When We Like to Ride This

Spring through fall, possibly winter.

Terrain & Riding

The ride starts at the Visitor Center in St. Helens. It rolls out along a paved road giving views of Georges Bay. This road has a bit of traffic, so roll single file with caution (especially during silly season).

At mile 5 (Km 8) you take a sharp right onto a paved road that steeply climbs for a short distance. Now, you’ll wander the coast on dirt roads that bring you to viewpoints and finally take you through beachy neighborhoods and by a whale look out area. The route cuts inland to skirt around Grants lagoon, then parallels the coast along the Bay of Fires conservation area. The further you get along the coast, the quieter the road becomes until you reach “The Gardens”.

When the road dead-ends, take the hike out to see more of the red rocks. It doesn’t look like much but do the hike!

Back on the bikes, make a u-turn and hug the coast for a short distance getting a dramatically different view.

At mile 24 (Km 39) you turn inland, cutting through a stunning nature preserve that has a good steady climb (undulating with an upward trend). You then bump into a larger gravel road which evolves into paved road where the scenery turns into farmland.

Note, the routing of this ride may appear a bit peculiar, but we have documented this route in such a way to give you the best riding experience and the best viewing experience. Some of the most spectacular sights of the Bay of Fires occurs in the beginning of the ride. Take the the time to get off the bike and see the views. At The Gardens, mile 13 (Km 21), the northern most point of the ride there are also some great sights. Riding the route a second or third time we would possibly eliminate several of the dogleg excursions, but we would keep the bubble from mile 5 to 14 (Km 8 to 23). The sights are just too spectacular to miss!

Also, if you are an inlander, you might check the winds before you go. They can be brisk and brutal when coming across your front wheel.

The Start

At St Helens Visitor Center. Parking available. Flush toilets. Note: the parking behind the Visitor Center has no time limit.

Food & Water

• None

Route Notes

1. We recommend a red blinky light with rear looking radar detector (i.e. Garmin Varia)

Have you ridden this route? Got a question? Join the discussion!