The best traffic-free bike rides in Parc National De La Mauricie

Parc National De La Mauricie offers a selection of 6 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes vary in length and difficulty, providing options for different experience levels.

The routes in Parc National De La Mauricie feature a varied topography, including hills and slopes as they wind through the Laurentian Mountains. While some sections of the Parkway have been updated with new asphalt and wider shoulders, many routes will involve gravel sections, suitable for touring, hybrid, or mountain bikes. Expect a mix of ascents and descents that make for engaging cycling.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are options suitable for families. For instance, the Viewpoint loop from Camping Wapizagonke is a moderate 11 km route that allows for a shorter, more manageable ride. The park also features easier gravel loops like the Vallerand trail (2.4 km) and Trail #11 (4 km) which are great for a relaxed family outing.

The park is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you can encounter numerous lakes such as Lac Wapizagonke and Lac du Pimbina. Scenic viewpoints like Le Passage Lookout and Île-aux-Pins Lookout offer breathtaking panoramas of the park's expansive wilderness. You might also discover beautiful waterfalls, such as Waterfall in Mauricie National Park or Les Cascades, which are popular for wading and picnics.

Convenient parking is available at several key locations within the park. Popular starting points with amenities include the Esker Parking Lot and the Rivière à la Pêche Service Centre Parking Lot. For routes like the Lac Olscamp – Anse à Trudel loop, you can find parking directly at the designated Car Parking area.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the 44 km Back on the road! loop from Camping Wapizagonke or the 32.5 km Lac Boyer – Lac Modène loop from Parc récréoforestier St-Mathieu offer significant elevation gains and longer distances. These routes provide a rewarding experience with diverse terrain and scenic views.

The best time for touring cycling in Parc National De La Mauricie is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and all trails are accessible. The fall foliage offers particularly stunning views, making it a popular time for cyclists.

Yes, the park provides rental services for various outdoor gear, which may include bicycles. It's advisable to check directly with the park's visitor centers or official website for the most current information on bicycle rental availability and types, including fatbikes and potentially electric bikes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, immersive experience of cycling through the park's extensive forests and along its numerous lakes, away from vehicle traffic. The well-maintained routes and the stunning viewpoints are frequently highlighted as major attractions.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Parc National De La Mauricie are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Viewpoint loop from Camping Wapizagonke and the Lac Olscamp – Anse à Trudel loop from Car Parking, which are convenient for day trips.

Yes, electric bikes with pedal assist are permitted on all cycling trails within Parc National De La Mauricie. This makes the park's diverse terrain more accessible to a wider range of cyclists, allowing more visitors to enjoy the scenic routes.