Doctor telling you to get more exercise?
Maybe it's time to try out Ontario’s newest bike path; the Voyageur Cycling Route.
The Voyageur Cycling Route is a major cycling tourism experience that will span over 630-kilometers from Sudbury to Ottawa says Jennifer McCourt, Executive Director of Discovery Routes Trails Organization.
The trail follows the path of the Voyageurs along four heritage waterways and shares alignment with the Trans Canada Trail at either end.
The western extent from Hagar to Sturgeon Falls is the first section of the route to be considered officially ready to ride with wayfinding signs, route maps and bike repair stands in Sturgeon Falls, Lavigne, Noëlville and St. Charles.
On June 3, 2018, Discovery Routes Trails Organization will join cyclists participating in the West Nipissing Cycle for Charity for an inaugural ride along the new sections.
The cycling route traces a quiet countryside along the western arm of Lake Nipissing that riders in the annual West Nipissing Cycle for Charity discovered some years ago.
“The Voyageur Cycling Route offers an experience that attracts an adventurous spirit,” said McCourt,
“The rugged and natural beauty of northern Ontario sets the Voyageur Cycling Route apart from routes in more urbanized parts of the province. Over 150 cyclists will share the adventure this year during the June 3rd ride as word of this spectacular route begins to spread."
Cycling is experiencing an explosion in popularity across North America.
"Communities in Northern Ontario are just beginning to understand the opportunities that the development of cycling networks like the Voyageur Cycling Route present both for local residents as well as in their attraction to visitors," according to a news release.
"Research into the industry shows that cycle tourists spend more and stay longer creating an impact felt more greatly in rural and northern communities. Events like the West Nipissing Cycle for Charity showcase an area and encourage cyclists to return and explore an area further."
Dan and Cynthia Roveda together with Kevin Stevens have been organizing the charity ride since 2014 and have seen firsthand the impact that cycling has made in Sturgeon Falls.
“In its first couple of years, the event attracted mostly local riders. We are now hosting riders from all over the province and from as far away as Quebec,” says Dan. “We also see more of our neighbours riding through town getting ready for the big ride or simply exploring the area on their bicycle.” There is still time to register for the ride on June 3 at www.westnipissingcycleforcharity.com.
