5 Early-Season Bike Ride Suggestions

One of our favourite things about adventure racing is the fun to be had getting ready for race day.   Here are some awesome early-season bike rides that are perfect for March and April because they avoid muddy trails, are relatively easy on the hills, and all feature options for a mid-ride rest stop!
 
 1. Milton.  Ride the Halton Agreement Forest doubletrack trails west from Sixth Line, then head over to Campbellford to the Flying Monkey Bike Shop for some amazing coffee.  Check hafta.ca for trail conditions first (ride dirt - not mud!)   If it is muddy, stick to the area roads and make a loop that has you popping into Dar’s Delights on First Line for homemade donuts.
 
2.  Hamilton.  Try the Brantford to Hamilton Rail Trail, starting anywhere along this flat-ish route that is ready to ride early season.  To make it extra fun, start in Dundas by the Grit and Grains Brewery and go out as far as you feel like, knowing your car is parked next to some rewarding suds.   This way also has you climbing a wee bit on the way out, making the ride-to-beer easier on the return.
 
3. Guelph area.  Elora-Cataract Trailway.  Another flat route has you starting from Belwood and heading west to the Elora Brewing Company, or for a shorter trip, lunch in Fergus.   There are lots of options on this rail trail.
 
4. Durham.  Park at Durham Forest, but be sure to hold your excitement and stay off the trails until they are dry.  Instead, stretch your legs out on area roads while working your way over to Hy Hope Farm for butter tarts, whoopie pies and coffee.  On the return, grab some fresh spring water near Lakeridge Ski Club.
 
5.  Turkey Point  A little further away for some, but Turkey Point offers an awesome network of trails and the best part of it is they are usually the first to dry out in the spring.  After you’re done check out Charlotteville Brewing Company.
 
All these places are easy to find on Google.  If you’re new to these spots, check out Mapmyride, RidewithGPS or Strava to help with route planning!   
 
Where do you ride early in the season?