Road Biking Routes in Canada
Where to Hike in Canada
Activities in Canada
Canada is one of the world’s great road cycling countries, and it offers two very different styles of it. In the Rockies, road biking in Alberta is built around the Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Lake Louise, widely counted among the finest cycling roads anywhere, along with the Bow Valley Parkway, the car-free Legacy Trail to Canmore and the climb to Moraine Lake, which is closed to private cars. Calgary adds hundreds of kilometres of connected pathway along the Bow River.
On the west coast, road biking in British Columbia is milder and greener. Vancouver Island has the Galloping Goose and Lochside rail trails and the seaside loops around Victoria, where you can often bike through the winter. Inland, the Okanagan Valley pairs long climbs like Anarchist Mountain and Richter Pass with quiet vineyard roads along the Naramata Bench.
The seasons vary. Coastal Vancouver Island is open for most of the year, the Okanagan is best in spring and autumn and hot at midsummer, and the Rockies run from roughly May to October. Most people bike Canada independently, though supported and guided trips are available if you would rather not carry your own kit.
Find an amazing cycling tour in Canada, or, if you aren’t keen on biking, explore the other types of Adventure Holidays on offer in Canada. If you want to explore the world on a mountain bike, then these road bike tours scattered all over the globe are the perfect way to do it!
What’s New in 2026
- The Bow Valley Parkway in Banff is car-free twice this year. Parks Canada closes the eastern 17 km, between the Fireside Day-Use Area and Johnston Canyon, to public vehicles daily from 8 am to 8 pm from 30 April to 25 June 2026 and again from 1 September to 6 October 2026, with the pilot extended through 2029. The same stretch is shut to all travel from 8 pm to 8 am between 1 March and 25 June for wildlife.
- Moraine Lake Road is closed to private vehicles year-round, which has made it one of the quietest climbs in the Rockies. It is open to bikes from 1 June to 12 October 2026, shared with shuttle buses, so an early start is the pick.
- A Parks Canada pass is required for Banff and Jasper, and the Canada Strong Pass waives admission from 19 June to 7 September 2026. Calgary’s pathways, Victoria’s rail trails and the Okanagan roads are all free to use.
- Pick your season by region. Vancouver Island is mild enough to bike through most of the year, the Okanagan is at its best in spring and autumn and gets hot at midsummer, and the Rockies run from roughly May to October, with the Icefields Parkway best from June through September.
The Best Road Biking in Canada
The Canadian Rockies
Road biking in Banff National Park is the centrepiece of Canadian road cycling.
- Jasper to Banff on the Icefields Parkway: the bucket-list multi-day route, 292 km past glaciers and turquoise lakes.
- Moraine Lake Road: closed to private cars, which makes it one of the best and quietest climbs in the park.
- Legacy Trail from Canmore to Banff: mostly dedicated paved path, with big views and a fine day out for the whole family.
Calgary and the foothills
Road biking in Calgary covers one of the largest urban pathway networks in North America.
- Bow River Pathway to Bowness: the full length of the Bow River Pathway, through downtown and out to Bowness.
- Tour de South Calgary: a highlights loop taking in Fish Creek Park, the Glenmore Reservoir and the Bow River.
- Southern Foothills Road to Nepal: rolling foothills roads that are tough on the calves, and rewarding for it.
Victoria and Vancouver Island
Road biking in Victoria is mild enough to enjoy through much of the winter.
- Seaside Loop: one of the most scenic routes on the island, along the bays of Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
- Galloping Goose to Thetis Lake: dedicated bike lanes out through Saanich to Thetis Lake Regional Park.
- Peninsula Loop: shore-hugging lanes with Haro Strait on one side, and orcas if you are lucky.
The Okanagan Valley
Road biking in the Okanagan Valley mixes long climbs with vineyard roads.
- Richter Pass and the Rollers: a demanding day over the steep terrain of Richter Pass and the rolling hills toward Keremeos.
- Anarchist Mountain: a classic climb out of Osoyoos, with wide views back over the lake. Set out early to beat the traffic.
- Naramata Bench Road Cycle: vineyard roads northeast of Penticton above Okanagan Lake. The return uses gravel, so pick your bike accordingly.
Plan Your Trip
Canada is one stop in our wider road biking routes collection. For dirt, browse mountain biking in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions About Road Biking in Canada
Where is the best road biking in Canada?
The Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Lake Louise is the headline route, and the wider Banff area adds the Bow Valley Parkway, the Legacy Trail and the car-free climb to Moraine Lake. On the west coast, Victoria and Vancouver Island offer mild seaside routes and rail trails, while the Okanagan Valley pairs serious climbs with vineyard roads. Calgary has one of the largest urban pathway networks in North America.
When is road biking season in Canada?
It depends on the region. Vancouver Island is mild enough to bike for most of the year, the Okanagan is best in spring and autumn and hot at midsummer, and the Rocky Mountain routes run from roughly May to October, with the Icefields Parkway at its best from June through September.
Do you need a pass to cycle in the Canadian Rockies?
Yes. A Parks Canada pass is required for Banff and Jasper, including for cyclists, though the Canada Strong Pass waives admission from 19 June to 7 September 2026. City pathways in Calgary and Victoria, and the Okanagan roads, are free.
Displaying 38 of 38 routes
Route guides for Hiking in Canada
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Seaside Loop Route Guide
The Seaside Biking loop is one of the most scenic rides in all of Victoria, travelling along the beautiful bays of Victoria’s Inner Harbour and surrounding area. Stop to smell the salty sea air and take in the picturesque fishing villages lining the trail.
Bow River Pathway to Bowness Route Guide
Riding the Bow River Pathway is an incredibly scenic ride in Calgary. Set out on the Bow River Pathway in Sue Higgins Park and ride the entire Bow River to Bowness. Pass through Calgary’s downtown core, countless parks and along the Bow River for pretty views and explore the city’s eclectic group of neighbourhoods.
Tour de South Calgary Route Guide
If you wish to experience the true highlights of Calgary from two-wheels, try the Tour de South Calgary biking route. Passing through the downtown core, Fish Creek Park, the Glenmore Reservoir and the famed Bow River—this ride is not to be missed.
Lochside Trail to Sidney Route Guide
Enjoy a truly picturesque bike ride along the waterfront while biking the Lochside Trail to Sidney bike route. With the perfect blend of nature and urban settings, this bike ride will take you pass farmland, next to small inlets and spit you back out into the city, where the option for a coffee break is never too far away.
Fish Creek East to West Route Guide
For a relaxing parkland ride, set out on the Fish Creek East to West biking trail. Pass over bubbling brooks, lush forests and even stop for an ice cream at Annie’s.
Southern Foothills Road to Nepal Route Guide
The Southern Foothills Road to Nepal biking trail is aptly named for its countless rolling hills that can be killer to the calves. Challenge yourself as you ride over 43.5mi of grueling, but rewarding roads in Calgary, Alberta.
Galloping Goose to Thetis Lake Route Guide
Set out on the Galloping Goose to Thetis Lake bike ride to explore picturesque seaside towns and peaceful glistening lakes. Follow along dedicated bike lanes through the city into Saanich, get your heart rate pumping as you follow the trail over the TransCanada Highway and finally, explore the scenic views at Thetis Lake Regional Park.
Peninsula Loop Route Guide
Set off on the aptly named Peninsula Loop for a bike ride that is popular among riding enthusiasts. Explore a large peninsula, overlooking Haro Strait to the east and the Saanich Inlet to the west. While not overly challenging in terrain, the trail offers shore-hugging lanes, a peak at the far of volcanic Mt. Baker and if you’re lucky, orcas playing in the waves.
Downtown & Nose Hill Park Route Guide
Kick off the Downtown & Nose Hill biking trail riding through the Calgary Zoo, peddling past pretty parks and exploring the surrounding mansions in the popular Nose Hill neighbourhood.
Cowichan Valley Loop from Mill Bay Route Guide
The Cowichan Valley biking loop is a serene trail that winds past farm land and rolling vineyards, making it the perfect sip and peddle route. With cute shops and restaurants dotting the trail, the Cowichan Valley loop is an ideal half-day bike around the coastal towns.
Bow River Pathway in Fish Creek Park Route Guide
Set out on a memorable adventure on the Bow River Pathway to Fish Creek Park bike trial. Challenge your strength on an uphill coulee, then glide past Lafarge Meadows and relax to the sound of the bubbling Bow River.
Goose to Sooke Potholes Route Guide
On the Goose to Sooke Potholes biking route, explore multiple, stunning national parks: Lake Regional Park, Roche Cove Regional Park, then head right along Sooke Basin. There is a campground in Sooke Potholes, so you could do this as part of a bike tour and camp overnight before returning back to Victoria for an overall epic adventure.
Bow River from Inglewood to Edworthy Route Guide
Take in the highlights of Downtown Calgary on the Bow River from Inglewood to Edworthy biking path. Stop for plenty of coffee breaks and to snap mesmerizing photos of the bustling city.
Metchosin Loop Route Guide
The Metchosin Loop bike ride takes in scenic waterside views, weaving through the inner suburbs of Victoria. This moderately challenging ride will take you past the picturesque Fisgaurd Lighthouse, then to the stunning natural Esquimalt Lagoon, where birdlife is abundant.
Glenmore Reservoir Route Guide
Set out for this fun ride on the Glenmore Reservoir biking route, passing valleys, parks and gliding over bridges. This ride is perfect for family with older children looking for an adventurous afternoon out in nature.
North Calgary Loop Route Guide
Experience some of the highlights of Calgary on the North Calgary Loop biking trail. Pass by the Calgary Zoo, West Nose Creek Park, and through Downtown Calgary for some exceptional city views.
Cowichan Valley Trail to Kinsol Trestle Route Guide
Bring the whole family on the Cowichan Valley Trail to Kinsol Trestle trail for an epic bike ride! Pass over a smaller trestle on the way to the main attraction, the Kinsol Trestle. From here, take in incredible views over the Koksilah River and prepare for a steep ride back.
Western Headworks Canal to Chestermere Route Guide
Discover a pretty biking trail surrounding Chestermere Lake in Calgary, Alberta. This path weaves in and out of quiet streets and peaceful neighbourhoods for a relaxing ride.
Colquitz River Trail Route Guide
The Colquitz River Trail is a great little ride, perfect for the entire family. Pass through multiple parks (and playgrounds!), following directly beside the Colquitz River at times. End the ride at the Red Barn Market, where an indulgent lunch awaits.
Munns Road Loop Route Guide
Those looking for a challenging ride in an urban setting will be thrilled to have discovered the Munns Road Loop. Prepare for lots of steady climbs and descents on Munns Road and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic ocean views. If you want to test your endurance, stop by the Mount Work area where you can throw in a hike between peddling sessions.
Jasper to Banff Road Biking Trail Route Guide
The Jasper to Banff bike ride along the Icefields Parkway sits on many bucket lists. This multi-day route travels one of the most scenic roads in the world, taking you through almost untouched wilderness. Cell service and supply points are rare, so be sure to carry what you need for the trip. This is an especially great trip if you join a tour. We suggest a four-day itinerary for this trip.
For those who like convenience, check out the fully supported guided Jasper to Banff Road Biking Tour.
Minnewanka Loop Route Guide
The bike ride around Lake Minnewanka on the Minnewanka Loop is a classic road bike ride near the town of Banff. Head out from town along Banff Avenue and quickly get on a beautiful bike loop that provides great views, and often lots of wildlife. Enjoy the rollercoaster ride back to town.
Banff to Lake Louise Route Guide
The bike ride from Banff to Lake Louise (and back) is a classic! Ride along the Bow Valley Parkway, where traffic is slowed to 37.3mi/hr and there isn’t too much traffic. You can do this bike ride one-way by booking a taxi or arranging a car shuttle to Lake Louise and then riding downhill from Lake Louise back to Banff.
Lake Louise to Bow Summit Road Biking Trail Route Guide
Any bike ride on the Icefields Parkway is spectacular, and this bike ride takes in two incredible highlights: Bow Lake and Peyto Lake viewpoint. These are two of the best views in all of Banff National Park. Start early and you’ll have limited traffic to contend with.
Sunshine Road Route Guide
Ride your bike from Banff through Vermilion Lakes, and then up the Sunshine Ski Hill Road. In summer this road is usually not too busy, and it is a great workout with hills and excellent views. Combine this with a gondola ride to Sunshine Meadows and enjoy an epic day in the Canadian Rockies.
Legacy Trail from Canmore to Banff Route Guide
The Legacy Trail is a classic bike route in Banff, connecting the nearby town of Canmore with Banff. This bike ride is mostly on dedicated bike path, and you’ll enjoy great views and a fun day out for the whole family.
Vermilion Lakes Route Guide
Rent a bike and ride out to Vermilion Lakes from Banff. This is the most popular bike ride for visitors to Banff, and is famous for stunning views of the surrounding mountains reflecting in the calm Vermilion Lakes.
Banff Springs Golf Course Loop Route Guide
This is a wonderful bike ride in Banff, taking you to the Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls and then out along the Banff Springs Golf Course, on a pretty loop that follows the Bow River for part of the ride.
Moraine Lake Road Biking Route Route Guide
Getting to Moraine Lake by car is challenging these days, so why not go by bike? This beautiful ride allows you to arrive at Moraine Lake on your own time. Enjoy the wonderful ride, as the restrictions on car traffic on Moraine Lake Road means a much better bike ride at most times of the day.
Tunnel Mountain Loop Route Guide
The Tunnel Mountain Loop is a fun bike ride in Banff. The highlight of this bike ride is the descent from Tunnel Mountain, particularly the view from Surprise Corner, and the stunning Banff Springs Hotel.
Norquay Road Route Guide
The bike ride up the Norquay Scenic Road is a wonderful route, providing great views on a challenging road made up of repetitive switchbacks. This is a great training ride and also a nice ride to pair with one of Banff’s other bike rides.
Great Divide Route (1A) Route Guide
This bumpy bike ride follows a deteriorating, paved road from Lake Louise Drive along the retired highway 1A, now closed to vehicle traffic. Enjoy this peaceful ride past the great divide and into Yoho National Park.
Richter Pass and the Rollers Route Guide
Cycling Richter Pass and the Rollers is a lengthy adventure in the Okanagan Valley that will see you traverse a route that is most well-known for being a part of the Ironman Canada challenge. While out on the route, you will climb uphill through the steep terrain of Richter Pass and traverse some rolling hills on the way to Keremeos before turning back to do it all over again in the opposite direction. This is a physically demanding, albeit exhilarating, day out on the road.
Naramata Bench Road Cycle Route Guide
The Naramata Bench Road Cycle is an amazing long distance cycling route that will lead you through the terrain to the northeast of Penticton for some lovely views overlooking Okanagan Lake. While out cycling this trail, you will pass by the various vineyards along the Naramata Bench before climbing uphill towards Chute Lake to meet up with the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. It is best not to attempt this route on a road bike, as the return portion of the journey along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail is made up of gravel.
Anarchist Mountain Trail Route Guide
Cycling Anarchist Mountain is a great adventure that will take you uphill from Osoyoos for some breathtaking views overlooking the lake and surrounding Okanagan Valley landscape. While out on this classic climb, you will make your way across Osoyoos Lake and steadily uphill past lovely wineries and rugged mountain peaks before reaching the scenic viewpoints at the top of the trail. Be sure to set out early in order to avoid the traffic that will inevitably be on the road during later times of day.
Oliver to Okanagan Falls Trail Route Guide
Cycling from Oliver to Okanagan Falls is a great excursion that will allow you to experience some beautiful vistas within the Okanagan Valley and get a good amount of exercise in the process. While out on this route, you will climb uphill through beautifully scenic rural landscapes and make your way along the edge of White Lake Grasslands Protected Area before descending through Okanagan Falls for the return leg of the journey alongside Vaseux Lake. There are a fair amount of ups and downs along the way, but the views that sweep across the Okanagan Valley are well with the effort.
Osoyoos to Jackson Triggs Winery via Black Sage Road Route Guide
The ride from Osoyoos to Jackson Triggs Winery is a pleasant cycling adventure that will take you past the Okanagan Valley’s most well-known vineyards. While out cycling this relatively quiet route, you will make your way northwest along BC-97 and break off to the east along Black Sage Road, where you will pass through picturesque vineyards on either side until you arrive at the Jackson Triggs Winery. No cycling trip in the Okanagan Valley is complete without experiencing this breathtaking stretch of countryside.
Penticton to Skaha and Green Lakes Trail Route Guide
Penticton to Skaha and Green Lakes is an amazing cycling route that will expose you to some truly stunning views of the Okanagan Valley landscape. While out on this route, you will leave Penticton behind and travel along the gorgeous shores of Skaha Lake before passing through Okanagan Falls. At this point, you will climb through the hillside to pass by See Ya Later Ranch on the way to visit the Green and Mahoney Lakes. While some out-and-back routes are a bit of a chore, this one is a true pleasure, allowing you to relive the stunning scenery all over again.
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