After the most wintery of winters anyone in central Ontario can recall for a very long time, riders will be doubly-motivated to get out on theirs bikes once the sand blows off the roads and the ground in the bush dries up to reveal the epic trails beneath. While we wait for mounds(!) of snow to melt in March, it’s a great time to make some plans for unforgettable touring, training and trekking in Ontario’s cottage country this spring and summer.

For many reasons, Muskoka, Parry Sound and nearby Almaguin Highlands offer the very best riding in the province, whether on or off-road is your jam. At the top of the list of reasons why is the unforgettable scenery that you won’t find anywhere else in Ontario.

For touring cyclists, meandering loops across granite outcrops and past beautiful forests also circle sparkling lakes and rivers everywhere you turn. Gradients range from endless flats to challenging climbs which, though not mountainous, can get the heart beat up in no time. (The subsequent twisting descents are a great release; you’ll be hard-pressed not to feel exhilarated by the bottom.) The spring season launches with the long-standing Spin The Lakes Tour, which sees riders tour different loops from 20km to 180km in May. Later in summer, the Northern Pass ride is becoming just as popular, taking cyclists of all levels on different routes throughout Muskoka.

The region has also become a hotspot for mountain and fat biking in Ontario, with the Muskoka Off Road Cycling Association and the Huntsville Mountain Bike Association volunteers leading the way in trail development (including the newest at Deerhurst Resort). Huntsville’s trails out of Hidden Valley Highlands Ski Area offer some of the best views around, and the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre trails are a labour of love – and creativity – for the riders from that town.

In west Parry Sound, volunteers with Get Outdoors Parry Sound and at the Georgian Nordic Outdoor Activity Centre nurture trails and events to suit all types of riders, and this location just outside of town is particularly popular for family outings.

Gravel is the rising star in the global cycling world, and riders in the Almaguin Highlands are all in on the trend. Check with the experts at Missing Link Adventure Tours to sign up for one of their Gravel Camps to master the skills for riding this type of terrain, and visit Explore Almaguin for more info on riding in the area.

Something new to try this spring and summer for those seeking a little more adventure is cycling in Canada’s old provincial park. Algonquin Park has neat trails that are perfect for mountain and fat bikers looking for a unique daytrip or an away-from-camp excursion, including a legendary route on an old railway bed.

Bike shops abound across the region, and they’re where you can get great rentals and awesome advice. Ask about their group rides too, if you’re looking for a way to learn more about the region before heading out on your own.

Also at the top of the list of what makes riding in the region so wonderful? The many bike-friendly establishments that offer amazing pit stops!  From scenic patios to bakeries to coffee houses, break up your ride, enjoy a bite to eat, and fuel up for the next stage. The region is recognized globally as one of the most popular vacation destinations in Canada, so you can be sure to find welcoming accommodations as well.

While the snow finally melts, start planning your exceptional spring cycling getaway to Ontario’s cottage country. Hit the roads and trails before the busy summer season, and discover your favourite places to ride for endless visits to the region over the months to come.

For more information on cycling in Parry Sound, Muskoka, Almaguin and Algonquin Park, and to check out over 200 riding routes, visit BikeCottageCountry.ca.

To plan your stay, visit GreatCanadianWilderness.com.