Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Off-Road Trails in Ontario
Since there are so many trails, we decided to share some of our favourite places—practically in our backyard! Ranging from the northeast to the southeast and all the places in between, there are hundreds of kilometres of trails just waiting to be explored.
Hastings Heritage Trail
This four-season system has several parking lots and entries to the 156-kilometre trail, so you have plenty of starting points to choose from. Along with great riding, there are also many points of interest to visit, like waterfalls and even a ghost town. It makes the Hastings Heritage Trail an excellent trail for a family outing, whether you are driving the kids or they can ride on their own.
Cochrane ATV Trails
These trails are considered an ATVers paradise! Old and unused roads let you ride deep into the northeastern Ontario countryside, where wildlife wanders around, and the landscape is stunning. You won’t just be limited to off-roading; Cochrane allows ATVing on town streets, so you can stop for snacks and drinks before hitting the trailhead.
JOIN OUR COMMUNITY!
Since there are so many trails, we decided to share some of our favourite places—practically in our backyard! Ranging from the northeast to the southeast and all the places in between, there are hundreds of kilometres of trails just waiting to be explored.
Hastings Heritage Trail
This four-season system has several parking lots and entries to the 156-kilometre trail, so you have plenty of starting points to choose from. Along with great riding, there are also many points of interest to visit, like waterfalls and even a ghost town. It makes the Hastings Heritage Trail an excellent trail for a family outing, whether you are driving the kids or they can ride on their own.
Cochrane ATV Trails
These trails are considered an ATVers paradise! Old and unused roads let you ride deep into the northeastern Ontario countryside, where wildlife wanders around, and the landscape is stunning. You won’t just be limited to off-roading; Cochrane allows ATVing on town streets, so you can stop for snacks and drinks before hitting the trailhead.
Switzerville Trails
This trail is for hikers and walkers, but ATVs are more than welcome. It will take you up a mountain with stunning views and tons of places for you to stop and take them in. The best may be near the summit, where chairs are set up for you to take a little break and soak it all in. If you really want to get soaked, the trail ends at a secluded lake; it’s the perfect way to end the climb before heading back down. Don’t forget your bug spray!
Elliot Lake Trails
With 300 kilometres of trails wrapping around Elliot Lake, this is among some of the best riding in Ontario and the entire country. There are trails for all skill levels, so whether you’re a beginner who’s still getting used to how your ATV handles or an expert rider looking for a challenge, you’ll find it here. Along with all the epic riding terrain, you’ll also experience the glory of Mother Nature with ancient rock escarpments and crystal-clear rivers amongst the seemingly endless forest. The cool part? Even though it will feel like you are lost in the woods, you are only 30 kilometres from the nearest town.
Algonquin West
Although a couple hours drive from Almonte, the 450 kilometres of trails of Algonquin West make the drive worth it! The hilly terrain has trails for all users, no matter if you’re looking for a leisurely ride or something more challenging. There is plenty of wildlife in the area to catch a glimpse of and a gorgeous landscape to appreciate.
Minden Off-Road Park
If you’re looking for an excellent place for an ATV getaway, the Minden off-road park has accommodations and a wicked trail system. You’ll not only get to ride some incredible trails but also meet other ATV enthusiasts. Riding’s always better with friends, right? One thing to note: none of the trails at Minden are classified as “easy” or “beginner,” so be aware of your abilities if you want to attempt any of these trails.
Ready to Ride?
If you’re already planning your ATV trip, ensure your ride is in top condition. We can do any services your ATV may need to make your journey along the trails as smooth as possible. Visit one of our Almonte, Cornwall, Kingston, or Pembroke locations, and we’ll get you out there!
