Grand Adventures

Small, group rides that explore the Grand River and celebrate the natural wonders and thriving communities across the watershed. Join a volunteer-run ride in your community and don't miss the Bikes and Blues Festival on August 24th!

Our Grand Adventures routes are fun, simple rides that reconnect us to the river, and each other.

Things you might want to know.

  • Group Rides, No-Drop

    Our guided rides are run by volunteers. Groups are small (typically 5-10), and the pace is customized to fit the group, ranging from slow rides to a quick clip. The rides operate with a no-drop policy so choose your pace group conservatively.

  • Safety First

    Helmets are mandatory. Rear lights and an extra tube for your tires are also a good idea but optional. Every rider must take responsibility for showing up with a well-maintained, safe bike to ride.

  • Prepare for the Conditions

    We always follow guidance of Environment Canada and post any updates or cancellations by 8am on the morning of the ride via email. Please keep an eye on the weather leading up to the ride, and bring appropriate clothes.

  • Start Time & Location

    The start time and location will be provided when you register. Be pedal-ready at the stated start time.

  • Bring Snacks & Water

    Bring snacks and enough water for the ride. For rides over 35km, there will be an option to stop at a local cafe to grab an additional snack and water.

  • Stay with your Ride Leader

    All riders should stay together with your ride leader, and stop at all intersections and turns to re-group.

  • Download the Route

    The route for each ride will be downloadable as a “GPX” file so that it can be loaded on your phone and/or bike computer. It can also be printed.

  • Pick-up

    Ensure you select a ride that is within your abilities as pick-up options are limited to medical emergencies. In the case of minor mechanicals, there will be ride guides able to support (e.g. flat tires). Make sure your emergency contact is someone who can pick you up in the case of more serious mechanicals.

  • Check your email

    Check your email and contact phone at 8am the day of the ride for any last minute announcements.

Our Grand River Group Rides

Riders will participate in guided groups of 6-10 and will stay together at all times. You will be matched with other riders by pace and grouped with family and friends.

August 24, 2024

Elora and the Upper Grand

The Bikes and Blues Festival (August 24th) brings together riders of all types to explore and celebrate the hidden wonders of the Upper Grand. We have crafted three rides based on deep local knowledge, including the Trestle Bridge Triangle (10km), Grand Shand (30km), and the Luther Marsh Lasso (95km)

June 22, 2024

Waterloo

The Laurel Creek loop starts at the University of Waterloo, just outside the Faculty of Environment. The 20km-loop features weaves along city bike paths and quiet roads with highlights including a lookout at Laurel Creek Conservation Area and hidden connections to the Creek throughout the city. Created by University of Waterloo alum, Steve Shikaze the ride can be downloaded below. A group of 30 riders did the route together in June 2024, and anyone can download the route for a self-guided adventure.

All routes in our Water Cycles library are freely available for the public. If you choose to follow these routes on a self-guided ride, you do so at your own risk. Be aware that road conditions may change, and that some turns can be hard to find!