Frosty Trails: Ottawa & Gatineau Biking Routes
exploring winter's snowscape on two-wheels
Embrace the wintry wonderland of the Outaouais as we unveil the ultimate cycling adventure for winter enthusiasts. Our curated selection of trails winds through the picturesque landscapes of Gatineau Park and the enchanting Larose Forest. Prepare to pedal through snow-dusted trails, amidst frosted trees, and along serene snowscapes, experiencing the beauty of the winter season on two wheels.
Gatineau Park Fat Biking Routes
Where can I park my car?
What are some cool trail features/ highlights along this route?
- Open fire pit to warm up (Gatineau Parkway and Champlain Parkway intersection)
- The cool and challenging climbing sections along trail #68 and #76
Where can I grab some coffee/ tea or a bite to eat after the ride?
Anything else I need to know before hitting the trails?
- To ride these trails, you need a valid NCC Pass; to purchase a NCC Daily or Season's Pass, click here. For info about how to borrow a Season's Pass from a local library, click here.
- Prior to leaving, please ensure to check if the trails are open (weather-dependent), and their condition on NCC's Snow Biking Conditions page.
- Parking lots in Gatineau Park fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Please make sure to consult NCC's Parking Lot Status page before leaving.
Where can I park my car?
What are some cool trail features/ highlights along this route?
Where can I grab some coffee/ tea or a bite to eat after the ride?
Anything else I need to know before hitting the trails?
- To ride these trails, you need a valid NCC Pass; to purchase a NCC Daily or Season's Pass, click here. For info about how to borrow a Season's Pass from a local library, click here.
- Prior to leaving, please ensure to check if the trails are open (weather-dependent), and their condition on NCC's Snow Biking Conditions page.
- Parking lots in Gatineau Park fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Please make sure to consult NCC's Parking Lot Status page before leaving.
Where can I park my car?
- P15
- Please note the re-positioning of P15, effective as of this winter.
What are some cool trail highlights along this route?
Where can I grab some coffee/ tea or a bite to eat after the ride?
Anything else I need to know before hitting the trails?
- To ride these trails, you need a valid NCC Pass; to purchase a NCC Daily or Season's Pass, click here. For info about how to borrow a Season's Pass from a local library, click here.
- Prior to leaving, please ensure to check if the trails are open (weather-dependent), and their condition on NCC's Snow Biking Conditions page.
- Parking lots in Gatineau Park fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Please make sure to consult NCC's Parking Lot Status page before leaving.
Larose Forest Fat Biking Routes
Where can I park my car?
What are some cool trail highlights along this route?
Where can I grab some coffee/ tea or a bite to eat after the ride?
- Euphie d'ici Café & Smoothie Bar, Embrun, Ontario (if headed back towards the 417)
- Café Joyeux, Rockland, Ontario (if headed back towards the 174)
- Chez Joanne, Limoges, Ontario
Anything else I need to know before hitting the trails?
- To ride these trails, you need a valid OMBA Membership; to become a Member, click here.
- Prior to leaving, please ensure to check if the trails are open (weather-dependent), and their condition through the following resources:
- Some routes are uni-directional, always follow trail signage on site.
Where can I park my car?
What are some cool trail highlights along this route?
Where can I grab some coffee/ tea or a bite to eat after the ride?
- Euphie d'ici Café & Smoothie Bar, Embrun, Ontario (if headed back towards the 417)
- Café Joyeux, Rockland, Ontario (if headed back towards the 174)
- Chez Joanne, Limoges, Ontario
Anything else I need to know before hitting the trails?
- To ride these trails, you need a valid OMBA Membership; to become a Member, click here.
- Prior to leaving, please ensure to check if the trails are open (weather-dependent), and their condition through the following resources:
- Some routes are uni-directional, always follow trail signage on site.
Where can I park my car?
What are some cool trail highlights along this route?
Where can I grab some coffee/ tea or a bite to eat after the ride?
- Euphie d'ici Café & Smoothie Bar, Embrun, Ontario (if headed back towards the 417)
- Café Joyeux, Rockland, Ontario (if headed back towards the 174)
Anything else I need to know before hitting the trails?
- To ride these trails, you need a valid OMBA Membership; to become a Member, click here.
- Prior to leaving, please ensure to check if the trails are open (weather-dependent), and their condition through the following resources:
- Some routes are uni-directional, always follow trail signage on site.
Additional winter riding and route use info:
Winter Maintenance
A well maintained bike is a happy bike! To ensure your winter trail rides go smoothly, make sure you bring in your bike to Quick Cranks for its regular maintenance.
Layering is Key
Staying warm and dry while riding throughout the winter months is essential. We recommend starting with a solid wool or synthetic base layer, then layering on top a fleece or sweater, followed by a down or puffer jacket. If conditions are cold and windy, an additional waterproof outers shell may be required.
Lights
As the winter days grow shorter and darkness lingers during dawn, dusk, and even through the night, it's crucial to prioritize safety when hitting the trails. Before embarking on your cycling adventures during these dimmer hours, ensure you're well-prepared with adequately bright front and rear lights. These lights aren't just accessories—they're your beacon of safety, illuminating your path and making you visible to others on the road or trail. Don't let the lack of daylight hinder your ride; invest in reliable, fully charged lights that will keep you safe and visible in these low-light conditions.
Ensure that you have at least a 700 Lumen front light (if riding during dusk or dawn) and at least 1000+ if you plan on hitting the trails after dark.
Route Familiarity & Safety
Trying out new trails? Before you hit the trails, make sure that you are familiar with the trail numbers along the route, trail markers, shelters, etc.
Route Use
Please note, while we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information on cycling routes, there may be variance in the actual routes compared to the mapped ones. Trail conditions are subject to change due to weather, maintenance, or other factors beyond our control. Users are advised to exercise caution, stay informed about current conditions, and use their discretion when navigating the suggested routes. We do not assume any liability for any injuries, damages, or inconveniences that may arise from following the suggested routes. Cyclists are encouraged to prioritize safety and adapt their plans accordingly.
Have questions for us before you hit the trails?
We’re here to serve as your local experts on all things cycling.