Outdoors
Niagara River Recreation Trail Bike Ride
You ride the paved path south beside the Niagara Parkway and the Niagara River from Fort George, past McFarland House and vineyards, to Queenston at the foot of the Niagara Escarpment below Brock's Monument. This is the northern end of the 56 km trail to Fort Erie, and more than 100 monuments and plaques mark historic spots along it.
- Where
- Ontario, Canada
The route
Fort George (Niagara-on-the-Lake) to Queenston.
Start at the Fort George staging area on Queen's Parade in Niagara-on-the-Lake; there is also parking at McFarland House and on Ricardo Street and Nelson Street. Zoom Leisure Bikes in Niagara-on-the-Lake rents bikes and runs tours.
When to go
The trail is listed as open all year but is not maintained in winter, so spring to autumn is the usual riding season.
Before you go
- There are washrooms at Fort George and at Brock's Monument.
- Turn round in Queenston, or climb to Queenston Heights for the view from Brock's Monument if you want a harder finish.
- Some stretches use side roads, so expect to share with cars in places.
What to bring
- Helmet
- Spare tube, tyre levers and a pump
- Water and snacks
- Front and rear lights
- A layer for descents and stops
Getting ready for it
Time in the saddle matters more than speed.
If you have not ridden for a while, do two or three rides of an hour or two first so your legs and your seat are used to it.
Staying safe
- The climb up the Niagara Escarpment to Queenston Heights is long and steep with turns; control your speed on the way back down.
- Wear bright clothing and use lights wherever there is traffic.
- Check your brakes and tyres before you leave.
Route details checked September 30, 2026 against niagaraparks.com, ontariotrails.on.ca, waterfronttrail.org, waterfronttrail.org, canadatrails.ca, bikeitorhikeit.org and visiting-niagara-falls.com. Rules and closures change, so check before you go.
