The 9 best paths to bike in Montreal this fall (PHOTOS)

Sep 29 2017, 3:23 pm

We can all agree that biking in Montreal is objectively non-advisable in winter. Sadly, we’re somehow almost there.

All the more reason to saddle up and take advantage of Montreal’s fantastic bike paths while fall is still here. That pleasant autumn air, long golden hours, and flashing auburn leaves – not a bad way to spend a day on a bike.

Here are the 9 best paths to bike in Montreal this fall.

South Shore Bike Path

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Do some island-hopping on your way to the South Shore with pit stops on St. Helen’s Island and Notre Dame Island. This 19-kilometre (one way) path is almost exclusively waterfront and offers fantastic views of downtown across the river. Hop off for some food and drinks in Saint-Lambert or Brossard.

Westmount to Outremont

Not a far distance by any means, this one is for the leisure riders. Meander through Montreal’s two most affluent neighbourhoods with a detour through Mont Royal, where you can slow down the pace to bask in the glory of the city’s most magical urban green space.

Berges Ouest Cycle Path

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Winding through Lachine, Verdun, and LaSalle, the Berges Ouest Cycle Path boasts some pristine waterfront along the St. Lawrence and Lachine Canal. It’s considered by many to be Montreal’s most scenic bike path and is car-free from start to finish. Bonus: it’s a loop, which means there’s something new to see throughout your journey.

Parc Angrignon

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A visit to Parc Angrignon is never a bad idea, which is especially true if you’re on a bike. Take your time rolling through the park’s lush landscape, which includes over 20,000 trees and a super serene pond where you can step off and enjoy the lunch you so wisely prepared before heading out.

Parc René-Lévesque

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Peninsulas always make for a great bike tour, and Parc René-Lévesque is no exception. Flanked on both sides by the St. Lawrence River, it features plenty of art and history to observe along the path. The park’s lanterns make it a suitable option for night rides.

De Maisonneuve Boulevard Bike Path

The most urban bike path on our list, de Maisonneuve Boulevard Bike Path gives you a taste of downtown on two wheels. It’s technically not the longest, but you’ll want to set aside some time for this one –the urge to stop every few blocks for some shopping, dining or a cheeky drink is strong.

West Island Loop

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Head to the very tip of the West Island and cover more than 30 kilometres of paths, trails, and road along the water and through Parc-agricole du Bois-de-la-Roche. We highly recommend a detour through the 610-acre Morgan Arboretum forest reserve.

Parc Jean-Drapeau Bike Path

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Parc Jean-Drapeau is a worthy mention on a list about literally anything, and cycling is no exception. Race along the Gilles-Villeneuve Circuit or take it down a notch by wheeling along the park’s many nature trails. Take in unparalleled views of downtown and make a day of it by packing a picnic.

Nun’s Island/Lachine Canal

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The Lachine Canal’s multipurpose path is regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful urban circuits and offers a bit of everything: riverside leisure, skyline views, and people watching. If you’re starting downtown (Atwater Market), we suggest spending a bit of extra time on Nun’s Island by meandering south to its green side instead before crossing to the other side of the St. Lawrence.

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