The best cycling routes around Lake Simcoe
4.6
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395
riders
13
rides
Touring cycling routes around Lake Simcoe feature diverse landscapes, including paved roads, multi-use rail trails, and forested paths. The region is characterized by extensive waterfronts along Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, offering scenic vistas. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from flat lakeside routes through the Holland Marsh to areas with rolling hills. The network provides access to natural features such as forests and the shores of Wasaga Beach.
Best touring cycling routes around Lake Simcoe
- The most popular touring cycling route is Crestwood Beach – Franklin Beach loop from Georgina, a 23.7 miles (38.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete. This route offers views of Lake Simcoe's eastern shore and passes through established farm areas.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Johnson's Beach Park loop from Barrie, an easy 12.4 miles (20.0 km) path. This route provides access to the Barrie waterfront along Kempenfelt Bay, featuring sandy beaches and parks.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Tudhope Park loop from Mariposa Arts Theatre Foundation, a 10.0 miles (16.1 km) trail leading through Orillia's waterfront, often completed in about 57 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lake Simcoe is defined by lakeside paths, multi-use rail trails, and forested routes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly rides to more moderate routes.
- The routes in Lake Simcoe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Simcoe's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 25, 2026
5.0
(10)
27
riders
38.2km
02:10
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
27
riders
20.2km
01:18
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
riders
19.1km
01:04
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
19
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lake Simcoe
Tips from the Community
This is where the Millennium Trail meets the Uhthoff Trail. Part of the Trans Canada Trail, the Uhthoff Trail takes walkers, cyclists and runners to scenic wooded areas, wetlands and across many streams.
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Couchiching Beach Park has a number of attractions, as well as its small beach. There's a miniature steam railway, fountains, flower gardens, picnic tables and a skating rink in the winter. It's a good spot to stop at if you're walking the Millennium Trail and there are toilet facilities here too.
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Stories Converge is a sculpture by artist Kyle Thornley that features a sizeable eastern white pine cone with a round metal bench with room for half-a-dozen people. He chose the white pine as its history is strongly connected to the history of people in the region. It's one of nine pieces that form the Crossroads, Connections and Intersections project.
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The Millennium Trail through Tudhope Park is paved and takes you right along the edge of the water. There are a series of informative plaques along the path that tell you about the area's industrial history. Parts of the Millennium Trail follow an old railroad grade that used to run through Orillia.
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The park is large and has lots of trails, green spaces, shady benches, and coastline to explore. You can dip your toes in the water from Moose Beach after your walk, and there is sometimes an ice cream stand open near the parking lot.
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This statue, "Golden Leaves", commemorates musical artist Gordon Lightfoot. Twenty-six different designs on leaves above Gordon's head each represent a different song from the 1975 album "Gord's Gold". Lightfoot was born in Orillia and the statue was gifted to the city in 2015.
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You can catch some shade in the pavilion or along the tree-lined portion of the waterfront trail on the east side of the park, which is split to separate cyclists and walkers. A rose garden and military memorial line the path a few metres back from the water.
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Past the splash fountains you'll find a metal sculpture of a sea serpent dubbed "Kempenfelt Kelly" overlooking the water. Paved walking trails take you around a small pond and pavilion, and you can walk out along the jetty on the south side of the park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Lake Simcoe?
The Lake Simcoe region offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find a mix of paved roads, multi-use rail trails, and forested paths. The landscape varies from flat, leisurely lakeside routes, including sections through the unique Holland Marsh, to areas with rolling hills and escarpments, such as the 'Hills of Oro-Medonte' which provide more challenging climbs and descents.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Lake Simcoe has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Johnson's Beach Park loop from Barrie is an easy 12.4-mile (20.0 km) path that offers access to the Barrie waterfront. Another accessible option is the Tudhope Park loop from Mariposa Arts Theatre Foundation, a 10.0-mile (16.1 km) trail through Orillia's waterfront.
What natural features and landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Cycling around Lake Simcoe offers numerous scenic views and points of interest. You can enjoy extensive waterfronts along Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, ride through rich forests, and even experience the unique agricultural landscape of the Holland Marsh. Notable landmarks include the 'Spirit Catcher' sculpture in Barrie, the Trent-Severn Waterway's Lock 42 near Orillia, and the historic Mnjikaning Fish Weirs. Some routes also pass near Awenda Provincial Park and Sibbald Point Provincial Park, offering additional natural beauty.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Lake Simcoe area?
There are over 10 touring cycling routes available in the Lake Simcoe area, catering to various skill levels. The komoot community has explored 13 distinct routes, with 9 classified as easy and 4 as moderate, ensuring options for everyone from casual riders to more experienced touring cyclists.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Lake Simcoe?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Lake Simcoe are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Crestwood Beach – Franklin Beach loop from Georgina, which takes you along Lake Simcoe's eastern shore, and the Franklin Beach loop from Parkside Marine, both offering convenient circular journeys.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lake Simcoe?
The Lake Simcoe area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene lakeside paths to multi-use rail trails and forested routes. The accessibility of routes for different ability levels and the scenic waterfront vistas are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Lake Simcoe?
The best time for touring cycling around Lake Simcoe is generally from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is most favorable, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant, offering pleasant temperatures for riding and beautiful scenery. Summer provides opportunities for lakeside stops and swimming, while spring and fall offer cooler rides and stunning foliage.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in the region?
While many routes are easy to moderate, the region does offer areas with more challenging terrain. The 'Hills of Oro-Medonte' provide significant elevation gains and demanding climbs, testing the abilities of more experienced cyclists. These routes often feature long descents and breathtaking views, particularly towards the Niagara Escarpment.
Can I find places to stop for food or drinks along the cycling routes?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Lake Simcoe pass through or near quaint towns and villages, offering opportunities to stop for food, drinks, and other amenities. Towns like Orillia, Barrie, and the Village of Coldwater provide various options for cafes, restaurants, and shops, allowing you to refuel and relax during your ride.
What kind of views can I expect along the Lake Simcoe touring routes?
You can expect spectacular views along the Lake Simcoe touring routes. Many paths hug the shores of Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, offering expansive waterfront vistas. Routes also take you through rich forests, past the unique agricultural fields of the Holland Marsh, and along the lively Barrie waterfront. Some areas, particularly near the Niagara Escarpment, provide breathtaking panoramic views.
How long does it take to complete a typical touring cycling route in Lake Simcoe?
The duration of touring cycling routes in Lake Simcoe varies depending on the distance and your pace. For instance, an easy route like the Franklin Beach loop from Metro Road / Varney Road, which is 19.1 km, typically takes around 1 hour 4 minutes. Longer, moderate routes, such as the Crestwood Beach – Franklin Beach loop from Georgina (38.2 km), can take approximately 2 hours 9 minutes.
Most popular routes around Lake Simcoe
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