Rolling hills, winding rivers, and more photo ops than you’ll have time to stop for: Blue Mountain Village’s Pedal and Paddle Adventure is the perfect way to spend a summer day.
Inspired by popular cycling adventures in Europe, the Pedal & Paddle route takes you on a day-long exploration of the rolling hills and winding rivers just outside Blue Mountain Village. Did we mention the wineries and cider houses along the way?
Here’s your step-by-step guide to a perfect day on the trail:
Step 1: Rent Your Bike and Hit the Trail
Rent a bike in the Blue Mountain Village or bring your own hybrid or mountain bike, and start your adventure with a ride up the gondola to the top of the mountain. (Pro tip – bikes can be brought up on the gondola too!) Take in views of Georgian Bay, the Nottawasaga Lighthouse, and Blue Mountain Village below.
Step 2: Pedal, Pedal, Pedal
About the route: The Pedal and Paddle route is 40 kilometers of rolling hills, farm fields, and apple orchards. A big bonus: After a challenging climb at the start of the ride, the rest of your cycle is a leisurely cruise through down through Beaver Valley and back to Blue Mountain Village.
Step 3: Take a Refreshing Break
There’s no shortage of spots to take a break along the Pedal and Paddle route. Lunch at Blackbird Pie Company is included in the Pedal and Paddle package, with hearty sandwiches and home-baked treats to keep you going. The nearby Georgian Hills Vineyard has award-winning wines and ciders to quench your thirst (not to mention a great patio to enjoy a drink on!)
Step 4: Go for a Paddle
Trade in your wheels for a paddle, and sit back and relax on the Beaver River. Pick up your rental canoe or kayak at Free Spirit Tours, and enjoy a one-hour paddling experience. As you float down the river, keep your eyes open for the birds and wildlife that call the Beaver River home.
Step 5: Relax at one of the Cideries or Breweries along the homestretch.
Take a bit of a detour and wind down your day with a visit to Thornbury Village Cider House & Brewery. Their craft cider is made with 100% local Ontario apples and their cider house is in the heart of the picturesque village of Thornbury. Down the road in Blue Mountain Village is Northwinds Brewery, specializing in local craft beers and farm-to-table dishes. Of course, any good cycling trip should end with a drink on the patio, and the Northwinds Patio has one of the best views of Blue Mountain.
Step 6: Pamper yourself
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newbie, a 40 km trek definitely means you deserve to reward yourself for a job well done. Try out a yoga class at iwa spa in one of their rock sauna studios. Heated to 40-42°C., the stone studio floor soothes muscles, accelerates metabolism, eliminates toxins from the body, and is the perfect remedy for post-workout muscles. Finally, check in at The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain and unwind after a memorable day.
What You’ll Need:
- Hybrid or Mountain Bike (bring your own or rent)
- Helmet (a must!)
- Water Bottle
- Appropriate layers – check the forecast
- Sunblock
- Sense of adventure!
Location
Blue Mountain Resort
Activity Central
190 Jozo Weider Blvd
The Blue Mountains
To Book:
Contact Blue Mountain Activities
1 (877) 445 0231 ext.60244
Check out their website for more booking details.
Dates:
May Long Weekend to
October, during gondola operating hours