The Niagara area is a superb destination for a short and easy cycling holiday with the option to add on a wide range of diverse activities. The region is only 1.5 hours driving time from Toronto and 45 minutes from Buffalo, New York. There are four bridge crossings from the US into the area to make it particularly reachable by car for the American tourist. There are now two types of train service offered from Toronto to the Niagara Falls area on summer weekends so people without a car have easy access. If you fly into Hamilton, Toronto or Buffalo you can avail yourself of one of the countless shuttle or taxi options. Once in the Niagara region, cycling is an obvious activity choice for all abilities as trails are flat and many are dedicated to non vehicular traffic only.
In addition you might want to consider:
- a jet boat ride on the Niagara River
- a wet outing on the Maid of the Mist boat up close to the Niagara Falls themselves
- visiting and tasting at one of the seventy or so Niagara wineries that lie between Grimsby and Niagara-on-the-Lake
- spa visits
- a play at the world class Shaw Festival Theatre
- strolling through Niagara-on-the-Lake, one of Canada’s prettiest towns
- excellent shopping and dining
The Niagara area is best visited in late spring, summer and early fall. The weather tends to be hot and humid in the summer with rain possible at anytime though rarely does it last for more than a few days. Crowds can be large in July and August and accommodation prices may be higher too. The shoulder season usually enjoys good weather with the benefit of fewer people.
Bike rentals are readily available in Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. There is a range of accommodation choices to suit all budgets and restaurant possibilities cover the gamut of price points too. Start planning your weekend to weeklong get away to this picturesque area!
Inside the free Niagara Area Bike and Wine Guide you’ll find the following info:
- How to get there
- Cycling routes
- Where to stay
- Where to eat
- Winery info
- What to do when not on your bike