As the world’s second-largest country, it’s fair to say that Canada has ample off-roading areas that are enjoyed by many.
With millions of acres making up the country, where do you even start?! Not all areas are accessible or available to ride so we’ve gone ahead and done the research for you. Check out the five best off-roading trails in Canada below and start planning your adventure now!
Concession Lake, Ontario
This 20.47-km trail is just under three hours from Toronto. It’s a relatively open trail that offers a variety of terrain, including swampy areas and mud crossings, rock crawling, and tight trees. There are definitely some obstacles to navigate, and some elevation changes that off-road enthusiasts sure seem to enjoy. This riding offers some open areas to rest and look around as well. For more information, click HERE.
Where to stay: After a long day of riding, riders can rest their heads at the Comfort Hotel & Suites in Peterborough and enjoy dinner right at the hotel at the on-site Kelsey’s.
Chipmunk Creek to Mt. Cheam Trailhead, British Columbia
Located near the Fraser Valley, this trail offers 29.1 km of fun riding through epic B.C. backcountry. Terrain is pretty rugged, consisting of steep inclines, roots, rocks and, in some areas, aluminum bridges over water crossings and ravines. As a result, these trails aren’t recommended for beginners and are rated as moderate and up. However, keep in mind that there are some novice trails available. This riding area is accessible May-October and offers beautiful views of the Chilliwack River and Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park. There are plenty of singletrack trails available, with fewer options for ATVs given the narrow trails. For maps and more information, visit the BCORMA website.
Where to stay: Enjoy a free, hot breakfast and ample free parking at the Comfort Inn in Chilliwack.
Thetford Mines, Quebec
The Thetford Mines area is a popular off-road riding area in Quebec, with a number of different loops and trails accessible all season long. Summers are incredibly popular with off-roaders since the terrain is a combination of rocky, challenging hills with scenic views. Winter months are, of course, more suited to snowmobiles than 4x4s, with the occasional heavy snow the region can receive. A number of trails and circuits are available to choose from, both from the Centre Du Quebec and also the Chaudière Appalaches regions, where loops range from 80-435 km. For maps and trail conditions, visit: https://chaudiereappalaches.com or http://www.quadamiante.com
Where to stay: Quality Suites in Drummondville, a recipient of a 2019 Gold Guest Satisfaction Award in recognition of their high standards of service!
North Star Trail, Manitoba
Riding the North Star trail is a great way to check out the Belair Provincial Forest. This 25-km trail is an old logging road that is multi-use and multi-season. Trails are generally sandy and dry but can be rocky so be sure to check the weather conditions before you head out. The trail is a bit rough and should take up to two hours to complete start to finish.
Where to stay: Located within an hour from this ride spot is the Comfort Inn South, Winnipeg, another 2019 Gold Guest Satisfaction Award recipient, which features free hot breakfast and plenty of parking for trucks and trailers.
Top of the World Trail at McLean Creek, Alberta
The McLean Creek riding area is a 220 square-kilometer area that is sure to impress any off-roader with its variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Top of the World Trail is a shorter trail but certainly holds its own with steep climbs and a significant drop that’s sure to test your off-road skills and rock crawling abilities. Located in the McLean Creek Public Land Use Zone, the Top of the World trail can be slick at times, with many obstacles including rocks and tree stumps. For maps and more information, click HERE.
Where to stay: At the end of the day, soak in the hot tub or indoor pool at the Comfort Inn & Suites Airport South in Calgary.