Spanning over 6,000 square kilometres in Eastern Ontario, Hastings County offers cyclists an expansive network of gravel roads, trails, and untouched rugged landscapes perfect for two-wheel adventures. From challenging climbs to scenic backcountry routes, our rural region is quickly becoming a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts looking to explore beyond the beaten path.
Places of Hastings County
Hastings County has fourteen member municipalities spanning in location from the Bay of Quinte to Algonquin Park.
Carlow/Mayo
Located in the northern reaches of Hastings County, Carlow/Mayo Township delivers remote gravel adventures with spectacular Canadian Shield scenery. Cyclists will find challenging climbs and rewarding vistas, with Mayo Lake and the York River offering picturesque waterside views. The township's sparse population and dense forests create a true wilderness cycling experience with prime gravel conditions.
Faraday
Adjacent to Bancroft, Faraday Township provides accessible yet rugged cycling terrain. The township features a mix of well-maintained gravel roads and more challenging routes. Cyclists can enjoy rides along the periphery of Silent Lake Provincial Park or tackle the rolling hills along South Baptiste Lake Road, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding highlands and plenty of nearby accommodations, from cottage rentals to camping.
Limerick
A hidden gem for the gravel enthusiast, Limerick Township boasts some of the most pristine and least-traveled roads in the county. St. Ola Road connects riders to a network of backcountry routes perfect for day-long adventures and multi-day bikepacking trips. The region's elevation changes provide excellent terrain for cyclists looking to challenge themselves.
Madoc
Madoc Township serves as an excellent starting point for cyclists exploring central Hastings County. The area features a mix of paved secondary routes and quality gravel roads like Kellers Bridge Road and Bannockburn Road. Moira Lake provides a scenic backdrop for rides, while the proximity to amenities in Madoc village makes this an ideal base for longer cycling excursions.
Stirling-Rawdon
The county's best region for Rambler-category routes, Stirling-Rawdon offers gentler terrain while still delivering authentic gravel experiences. The Kings Mill and Callaghan's Rapids conservation areas provide scenic picnic spots among the rolling agricultural terrain with moderate climbs, making this township ideal for riders building their gravel confidence.
Tudor and Cashel
For the adventure seeker, Tudor and Cashel Township delivers challenging terrain and remote cycling opportunities. The scenic viewpoint in Boulter should be on every cyclist's must-visit list, providing panoramic views after a rewarding climb. Old Hastings Road cuts through this township, offering historical cycling experiences along one of Ontario's original colonization roads.
Tyendinaga
The southernmost township in Hastings County, Tyendinaga provides excellent warm-up terrain for riders heading north. Daley Road transitions from typical backroad to rustic trail as you progress northward, making it an ideal introduction to the region's varied surfaces. The proximity to Belleville makes this an easy access point for cyclists starting multi-day adventures through the county.
Wollaston
Home to some of the most challenging terrain in Hastings County, Wollaston Township rewards cyclists with remarkable views and pristine nature. The Ridge Road provides both elevation challenge and scenic vistas, while The Gut Conservation Area offers a unique natural landmark. Cyclists should be prepared for Explorer and Adventurer category routes throughout this township.
Bancroft
Known as the "Mineral Capital of Canada," Bancroft serves as the perfect northern hub for cycling adventures. The town offers excellent amenities for cyclists, including accommodation, restaurants, grocery and bike-friendly businesses. From here, riders can access routes into Algonquin Highlands or follow the York River corridor. Eagle's Nest lookout provides a worthwhile destination with spectacular views after a challenging climb.
Deseronto
Situated on the Bay of Quinte, Deseronto offers cyclists unique waterfront riding experiences. The town marks the southern gateway to Hastings County cycling adventures and provides an excellent starting point for routes that incorporate TinyStays and Lil Crow Cabins. The Deseronto waterfront makes for a perfect post-ride relaxation spot.
Centre Hastings
As its name suggests, Centre Hastings puts you right in the middle of the county's cycling action. The municipality includes Madoc village, which serves as an excellent base with amenities like the Hidden Goldmine Bakery for pre-ride fuel. Moira Lake offers scenic routes, while access to the Hastings Heritage Trail provides options for multi-surface adventures.
Hastings Highlands
For those seeking true Explorer and Epic routes, Hastings Highlands delivers with its significant elevation changes and remote roads. The municipality features Baptiste Lake and Papineau Lake, popular cottage destinations, as well as public beaches like Papineau Beach, Hinterland Beach, Diamond Lake beach and Foster Lake.
Marmora and Lake
Known for unique attractions like the Marmoraton Mine, this municipality offers distinct cycling experiences. Crowe Lake and the Crowe River provide scenic waterside access, while the extensive network of mining and logging roads delivers authentic gravel experiences. The community of Marmora serves as an excellent mid-county rest stop with cyclist-friendly businesses.
Tweed
Tweed municipality offers diverse terrain for cyclists of all abilities. Home to Stoco Lake and the Moira River, water features prominently in many routes. The Tweed area provides excellent connections to both northern adventures and southern routes, making it a perfect midway point for longer journeys.
Can't-Miss Roads and Trails
It's not about the destination: it's about the journey! Enjoy custom routes that make the most of Hastings County's most historic and picturesque roads.
Old Hastings Road
This historic colonization road runs through multiple townships and offers cyclists a journey through Hastings County history. Dating back to the 1850s, the road features stone bridges, abandoned farms, and pioneer cemeteries. The road's natural contours follow the landscape rather than cutting through it, creating a more intimate cycling experience.
Hughes Landing Road
Perfect for west-to-east traverses of the county, Hughes Landing Road delivers quintessential Hastings gravel experiences. Expect a rolling profile with multiple climbs and descents as the road navigates between lakes, passing through remote areas with minimal traffic. This road formed a key section of the original "Hella Hastings" bikepacking route.
The Hastings Heritage Trail
While primarily optimized for ATV use, sections of the Hastings Heritage Trail can be incorporated into cycling routes. Riders should note that this trail differs from smoother rail trails found elsewhere, often featuring sandy sections and variable surfaces. Wider tires (55-75mm) are recommended for comfortable riding on this multi-use trail.
Daley Road
Beginning as a typical county backroad and gradually transitioning into a cleared trail, Daley Road offers a perfect introduction to Hastings gravel riding. The tree canopy creates a tunnel-like experience during fall rides, with vibrant colours making this a photographer's dream route.
Monck Road
A historic colonization road dating back to the 1860s, Monck Road cuts across the northern portions of Hastings County, connecting to Bancroft's neighbouring counties. Originally built as a military supply route, today it offers cyclists a journey through some of Ontario's most remote and beautiful wilderness. Riders will experience a mix of surfaces from maintained gravel to more challenging sections, with minimal traffic and maximum scenery.
Baptiste Lake: Look for accommodations in this area when you're planning for routes in northern Hastings County
Moira Lake: Central county riding with amenities nearby
Vanderwater Conservation Area: Offers both cycling and hiking opportunities
The Gut Conservation Area: Unique natural feature worth incorporating into routes
Oakley's Lakeside (Tweed): Perfect lakeside dining after a day on gravel
Rustic Roadside (Gilmour): Unexpected gem on northern routes
The Firehall Cafe (Stirling): Southern county refuelling spot
Eagle's Nest Restaurant (Bancroft): Northern hub for post-ride meals
Route Planning Resources
Ready to explore Hastings County on two wheels? Join the Hastings County Ride With GPS Club for free access to curated routes with turn-by-turn navigation. Routes are categorized to help you find the perfect ride:
- Rambler: Mostly established gravel with some chipseal, gentle elevation, and 1-2 challenging climbs
- Explorer: Testing new routes or additions, consistent climbing with multiple challenges
- Adventurer: Established but unpaved routes with fewer flat sections and multiple challenging climbs
- Epic: Routes 70+ kilometers combining multiple shorter routes with significant elevation gain
Plan Your Hastings County Cycling Adventure
Hastings County offers cycling experiences for every skill level. From the gentle rollers of Stirling-Rawdon to the challenging terrain of Wollaston and Hastings Highlands, you'll find gravel paradise waiting to be explored.
