Ottawa Multi-day Bike Tour

Cycling Ottawa is a big treat! This region has transformed itself into one of the premier bike destinations in North America. 

Discover the outstanding biking on some of the over 600 kilometres of scenic, car-free, and paved trails. 

Ride the pathways that run along the attractive waterways, including the historic Rideau Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the rustic Rideau River, the mighty Ottawa river, and the colourful Gatineau River. 

Get a taste of history, nature and cuisine by visiting historical sites, museums, gorgeous parks, and great restaurants. 

You will bike on one of our comfortable, top-quality bikes, or you can opt for an electric bike.

Available as a fully-guided adventure, self-guided adventure, or customized private itinerary.

Day 1.

You arrive in Ottawa. Check into your downtown hotel and unpack. 

Stroll around the very walkable historic downtown Ottawa. 

Walk across the Corktown pedestrian bridge to enjoy fabulous views of the Rideau Canal and the Chateau Laurier. 

Visit the Parliament buildings, the Senate building in the renovated old railway station, or Ottawa’s outstanding outdoor art such as Maman, the giant photogenic spider in front of Canada’s National Art Gallery. 

Enjoy dinner in Ottawa’s iconic neighbourhoods such as the ByWard Market, the Glebe, Hintonburg, or Westboro. 

Be entertained at a nightly summer light show on Parliament Hill and get ready for three days of fun and adventure!

Day 2. 

A city in the making: Rideau Canal East- Rideau River Loop- Approximately 35-40 km 

Start your tour officially with an easy flat ride along Ottawa’s historic and UNESCO-recognized Rideau Canal. 

Along the way, stop and watch the boats pass by and see the locks in operation at the Rideau locks. 

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Hog’s Back Falls and cycle through Vincent Massey Park’s green space. 

Stop for a gelato treat at Ottawa’s award-winning gelato shop in Old Ottawa South. 

Head north along the Rideau River to check out east of downtown.  

Admire the elegant houses in New Edinburgh and the Governor General’s historic home: Rideau Hall. Check out 24 Sussex, the Prime Minister’s official residence. 

Enjoy a beer with a view at one of Ottawa’s many waterfront taverns. 

Finish the day with a short ride through the lower town/ByWard Market area and pick up some artisanal treats.

Rest and finish the day with dinner.  We can provide you with restaurant recommendations.

Highlights: Rideau Canal East, Corktown Bridge, University of Ottawa, Old Ottawa South, Carleton University, Hog’s Back Falls, Vincent Massey Park (Picnic Lunch), New Edinburgh, Rideau Hall, Rockcliffe Park, Tavern on the Falls, Rideau Falls, ByWard Market

Day 3.

The city expands: Rideau Canal West- Experimental Farm – Ottawa River Loop- Approximately 30-35 km 

This day brings you to the west side of downtown, where the city started to expand after the canal was completed. 

Cycle on the west side of the famous Rideau Canal Pathway, visit historic and exciting new developments and trendy neighbourhoods such as the Glebe, Little Italy, and Hintonburg. Enjoy a nice cup of coffee in one of Ottawa‘s independent coffee shops. 

Check out the intriguing stone sculptures in the Ottawa River and enjoy a scenic detour ride in the province of Quebec. 

Bike back to Ontario, stop by the magnificent Chaudière Falls and learn about the Algonquin nation and the region’s history. 

Stop by the Canadian Museum of War and learn about the human experience of war.  

Cycle up to Parliament Hill along the Ottawa River to finish your day. Enjoy your well-deserved rest!

Highlights: Rideau Canal West, Lansdowne Park/Glebe, Dow’s Lake, Little Italy, Arboretum, Experimental Farm, Hintonburg, Remic Rapids, Ottawa River Pathway, War Museum, Chaudière Falls, and Parliament Hill

Day 4.

French Canada- Approximately 18 KM

Start the day with a short ride to the province of Quebec. 

Cross the scenic 120-year-old Alexandra Bridge with its stunning views of “la belle province.” 

Stop at the Canadian Museum of History to admire the architecture and collections and learn about Canada’s past. 

Chill out at the beautiful Lac Leamy beach areas! Bring your swimsuit in case you want to swim or sunbathe.

Alternatively, you can visit another museum (such as the National War Museum) or head to Gatineau Park and hike its many trails. If you decide to do so, we will provide trail suggestions and directions.

Highlights: Voyageur Pathway, Alexandria Bridge, Lac Leamy, Museum of History

Inclusions:

• 3 nights accommodation (double occupancy)
• 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, water, snack
• Local guides (for the guided option)
• A ticket to a museum of your choice
• Fully supported with road assistance 

Exclusions:

• Meals not mentioned above
• Regular or electric bike rental ($50 for regular bike and $110 for electric bike rentals)
• Transportation to the destination
• Parking fee at the hotel
• 13% HST tax and local taxes Tip/gratitude

The tours start and end at 65 Sparks St.

Book with confidence! You will be fully refunded if you give us 10 days’ notice. There will be no refunds for any cancellations within 10 days prior to the activity start date and time. If the reservation must be cancelled due to bad weather, we fully refund our clients. 

Route expectations – The National Capital Region is situated in the Ottawa Valley. The rides are flat, except for the ascent and descent to cross some bridges. The area is located at about 70 metres above sea level. The vast majority of your rides are on Ottawa-Gatineau’s expansive multi-use pathways, away from motorized traffic.

Minimum and maximum numbers:
8+ guests 

All multi-day tours are booked through our booking partner and licensed TICO agent:

OK Cycle and Adventure Tours
666 Kirkwood Avenue – Suite B102, Ottawa, ON K1Z5X9
Toll-free 1-888-621-6818 or Local 613-702-5350
TICO Ontario Registration #50022848

What is your cancellation policy?
You will be fully refunded if you give us 60 days notice. There will be no refunds for any cancellations within 60 days prior to the activity start date and time.

Are there any hills?
Ottawa is a flat city, so most of the ride will be on flat bike paths. There might be a few inclines that can be easily managed when riding our multi-geared quality bikes.

What if it rains?
Your ride will continue in light rain. We supply you with rain ponchos. 

In case of heavy rain or storm forecast, your trip will be cancelled — the final call will be made two hours before the start time of your tour, and we’ll contact you by phone and email. 

If your tour is cancelled due to the weather, you will be fully refunded or can choose to keep your credit for an alternative date or time.

Is biking in Ottawa safe?  
Ottawa is an extremely bike-friendly city. Almost all of your ride will be on Ottawa’s well-maintained cycle paths. In a few exceptions, we will be riding on backroads in neighbourhoods or crossing streets with traffic lights. As well, we start all our tours with a safety briefing and proper fitting for your bike and safety helmet.

Can I bring my own bicycle?
Yes. Please ensure that your bicycle is in good working condition and you have spare parts (e.g., proper tube size) in case.

Have more questions? Visit our detailed FAQs page or contact us!