Two days of cycling leaves enough time to make some headway on the Niagara River Recreation Trail, with attractions to see in both the North and South directions. Below are two suggested routes. The northern route takes you through orchards, vineyards and into historic Niagara-on-the-Lake. The southern route will take you past the Falls and beyond toward Fort Erie on quiet less travelled routes.
- The Greenbelt Express: North to Niagara-on-the-Lake (50km round trip)
- South to Fort Erie (75km round trip)
The Greenbelt Express: North to Niagara-on-the-Lake (50 km round trip) Day 1 (25km)
This first day will take you North along the Niagara River Recreation Trail towards the heart of the Niagara region's Greenbelt: Niagara-on-the-Lake. It will take you past the Sir Adam Beck Hydro Generating station, Butterfly Conservatory, Floral Clock and Botanical Gardens. Once you coast down the escarpment you will enter into wine country where you will be surrounded by vineyards and orchards. This protected land is all part of the Greenbelt, with a rich agricultural history. After a leisurely cycle of one and a half to two hours you will have arrived in Niagara-on-the-Lake. You'll find plenty of places to stay.
Activities
- Relax in the botanical Gardens
- Check out the Butterfly Conservatory
- Wineries in the Niagara-on-the-Lake Region
- Historic Fort George
- Niagara-on-the-Lake Historic District
- Shaw Theatre Festival
Accomodations: Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce
Day 2 (25km)
Explore the heart of the wineries by taking the Upper Canada Heritage back south. This equestrian path is suitable for those with larger tires and can get muddy at times, but Concession 1 that runs adjacent is a quiet road more than suitable for cycling. This path cut directly through wine country allowing you to sample Niagara's finest vintages. Check out some of the activities you may have missed the day before, or there's also time to check out the falls before doubling back in order to catch the train home. Don't forget that you're going up the escarpment today, so leave extra time for breaks.
South to Fort Erie (75 km round Trip)
This route will take you past Falls and the town of Niagara Falls. After passing enjoying the view, you will quickly escape the crowds as you meander down the Niagara River Recreation Trail to Fort Erie. Fort Erie is a destination in itself, and a gateway to Buffalo, NY.
Day 1 (35km)
Head south along the Niagara River Recreation Trail to the Falls. Check out some Falls Attractions and grab a bite to eat before the cycle down the river to Fort Erie. When you arrive in Fort Erie, check out the Lake Erie waterfront and its many beaches.
Attractions:
- The Falls
- Falls attractions, Niagara parks and attractions
- Niagara River
- Fort Erie
- Historic Forts Chippawa and Erie
- Peace Bridge to Buffalo
Day 2 (40km)
Start your day out with a ride along the Friendship Trail heading West. Explore the many side paths and beaches along the way. Head north along one of the quiet country roads for a peaceful trip back to Niagara Falls. Check out some of the attractions that you may have missed on the way down.
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