🚴 Rail Trails in Ontario & Quebec You’ll Want to Ride

Rail Trail Series: Part 1 — Ontario & Quebec

About a dozen years ago, I rode from Ottawa (Canada’s capital) to Carleton Place, a small town west of the city, entirely on a converted rail bed. It was straight, scenic, and surprisingly effortless - my first rail trail ride.

Since then, rail trails have taken off across North America—transforming old train lines into flat, family-friendly paths perfect for casual rides and weekend walks.

Because our readers span both Canada and the U.S., I’m kicking off a 4-part rail trail series that showcases easy, scenic routes across regions:

Upcoming: Ontario & Quebec (this week), Eastern U.S., Western Canada, Western U.S.

📍Not in your region this week?
Scroll to the bottom and try the GTMTB Assistant—just mention “rail trail + your area” in the prompt, and it’ll find one near you.

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The Why-Factor

Why These Trails Shine in Spring

Former rail lines = naturally flat, scenic, and stress-free—perfect for a casual spring stroll or ride.

🚴 Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail (Ottawa area)
Vibe: Quiet countryside
Why Now: Wildflowers, budding trees, and cozy cafés reopening in Bourget and Plantagenet—two small towns east of Canada’s capital city.

🌼 Caledon Trailway (Greater Toronto Area)
Vibe: Small-town charm
Why Now: Dry gravel (even after rain), plus craft fairs and pop-up patios in Inglewood and Caledon East—charming towns just northwest of Toronto.

🌊 Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (Ajax to Whitby)
Vibe: Breezy and coastal
Why Now: Lake Ontario views, boardwalk strolls, and Lynde Shores Conservation Area—all within an hour’s drive east of Toronto.

🏞️ Le P’tit Train du Nord (Laurentians, QC)
Vibe: Forest + mountain escape
Why Now: Greening trails, spring waterfalls, and fresh eats in Mont-Tremblant and Val-David—a scenic region north of Montreal, known for its outdoor escapes.

These four rail trails are great for biking or walking, thanks to their flat grades, scenic routes, and relaxed pacing.

Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail (Ottawa area)
Best Segment: Bourget to Plantagenet
Distance: ~22 km one way
Highlight: Quiet farmland, South Nation River crossings, and picnic spots with interpretive signs.

Caledon Trailway (Greater Toronto Area)
Best Segment: Inglewood to Caledon East
Distance: ~15 km one way
Highlight: Tree-lined paths, rolling hills, and a stop at Spirit Tree Cidery for cider, snacks, and sunshine.

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (Ajax to Whitby)
Best Segment: Rotary Park (Ajax) to Whitby Harbour
Distance: ~12–14 km one way
Highlight: Lake Ontario views, boardwalks through marshland, and a side trip to Lynde Shores Conservation Area.

Le P’tit Train du Nord (Laurentians, QC)
Best Segment: Mont-Tremblant to Labelle
Distance: ~30 km one way
Highlight: Lakeside riding, shaded forest stretches, and restored train stations with food stops in Mont-Tremblant Village.

📸 _{Image via @waterfront_rt – Ajax, ON}

📸 _{Image via @ptittraindunord – Parc Lineaire le P’tit Train du Nord}

Things to Do After Your Ride or Walk

Make it more than just a trail day—each of these spots offers a relaxing post-ride reward nearby.

Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail (Eastern Ontario, near Ottawa)

Beau’s All Natural Brewing Co. (Vankleek Hill)
Enjoy a craft beer flight at one of Ontario’s most beloved small-town breweries.

Voyageur Provincial Park
Picnic, birdwatch, or stroll along the Ottawa River, just minutes from the trail.

Caledon Trailway (Northwest of Toronto)

Albion Hills Conservation Park
Scenic hiking trails, wide open picnic spots, and tranquil forest views.

Four Corners Bakery Café (Caledon East)
Fresh pastries, espresso, and a cozy vibe in one of the town’s most charming cafés.

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (Ajax to Whitby, east of Toronto)

Lynde Shores Conservation Area
A local gem for birdwatching and peaceful wetland walks.

Port Whitby Marina
Grab a table on the water for fresh seafood or a relaxing drink by the lake.

Le P’tit Train du Nord (Laurentians, north of Montreal)

Mont-Tremblant Resort
Ride the gondola for sweeping views or explore the lively pedestrian village with restaurants and shops.

Lac Mercier Beach (near Mont-Tremblant)
Swim, relax, or rent a paddleboard on this calm Laurentian lake.

Local Restaurants & Lodging Ideas

Round out your trail day with great food and a comfortable place to stay—each location has options for a quick stop or a full weekend getaway.

Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail (Eastern Ontario, near Ottawa)

Eat: Le Chardo (Alfred) – A cozy bistro serving French-inspired dishes made with local ingredients.

Stay: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Casselman – A modern hotel with free breakfast and fitness facilities.

Caledon Trailway (Northwest of Toronto)

Eat: Spirit Tree Estate Cidery (Caledon) – Farm-to-table meals and house-made cider in a rustic orchard setting.

Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Bolton – Comfortable, modern rooms with an indoor pool and fitness center.

Great Lakes Waterfront Trail (Ajax to Whitby, east of Toronto)

Eat: PORT Restaurant (Pickering) – Lakeside dining with a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients.

Stay: Homewood Suites by Hilton Ajax – Suite-style rooms with full kitchens, ideal for families or longer stays.

Le P’tit Train du Nord (Laurentians, north of Montreal)

Eat: La Sandwicherie Café + Bistro (Mont-Tremblant) – A charming stop for gourmet sandwiches and pastries.

Stay: Hotel Mont-Tremblant – A historic, trail-adjacent hotel offering comfortable, relaxed lodging in a central location.

Why These Rail Trail Regions Work

• Ottawa’s countryside blends quiet farmland, riverside crossings, and small-town cafés—ideal for a gentle spring escape.

• Toronto’s outer edges offer green corridors and charming towns just beyond the city—perfect for relaxed rides and cider stops.

• The Lake Ontario shoreline delivers boardwalks, breezes, and birdwatching within easy reach of urban comforts.

• Quebec’s Laurentians combine forested trails, lakeside riding, and mountain village charm for a full weekend getaway.

Want ideas closer to home—or a walk that fits your weekend vibe?

Try the GTMTB Custom Assistant —your personal trip planner for trails, walks, and weekend getaways. Whether you're after stroller-friendly paths, lakeside loops, or forest escapes, it’ll help you find the right route for your pace and crew.

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