A Guide to The Best Cities for Cyclists in Canada

You will be surprised to know that cycling is a popular hobby practiced in Canada. The government has also made sure to encourage this cycling infrastructure more in many parts of Canada. Seeing the support from the authorities, many best cities for cyclists in Canada are taking up the activity in a bid to stay fit. This is also a great initiative towards making a healthy environment in the nation. The Government of Canada has also made a huge investment to build a new bike lane, bridges, and trails. This path has been created keeping in mind the requirements of all the riders and their abilities.

In this blog, we will delve deeper into the best cities for cyclists in Canada.

Cycling is becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation across Canada as cities work to improve their cycling infrastructure toward safer and more accessible routes. Whether you want to use it for commuting, recreation, or fitness, cycling offers a sustainable and healthy alternative to driving. Many urban areas have introduced dedicated bike lanes, multi-use paths, and other safety features for this.

Cities in Canada are working towards reducing traffic congestion, lowering emissions, and creating a more active and healthier population by promoting cycling to the citizens. At the same time, there is still room for improvement. Compared to cycling-friendly cities in Europe, Canada is moving in the right direction by investing in cycling infrastructure to make urban environments safer and more welcoming for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Let’s explore the cities that are best for cycling in Canada and why investing in cycling is the need of the hour. 

List of The Best Cities For Cyclists in Canada

Below is the list of best cities for year-round cycling.

Victoria, British Columbia

If you are living in the state of British Columbia, then Victoria is one of the best cities to explore on your bike. Victoria is known to invite the highest number of commuters in the country because of its mild climate and flat terrain. Since there is a rise of cyclists in Canada, Victoria has contributed significantly to maintaining the thriving culture. Considering that Victoria has only assigned 41-kilometer bike lanes. The wider geographical district consists of somewhere over 775-kilometer lanes that have been stretched to the suburbs. The trails included are E & N rail trails, galloping trails and Lochside Regional Trail.

The different modal transports in Victoria along with regional moving buses consist of front racks for 2 bicycles.

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is the sole North American city that has secured its name under the list of top 20 Copenhagenize Index each year. It is considered to set an example for cycling practices. The city already consists of a 1000-kilometer path for cyclists and is in the process of expanding routes to make more protected bike lanes. The REV (a bike path) is the network that is working towards the goal of improving the life of cyclists in Montreal.  You will also spot riders riding on all kinds of bikes starting from commuter bikes to cargo bikes to fixies to city bikes.

The recent mayor of the city has also announced its commitment to improving the cycling network and also letting the REV expand its network to other parts of Montreal.

Vancouver, British Columbia

It is not only well-known for its famous mountain biking but also for investing in active travel. Growing as the best city for cycling in Canada, the government is also committed to the growth of cycling culture. Vancouver consists of about 400-kilometre bike lanes along with protection against motor traffic. Along with many other factors, the investment made led  Vancouver to secure the 19th rank under the 2020 Copenhagenize Index.

Whether you are planning to use the city bicycle scheme or your own bike, this place is a must for you to explore.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Even though Saskatoon stands as the smallest place in the list of best cities for cyclists in Canada. It is still leading in the direction of increasing the popularity of the activity. If you own a touring bike, then Saskatoon is a great option. Here, you will be avoiding restricted paved work surfaces and exploring the rugged landscape in Canada.

Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, has also been seen investing a lot in developing the cycling infrastructure department. The city was also awarded a gold medal because of its bicycle-friendly society in 2013, which has resulted in increasing the cycling network. At present, Ottawa has about 800-kilometre bike paths that are perfect for exploring the beauty of the city. If you do not own a bicycle, you can always rent one from the rental bike department.

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary has established itself as one of North America’s top cycling cities, ranking 21st out of over 1,100 cities. This recognition is attributed to its cycling infrastructure, which has over 1,000 kilometres of pathways and bikeways. The city’s network, including iconic routes like the Glenmore Dam pathway, offers a scenic and accessible option for commuters and recreational cyclists. Calgary’s success in promoting cycling stems from its efforts to create an inclusive and equitable environment. The city has prioritised connecting various neighbourhoods and making biking accessible to everyone, regardless of fitness level or background. Its easy access to recreational and commercial hubs further bolsters its appeal and likeability.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Cycling in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has grown in popularity as the city continues developing its cycling infrastructure. The city features a network of local street bikeways and quieter streets modified to improve cyclist safety. These include traffic calming measures, signage, and pavement markings to make the cycling experience safe for the citizens. Additionally, multi-use pathways such as the Halifax Urban Greenway and Barrington Greenway allow cyclists to navigate key areas of the city, separated from vehicular traffic. Halifax has also implemented separate bike lanes and cycling facilities on streets like South Park Street, contributing to a more cycling-friendly urban environment.

The city also supports cycling culture through various organisations, including the Halifax Cycling Coalition, which advocates for improved infrastructure and safety measures. The city regularly organises cycling events, such as “Critical Mass,” which raise awareness about cycling safety​.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown, located in Prince Edward Island, is a fantastic base for exploring the island on two wheels. The city provides easy access to the Confederation Trail, a scenic 400 km route spanning the island’s length. This well-maintained, flat trail, originally a railway line, offers an accessible cycling experience with beautiful views of farmlands, rolling hills, and coastal vistas. Ideal for beginners and casual riders, it provides gentle slopes and smooth pathways that make for an enjoyable ride.

In Charlottetown, you can easily rent a bike from local shops like MacQueen’s or Funwheel Rentals, catering to regular and electric bikes. For more adventurous cyclists, guided mountain biking tours around central PEI’s trails offer a thrilling experience. The city also has shorter scenic routes like the beautiful 6 km Riverside Trail, perfect for a relaxing ride by the water.

To ensure safety, Charlottetown enforces helmet laws, traffic rules for cyclists, and a “one-metre law” that requires drivers to maintain a safe distance from cyclists.

Toronto, Ontario

Cycling in Toronto has grown steadily over the years, with the city expanding its infrastructure to support many cyclists, especially in the downtown core. The cycling culture in Toronto saw its first boom in the 1970s when initiatives like the Beltline Trail were developed. In 1975, the city established the Toronto City Cycling Committee to promote cycling and safety. Since the early 2000s, the city has made significant efforts through plans like the Toronto Bike Plan and Cycling Network Plan to expand its cycling network, aiming to connect every cyclist within a five-minute ride of a bike route.

Toronto is considered a top city for cycling due to its expanding infrastructure and popular bike-sharing program. In 2023, over 19.6 km of new bikeways were added, and 16.2 km were upgraded, enhancing cycling safety and accessibility. The city’s Bike Share system is also booming, with 4.7 million trips already made by October 2023, expected to surpass the previous record of 5.7 million trips by year-end. Toronto ranks 16th among North American cities for cycling, with high marks for access to retail and commercial areas. However, there’s room for improvement in connecting to essential services and recreational hubs​.

Moncton, New Brunswick

Cycling in Moncton, New Brunswick, offers several trails and paths for casual and experienced cyclists. The city’s network includes approximately 79 km of park trails, which are well-maintained and accessible year-round. The Riverfront Trail offers scenic views along the Petitcodiac River, Mapleton Park and Centennial Park, which provide a mix of urban and nature trails. These interconnected paths make it easy for residents and visitors to explore the city by bike. Moncton has focused on improving cycling infrastructure by adding more bike lanes and separated paths, promoting safe cycling through clear trail etiquette, such as staying to the right and yielding to pedestrians. The city has also invested in making its trails more accessible for leisure and commuting cyclists, which is directly helping a growing cycling community. Whether for recreation or commuting, Moncton’s cycling network encourages active exploration.

St. John’s, Newfoundland

Cycling in St. John’s, Newfoundland has seen a growing focus on creating a safe and connected network to encourage more people to cycle. This amazing city launched the Bike St. John’s Master Plan in 2019, aimed at building a more inclusive cycling infrastructure that takes into account the unique topography of the city. The plan includes developing dedicated bike lanes and expanding shared-use paths that cater to cyclists of all ages and abilities. The major routes in the city include the Crosstown Shared-Use Path, which connects different parts of the city, and the challenging Cape Spear ride, offering cyclists a scenic but demanding route to the easternmost point of North America. Additionally, St. John’s integrates cycling with public transport by providing bike racks on Metrobus services​. With a commitment to enhancing its bike network, the city continues to promote cycling as a healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transport.

Tips to Make Your Cycling Experience Safe

Abide by the Traffic Rules

It is always an individual’s responsibility to keep in mind that whenever they travel through bicycles. It is mandatory to follow traffic rules. This includes halting at the stop signs and following the correct lane. A person riding a bike also gets an advantage of riding through the public transportation path that helps you to reach the destination on time.

Make a Spot on Road While Riding

It is very important for you to learn that it is always good if you travel in your lane and not fix the right spot while riding on the road.  It is advised for a cyclist to travel behind a car and not beside it as it is more convenient, easy, and secure.

Ride Your Bike with Safety

It goes without saying that basic safety requirements like owning a helmet, safety lights or reflectors are important. It is important for you to have a clearer vision to avoid the possibility of accidents. Always keep your focus on the road while riding. It is important for you to be alert whenever you are riding a cycle. Give hand signals whenever necessary. Never ride your cycle wearing headphones or an earphone, avoid receiving any kinds of calls when you are riding.

Watch for Parked Cars

Do not ride your bike at full speed, there are chances for you to accidentally hit yourself into the parked cars. When individuals become comfortable with their riding style; there are chances for them to start ignoring the little but the most important aspects of riding. One of which is looking out for parked cars, to avoid any kind of injury it is advised for you to always be alert while riding.

Never Pass on the Right Side

Sometimes it’s possible that the traffic is slow, and you still feel like moving and thereby overtake the cars from the right side. Don’t! That’s something that a rider should never do as other people traveling with you will never expect to overtake from the right-hand side.

Why is it Necessary to Invest in Cycling?

Investing in cycling infrastructure is essential for creating healthier, greener, and more liveable cities. Cycling is not only a sustainable mode of transport, reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions, but it also directly contributes to improving air quality. Encouraging more people to cycle can significantly reduce urban pollution and improve the environment. Studies show that every kilometre cycled delivers a net economic gain by lowering costs related to road maintenance and public health. In contrast, driving imposes financial burdens due to its environmental and infrastructure costs.

Beyond environmental benefits, cycling offers a major boost to public health. It promotes regular physical activity, prevents chronic diseases, improves mental well-being, and reduces healthcare expenses. Cities that invest in dedicated bike lanes see improved road safety, reducing the likelihood of traffic accidents and promoting a culture of inclusive transportation. Moreover, cycling-friendly cities often experience economic growth as cycling tourism flourishes and local businesses benefit from increased footfall​.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)