Quiet country roads, small town hospitality and scenic routes make the County Trails a road cyclist’s dream come true! Located in the heart of historic Lennox and Addington County, the County Trails are comprised of 12 looped routes stretching from the peaceful shorelines of Adolphustown in the south of the region to Mazinaw Lake’s breathtaking and rugged beauty in the north. But don’t let the word ‘Trails’ mislead you! Most of these cycling routes boast wide paved shoulders, low traffic, and courteous motorists who share the road, making them a pleasure to pedal. With distances ranging from 24 kilometers to 102 kilometers, each route is unique and rewards cyclists of all abilities an unforgettable day in the saddle.
Here are three routes which have quickly become favourites for locals. Each has the perfect combination of hills for a challenge, flat stretches to test your speed and of course, the gorgeous scenery Land O’Lakes is famous for.
Route E, Camden
Lush farmland, friendly towns and the naturally beautiful Camden Lake Wildlife Management Area make this route a must-try for road cyclists this summer. Hear the haunting call of loons as you ride a circular loop around Camden and Varty Lakes. At 64 kilometers long, this route is short enough to ride self-supported, but with the lure of squeaky cheese curds in Wilton, or fresh produce at farm stands in Camden East, Odessa and Yarker, you’ll want to tuck a few extra dollars into your jersey to make this ride as tasty as it is tranquil.
Route F, Sheffield
Be sure you have done your hill training before tackling the 78 kilometer Sheffield route! Granite outcrops tower over you as you push your way to the top of the hills on this challenging ride, where you are rewarded with sweeping views of rugged lakes and of course, descents which will take your breath away! Pristine wilderness, including Puzzle Lake Provincial Park, is the backdrop for this ride and it isn’t uncommon to spy deer, foxes or otters throughout the landscape.
Route G, Salmon River
At 54 kilometers long, the scenic Salmon River route is mostly flat and fast and rated easy. Novice road cyclists will love this route for leisurely weekend long rides and the opportunity to stop for freshly baked goodies at Abrams Bakery in Newburgh or Len’s Bakery in Napanee. Intermediate cyclists will appreciate the opportunity to let loose on the wide paved shoulders – but we recommend enjoying the serenity of Salmon River’s soothing waters.
Go The Extra Distance
As with all road cycling rides, keep safety top of mind. Always carry the tools you need to change a flat tire, as sections of some of these routes do have broken pavement and short gravel sections. Depending on your carrier, cell service may not be available at all times, so please leave your itinerary and estimated time of return with someone at home. Most of all, enjoy your ride – and we hope to see you on the Lennox & Addington Trails!