Cycling in Brantford
Brantford is made for exploring by bike. With more than 70 km of trails, including 18 km of bike lanes, and easy connections to surrounding communities, cyclists can discover scenic landscapes, local history, food, culture, and more along the way.
Popular cycling routes in Brantford
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride along the Grand River, a longer adventure into Paris, Hamilton, and beyond, or a place to test your skills on the trails, here are some of Brantford's most popular cycling routes. View the City of Brantford’s Trail Map for an overview of our trail system.
Ride Along the Grand River
One of the best ways to experience Brantford by bike is to follow the banks of the Grand River. The Gordon Glaves Grand River Loop is a scenic, approximately 15-kilometre off-road route that follows both sides of the river through the city. Along the way, you’ll pass wooded landscapes, river views, parks and opportunities to stop and explore. For a longer adventure, extend your ride north toward Paris along the SC Johnson Trail. This trail connects Brantford and Paris, offering a peaceful ride through fields, forests, and scenic Grand River views. The entire Grand River Loop is a 48km route that winds through the heart of the city and extends into Paris, Ontario.
Brantford to Hamilton
Cyclists looking to head east can follow the Brantford to Hamilton Rail Trail. The 32 km trail travels through rolling countryside between Brantford and the Dundas area of Hamilton, making it a great option for cyclists looking for a longer point-to-point adventure.
Brantford to Port Dover
Cycle from Brantford south towards Port Dover through the LE&N Trail. This trail follows the former Lake Erie and Northern Railway route south toward Mount Pleasant, where riders can continue exploring the broader trail network.
Visit the Rotary Bike Park
The Rotary Bike Park at Rotary Centennial Waterworks Park offers a free place for riders of all experience levels to put their skills to the test. The park features beginner, intermediate, and advanced areas, including jumps, trails, pump tracks, and a skills area. Free parking, nearby seasonal washrooms, and access to Brantford’s extensive trail network make it easy to build a full day of riding into your visit.
Bike- Friendly Businesses
Planning a cycling getaway? Brantford is home to a number of bicycle-friendly businesses certified through Ontario By Bike. These businesses are equipped with cyclist-friendly amenities and services, making it easier to stop, refuel, and explore the community by bike. Look for bicycle-friendly restaurants, attractions, accommodation, and other local businesses throughout Brantford and the surrounding area.
Get your Bike Ready
Need a repair, some new gear, or a bike rental? Brantford’s local bike shops are ready to help get you rolling. Check out A1 Cycle, Brantford Cyclepath, The Bicycle Shop and Heron Head Bikes for bikes, accessories, repairs and cycling expertise. Heron Head Bikes also offers bike rentals and is located just a short distance from the Grand River Trail system.