Ottawa to Carleton Place and Smith Falls

This route combines some segments of the Trans Canada Trail to provide a very straight gravel experience. This is a great ride for anyone getting started with long distance gravel, since it avoids roads. It's built on previous rail roads. It can get a bit dull at times since it's so straight, so make sure to bring a podcast, some suncreen, and maybe a gatorade!

🍦 I highly recommend stopping for some ice cream in Stittsvile at Jo-Jo's Creameria (no association, but really good ice cream!)

The map provided is 85 km total, one way. The idea is to mix and match however you want. You can get your first century ride going to CP and back, or make a significant step towards it by riding from CP to Smith Falls.

Long distance enthusiasts: If you want a weekend adventure, you can Bikepack to the Opinicon, stay at Chaffey's Lock, and ride back to Ottawa through Merrickville next day.

TCT Segments:

• Ottawa to Carleton Place: 55km one way
  • Capital Pathway
  • Ottawa Carleton Trailway
  • Carleton Place Trailway
• Carleton Place to Smith Falls: 29km one way
  • Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail

NOTE: Many of the pictures below are part of a longer trip, continuing on the Cataraqui Trail. Sorry about that!

Thanks to Danny Brisson for suggesting this route!