The best traffic-free bike rides in Short Hills Provincial Park

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the area, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevations to suit different preferences.

The routes in this guide are primarily easy to moderate. You'll find 4 easy routes and 2 moderate routes, making the area accessible for a wide range of road cyclists. There are no difficult routes listed in this selection.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. For example, you can try the Roadbike loop from Pelham or the Roadbike loop from Fonthill.

Many of the routes are suitable for families, especially the easy-rated loops. The focus on 'no traffic' ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for all ages. Consider routes like the 26 km Roadbike loop from Pretzelmaker, which is rated easy.

While the park itself is known for its 'short hills' and rugged terrain, the road cycling routes in the surrounding area generally feature rolling terrain with manageable elevations. For instance, the Roadbike loop from Pelham has an elevation gain of around 88 meters, while the Niagara River loop from St. Catharines involves about 295 meters of ascent over a longer distance.

While the road cycling routes primarily focus on the quieter roads surrounding Short Hills Provincial Park, the park itself is home to natural attractions like Swayze Falls and sections of the Bruce Trail. The routes offer scenic views of the Niagara region's landscapes, including lush Carolinian forests and open meadows. For specific viewpoints, you might need to explore the multi-use trails within the park on foot or with a mountain bike, as dedicated paved road cycling within the park is limited.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in this area, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the quiet roads, scenic views, and the opportunity to explore the beautiful Niagara region away from heavy traffic.

Parking is typically available at the start points of many routes, often in nearby towns or designated public areas. For example, routes starting from 'Pretzelmaker' or 'Pelham' would have parking options in those respective communities. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's wise to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to potential ice and snow.

The routes often pass through or near small towns and communities like Pelham, Fonthill, or St. Catharines, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores for refreshments. It's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance and carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides like the Niagara River loop from St. Catharines.

While public transport options might get you to nearby towns, direct public transport access to Short Hills Provincial Park for cycling might be limited. The park maintains an undeveloped, back-to-nature experience with no visitor centers. It's generally recommended to drive to a suitable starting point for your road cycling route in the surrounding area.