Perfect Fall Rides: Three Top Cycling Adventures in Kawarthas Northumberland
There’s something special about cycling in Kawarthas Northumberland in the fall. Crisp mornings, colourful forests, quiet country roads, and welcoming small towns make autumn one of the best seasons to explore on two wheels. Whether you’re chasing a challenging road ride, looking for a leisurely rail trail to ride with the family, or craving flowy singletrack beneath a canopy of brilliant maple leaves, you’ll find a ride that’s worth the trip.
Here are three unforgettable rides to experience this autumn.
Best for: Road cyclists
Distance: 74 km loop
Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
If your perfect ride includes quiet country roads, rolling hills, and endless scenic views, the Rice Lake Ramble belongs on your fall cycling list. Beginning in historic downtown Cobourg, this 74 km loop circles north toward Rice Lake before returning through beautiful Northumberland countryside. The route is well known among Ontario cyclists for its varied terrain, rewarding climbs, and spectacular views of the lake and surrounding farmland.
Park in one of the municipal lots in downtown Cobourg and start your day with a coffee from one of the local cafés before heading out. Along the route, Gore’s Landing makes an ideal place to stop, stretch your legs, and enjoy lakeside views from the dock and gazebo.
After your ride, reward yourself back in downtown Cobourg with a well-earned meal at the Craft Food House, craft beer at Jack’s Barrel House, or a sweet treat at Vdoma Bakery and Cafe or the Black Cat while exploring the town’s vibrant waterfront and historic main street.
Best for: Recreational riders and families
Distance: Approximately 48 km return
Difficulty: Easy
Looking for a relaxed ride with incredible scenery? This section of the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail offers one of the region’s most enjoyable rail trail experiences.
Start your ride in downtown Lindsay, where you’ll find plenty of parking and easy trail access. The crushed limestone trail follows a former railway corridor, creating a smooth, mostly flat ride that’s ideal for hybrid bikes, gravel bikes, and recreational cyclists.
Ride east toward Omemee, where you can stop for coffee or baked treat at Sprinkles and Things, before continuing through peaceful forests dressed in brilliant autumn colours. The highlight is the impressive Doube’s Trestle Bridge, offering panoramic views over the valley below and one of the most photogenic spots along the trail.
After soaking in the views, simply retrace your route back to Lindsay, enjoying a completely different perspective on the return ride. Our top choice for your post-ride meal or drink is the Pie Eyed Monk on Cambridge Street, and for your treat and caffeine fix check out the Kindred Coffee Bar.
Best for: Mountain bikers
Distance: Choose your own adventure (5–20+ km)
Difficulty: Beginner to Advanced
For riders who love singletrack, the trails in Millbrook deliver fun and exciting mountain biking, especially when the hardwood forest bursts into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold.
Maintained by the dedicated volunteers of Millbrook MTB, the trail network offers something for nearly every rider. Intermediate and advanced riders will love popular descents like Trench Town and Back Stage Pass, featuring flowing berms, playful rollers, small rock gardens, and optional jumps.
With a well-thought-out network of interconnected trails, you can tailor your ride to your energy level, whether you’re squeezing in a quick lap or spending the afternoon exploring the network beneath the spectacular fall canopy.
When the ride is over, head into downtown Millbrook for well-deserved stop at The Peddler Bistro for coffee or lunch, or celebrate a great day on the trails with a locally crafted beer at Dusk ’til Dawn Brewing Company.
This fall, grab your bike and come experience some of Ontario’s most beautiful cycling routes in Kawarthas Northumberland.
