The best gravel rides around Mississippi Mills
4.9
(8)
129
riders
10
rides
Gravel biking around Mississippi Mills offers a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The region features a mix of Canadian Shield terrain with challenging hills and flatter farmlands. Riders can expect rolling hills, limestone farmhouses, and picturesque back roads, alongside natural elements like forests, wetlands, meadows, lakes, and the Mississippi River. This varied topography provides engaging experiences for gravel cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around Mississippi Mills
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Cedar Lane – California Road loop from Carleton Place, a 64.9 miles (104.5 km) trail that takes 8 hours 48 minutes to complete, traversing varied terrain including rolling hills and farmlands.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Double Track Forest Road – Cedar Lane loop from Carleton Place, a difficult 54.9 miles (88.4 km) path. This route winds through forested sections, offering a challenging ride.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Clayton Lake Dam – California Road loop from Clayton, a 40.9 miles (65.9 km) trail leading through areas with water features and open landscapes, often completed in about 4 hours 48 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Mississippi Mills is defined by rolling hills, limestone farmhouses, and river views. The network offers options for moderate to difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Mississippi Mills are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 100 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Mississippi Mills's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
4.7
(6)
35
riders
44.2km
03:15
230m
230m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
65.9km
04:48
360m
360m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
27
riders
88.4km
05:42
440m
440m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
31.6km
02:01
120m
120m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
105km
07:24
530m
530m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Mississippi Mills
Tips from the Community
Carleton Place is a small riverside town in the Ottawa Valley, set along the Mississippi River and connected by several easy pathways, including access to the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail. The town has a relaxed, walkable centre with parks, river views, and quick links to nearby green spaces. It’s a handy starting point or stopover for exploring this stretch of eastern Ontario.
0
0
The Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail follows a long, converted rail corridor through small towns, farmland, forests, and riverside stretches between Smiths Falls, Renfrew, and Mattawa. The route is wide and mostly flat, making it great for walking, running, or cycling, with long open sections and quieter wooded stretches. Expect steady views of rural Ontario, occasional river crossings, and easy access points in the communities along the way. It’s a simple, scenic way to explore the Ottawa Valley at a relaxed pace.
0
0
Nice if short piece of double track. Nothing too bad -- a few rocks/logs, some sand in places, a bit of mud, puddles in low-lying ruts. I wouldn't think you would want less than 32s. It runs downhill South to North (Old Perth to Tatlock).
0
0
Highly recommend. During my summer ride, road was completely dry. I didn't pass anyone along the way but could be busy on weekends with ATV guys.
0
0
Consider good tires, but 700 x 32C should be good enough. You don't need a gravel bike for this route
0
0
California Road is a legendary local gravel riding marvel. About 6.5km long, fairly flat and rnning mostly through forest, it's an unmaintained dirt road, that can be somewhat muddy in places, some parts of the year. Features several crown land camp opportunities along it or nearby.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Mississippi Mills?
Gravel biking in Mississippi Mills offers a diverse landscape. You'll encounter everything from challenging hills in the Canadian Shield to flatter farmlands. The routes feature rolling hills, picturesque back roads, and natural elements like forests, wetlands, meadows, lakes, and rivers, often with views of the Mississippi River.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Mississippi Mills?
While many routes are moderate to difficult, the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail, a converted rail corridor, offers a wide and mostly flat path. This trail is suitable for families and passes through small towns, farmland, and forests, including scenic riverside stretches.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I might see along the gravel trails?
You can explore several interesting spots. The historic town of Almonte offers limestone mill buildings. Pakenham is known for its quaint village atmosphere and the picturesque Five Arch Stone Bridge. The Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail: Carleton Place to Almonte is also a significant feature. The Mill of Kintail Conservation Area, a starting point for some routes, is a natural and historical site.
Are there any loop routes for gravel biking in the area?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in Mississippi Mills are designed as loops. For example, the Almonte Textile Museum – Cedar Lane loop from Almonte and the Clayton Lake Dam – California Road loop from Clayton are popular circular options.
Where can I find refreshments or a place to rest along the trails?
The village of Pakenham offers places for refreshments. The Clayton General Store, located on the Naismith Loop, is a good spot for a cool drink and even features an extensive used book selection. Blakeney also has a quiet picnic park by the rapids, ideal for a rest stop.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Mississippi Mills?
The region is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring can bring challenges like flooded areas or ATV trail conditions on some unmaintained roads, making it suitable for more adventurous riders. Generally, late spring, summer, and fall offer excellent conditions to enjoy the varied landscapes.
Are there any advanced or challenging gravel routes available?
Yes, Mississippi Mills offers several challenging routes. The Double Track Forest Road – Cedar Lane loop from Carleton Place is a difficult 88.4 km path winding through forested sections. Some unmaintained roads, especially in spring, can also present challenging conditions for experienced gravel riders.
How many gravel bike trails are available in Mississippi Mills?
There are 10 gravel bike trails available in Mississippi Mills, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Mississippi Mills?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills and farmlands to forested sections, and the picturesque scenery including limestone farmhouses and river views.
Are there any specific routes that feature river views?
Yes, the Mississippi River is a significant feature of the region, and many routes follow its course, offering scenic river views. The Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail also includes riverside stretches.
What are the options for parking at gravel trailheads in Mississippi Mills?
Many routes start from towns like Almonte, Carleton Place, or Clayton, where public parking is generally available. The Mill of Kintail Conservation Area is also a known starting point for routes like the Naismith Loop, and typically offers parking facilities.
Are there any long-distance gravel routes in Mississippi Mills?
For those seeking longer rides, the Cedar Lane – California Road loop from Carleton Place is a substantial 104.5 km trail. Another option is the Double Track Forest Road – Cedar Lane loop from Carleton Place, which covers 88.4 km.
Most popular attractions around Mississippi Mills
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
