20km/hr and you must have a bell.
The trip to Ottawa will be a relaxed ride with several stops along the way to chat and refuel. Participants will be responsible for carrying their own camping gear. Prior to the trip, we'll meet to review equipment details, starting location and answer questions.
Itinerary
- Day 1 We'll start our adventure up the K&P Trail. We'll follow it until we reach the Cataraqui Trail, which we'll turn on to and follow up to the Rideau Locks in Smiths Falls where we'll spend our first night camping.
- Day 2 We'll continue on the Cataraqui Trail to Nepean where we'll set up camp for the week.
- Days 3-7 Over the next several days we'll visit a number of places throughout Ottawa and Gatineau (Note: we will not go into most of the buildings as there are many sites to see along the routes). Daily trips will range from 60 to 90 km. We'll eat lunch at various restaurants along the paths and supper will be back at the campsite. We'll stop at a grocery store to pick up food beforehand. Friday night will be an exception when we'll eat out at a lovely marina on the Ottawa River offering classic Quebec poutine, drinks and, if you have some extra energy in your legs, dancing. During our day trips to Ottawa and Gatineau, we'll see the following sites:
- Parliament Buildings from the Gatineau side
- Ottawa Market
- Prime Minister's residence
- Governor General’s residence
- Gatineau Hills
- Pink Lake
- Champlain Lookout
- Aylmer Marina (supper, live band and dancing)
- Rideau Canal
- Hog's Back Falls
- Rideau Falls
- Number of beaches on both sides of the Ottawa River
- Day 8 We'll head back to Kingston, again stopping over for the night in Smiths Falls.
- Day 9 We'll continue south down the Cataraqui Trail to the K&P Trail, and then back to our starting point.
Accommodation In Smith Falls, you'll pay the campsite upon arrival. In Ottawa, we'll be staying at the Wesley Clover Parks Campground. Riders will be responsible for booking their own accommodation. I have reserved a block of sites in the cluster group No 1 D. To reserve your spot, email campground@wesleycloverparks.com and provide them with the following information:
- Club: KVC Cycling Club
- Check in date: August 3rd, 2025
- Check out date : Saturday August 9th, 2025
- Your phone number:
- Your email address:
Questions and Answers
Suggestions or questions?
Contact Danny Major
- Cell Phone 819-775-8155
- Email dmajor60@gmail.com
I'll be travelling from March 19 to May 7, and will only be reachable during this period by email.
Parking?
The formal start location of the trip will be the INVISTA Center rear parking lot. I recommend you cycle to the starting location so you don't have to leave your car overnight. If you're from out of town and need a place to store your vehicle, please contact me so we can make arrangements.
How much will this trip cost?
You are responsible for all your own costs. Here's an cost estimate:
- $540 (9 days @ $60/day for food and drinks)
- $20 for 2-nights camping at the Rideau Locks
- $337 for 6 nights of camping (6 nights @ 58.67/night + tax)
What type of bicycle do I need for the trip?
I recommend a gravel or touring bike with attachments for your gear. On my last trip to Ottawa, I used my mountain bike with a bike rack.
What speed are we expecting to ride?
I expect we'll average around 20km/hr.
Do I have to do all the rides once in Ottawa?
No. You are free to do what ever pleases you. However, I do ask that you inform the ride leader of your intensions.
Can I cut short a scheduled ride?
Yes, however you may be on your own riding back to the campsite. And again, please inform the ride leader of your intensions before splitting from the group.
Can I return to Kingston after a few days?
Yes, however you may be on your own riding back to Kingston. You will also need to ensure that any vehicle back in Kingston is not blocked in.
Can I take a hotel instead of camping?
This trip is intended for those interested in bike camping. Plans for a 3–5 day trip using a hotel as a base to tour Ottawa are also being discussed. If you're interested in this possible option, please contact Danny Major.
Safety/Ride Preparation
- Safety Matters Familiarize yourself with everything under the "Safety Matters" tab
- Lights Use front and rear lights
- Group Riding Communicate your movements (including speed changes) and any obstacles
- No Wheel Overlapping Just don't do it!
- Passing Always on the left, and call it out (typically, "on your left")
- Traffic Laws Obey them!
- Things to Bring
- cell phone (if available), with the app "what3words" installed
- copy of the route (downloaded to a mobile device or printed)
- spare tube, pump and tool kit
- sufficient hydration and nutrition
- health card and document showing address and emergency contact information