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Two wheels and endless possibilities await in Norfolk County, where cycling enthusiasts discover that Ontario’s Garden offers some of the province’s most rewarding riding experiences. From peaceful country roads winding past fertile farmland to dedicated trail networks that showcase the region’s natural beauty, Norfolk’s diverse cycling landscape caters to every rider’s preference and skill level—from leisurely family outings to adrenaline-pumping mountain bike adventures.
The county’s gentle topography and rural road network create an ideal environment for leisurely exploration and challenging rides alike. Cyclists can meander down quiet country lanes flanked by orchards and crop fields, where the rhythm of pedaling harmonizes with the agricultural heartbeat of the region. These scenic routes offer intimate glimpses into farming life, with opportunities to stop at roadside stands and connect directly with local producers along the way. Watch for Norfolk’s distinctive crops including ginseng, asparagus, sour cherries, seasonal pumpkin fields, and more – creating a patchwork quilt of colors across the landscape.
One of the crown jewels of Norfolk’s cycling infrastructure is the Waterford Heritage Trail. This 24-kilometer multi-purpose rail trail passes through forests, wetlands, fields and grasslands, following the right of way of railways that once saw up to 120 trains per day pass through Waterford.
The trail’s centerpiece is the spectacular Black Bridge, a century-old, 166-meter-long elevated railway bridge offering panoramic views of Waterford Ponds and the surrounding countryside. This elevated vantage point provides spectacular views of sunrises and sunsets over the various lakes in the area, where visitors might spot kayakers, canoeists, paddleboarders, and fishers enjoying the waterways below. View map.
The Norfolk Sunrise Trail is a 4-kilometer walking and cycling trail that runs through Simcoe, following the historical Lake Erie and Northern Railway line north to the 13th Concession of Townsend. Constructed in 2009 by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, this trail serves as the crucial missing link that connects Norfolk County’s extensive trail network.
The entire trail is paved from downtown’s Argyle Street to the north end of Simcoe’s Concession 13, making it accessible for road bikes and families. One of the trail’s most distinctive features is the Queensway Underpass where trail users can pass under the very busy Highway 3. For those preferring surface routes, an alternate path crosses the Lynn River at Argyle Street and follows through Simcoe’s renowned park system, reconnecting the main trail at the Queensway Underpass.
The journey through this trail is particularly scenic as it continues through the enchanting tree canopied section to Davis Street, passing through Wellington and Clifton Parks. This route showcases Simcoe’s beautiful urban park system while maintaining the peaceful, naturalized feeling of a rail trail. The trail connects seamlessly with both the Lynn Valley Trail heading south to Port Dover and the Waterford Heritage Trail heading north, making it a perfect hub for extended cycling adventures. View map.Â
The Lynn Valley Trail is located on the former CNR rail line which was established along the pioneer river trail in 1873 as the Lake Huron and Port Dover Railway. This 12-kilometer trail connects the business districts of Simcoe and Port Dover, offering one of Norfolk County’s most beloved cycling experiences.
One of the trail’s highlights is passing over a number of rivers and creeks on beautiful old, well-maintained wooden foot bridges. The LVTA has done extensive work on the rail-trail since its establishment in 1993. There are four original trestle bridges which have been reinforced and decking and railings built. Access points from which you can begin or end your ride are available every 1.5 to 2 km, making it perfect for shorter excursions or full-length adventures.
The trail terminates at Silver Lake in Port Dover, putting you within walking distance of Port Dover’s charming downtown, Lake Erie beaches, restaurants, and accommodations. The trail serves as a car-free corridor connecting two of Norfolk County’s most vibrant communities.
This rail trail system is particularly well-suited for cycling due to its flat terrain, offering extensive shade through wooded sections and passing by interesting agriculture including ginseng fields. The trail provides convenient connections to charming towns like Waterford and Simcoe, which offer refreshment stops and local amenities. View map.
The 13 kilometer Delhi Rail Trail offers another adventure, connecting the neighbouring towns of Simcoe and Delhi along the old CN Rail Line. Access points are available at multiple locations, as is parking, making it perfect for point-to-point rides or shorter family excursions. View map.
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Turkey Point offers over 85 kilometers of sandy and hardpacked cross-country singletrack trails managed by the Turkey Point Mountain Bike Club. These trails are nearly always dry due to the well-draining sandy soil that’s prevalent in Norfolk County, making them rideable most of the year when other Ontario trails are wet and muddy.
The terrain features mostly flat riding with some short, punchy climbs on intermediate to advanced trails. While most technical features are relatively tame, there are also challenging options for more advanced riders.
The Turkey Point area provides connections to various facilities including Long Point Eco Adventures and Marshview Patio (offering bike-wash stations, parking facilities, and a communal fire pit) and local wineries. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to combine outdoor adventure with culinary experiences. View map.
The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail offers spectacular lakefront cycling, stretching over 70 kilometers through Norfolk County from Crescent Bay in the east to Long Point and Houghton Centre in the west. Norfolk’s shoreline is dotted with provincial parks, conservation areas, three public beaches, and marshes that make it a naturalist’s haven.
The trail follows mostly quiet rural roads and passes through small towns and the larger Port Dover, with Long Point Provincial Park featuring marshland home to many bird species and long sandy beaches. View map.
Norfolk County is known for local foods, ensuring no cyclist will go hungry or thirsty when pairing cycling experiences with culinary adventures. The region features numerous bicycle-friendly businesses for dining, visiting, and accommodations.
For extended touring, the area offers camping at Long Point Provincial Park and Turkey Point Provincial Park, along with various accommodations in Port Dover and other communities.
Whether seeking a casual family ride through pastoral landscapes, an invigorating workout along waterfront paths, or technical mountain biking challenges, Norfolk County’s cycling opportunities showcase the region’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. Every pedal stroke through Ontario’s Garden reveals new vistas, seasonal changes, and the timeless appeal of exploring this natural paradise by bike.
Download the Visit Norfolk app at ExperienceNorfolk.ca to map out cycling routes, discover trail connections, and navigate your way through Ontario’s Garden on two wheels.
Looking for a truly unique Ontario destination?
Whether you’re looking for a day trip, a cycling journey, to immerse yourself in nature, or a beach vacation, Norfolk has it all. Uncover Ontario’s hidden gem with the Visit Norfolk app.
