Distance
130 km
% Unpaved
90%
Ascent
1019m
High Point
224m
Difficulty
5/10
Almonte Gravel Express
The Almonte Gravel Express is a 90% gravel route on the edge of the Lanark Highlands near Almonte, Ontario. With tons of gravel roads, unmaintained roads, ATV trails, hydro-cut and some singletrack, this route is perfect for those looking to get out for a one-day ride, stay off the pavement as much as possible and have a good ‘ole time in a beautiful piece of the Ottawa Valley. This route is the perfect mini-adventure as it has all the key aspects to a quality bikepacking route such as the Canadian Shield routes.
This route was developed by Chris Panasky, creator of the Bikepack Adventures Podcast.
Highlights
Top Tips
Bike
Ride Notes
Sleep
Food/Water
Highlights
- Gravel roads: As with most routes so close to civilization, it can be quite the challenge to avoid pavement. This route gives you a massive amount of gravel to crush.
- Rail trail: Have a chance to relax as you ride on the OVRT for 10km and enjoy the crushed gravel trail.
- Hydro-cut and ATV trails: These will challenge your mindset and willpower, as they continuously go from fast and flowy to really route and chunky.
- Unmaintained roads: This route will take you through several unmaintained roads, which have an even mid of beauty and challenge.
- Rivers and lakes: This route will take you along lakes and rivers for nearly the entire day, giving you ample places to stop for a rest or swim.
Top Tips
Bike
- Recommended bike: For this route, a gravel bike is all you need to have an amazing day. You can definitely use a mountain bike if that is all you have.
Ride Notes
Sleep
- This route is mostly in the Gatineau Park but does pass by a few small towns along the way where accommodation is available. Otherwise, you will need to make do with camping if planning the trip as an overnight adventure. There are also shelter’s and yurts that can be rented for a more comfortable experience.
- Hotels: Almonte, Pakenham, White Lake
- Campgrounds: Pickerel Bay, Clayton Lakeside Campground
- Wild camping: The Lanark Highlands offer plenty of options for wild camping for the night. Please follow “leave no trace” practices and be aware that wild camping is at your own risk.
Food/Water
- Fresh water everywhere: Lots of lakes and creeks to fill up your water bottles. Be sure to carry a water filter or purification tablets.
- Restaurants/Cafes/Bars: The best food options when it comes to restaurants will be in Almonte, Pakenham, and in the town of Clayton.
Almonte Gravel Express Gallery
