In Lanaudière, cycling is as much about getting around as it is about slowing down a bit. In the region, bike paths wind along rivers, pass through lively villages, and lead to gourmet stops that make you want to extend your day. Whether you’re into long road rides, leisurely family outings, or athletic challenges with friends, you’ll find miles of pure cycling pleasure. And the best part? You can come back again and again without ever taking the same trip twice.
CYCLING TOURS
In Lanaudière, road cycling takes on a thousand forms. From peaceful country roads and riverside paths to mountain climbs and urban routes, there’s something for every skill level and preference. In addition to riding through stunning scenery, you can take the opportunity to discover the culinary delights and hidden gems that line the routes.
GOURMET CYCLING TOUR
With its country roads, charming villages, and rolling landscapes, this route is perfect for combining cycling with culinary discoveries. Along the way, you’ll come across several agritourism businesses, shops selling local products, and ideal spots to grab a bite to eat or stock up on supplies. Rang du Pied-de-la-Montagne also offers a magnificent view of the surrounding farmland. Before setting off, take the time to stop at Chutes Dorwin Park to admire the impressive waterfall and enjoy the picnic area under the tall pine trees.
Distance: 75 km
Elevation gain: 558 m
Level: Intermediate
Area: Rawdon
LES DÉFIS DE SAINTE-ÉMÉLIE
This route lives up to its name: here, the climbs come one after another and your legs get a real workout. Located in the more mountainous part of Lanaudière, this route will appeal to experienced cyclists looking for a real athletic challenge… with stunning scenery as a reward. Between rivers, lakes, villages, and rolling roads surrounded by nature, every kilometer is worth the effort. And halfway through, the municipal beach at Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie is the perfect spot for a well-deserved refreshing break.
Distance: 65 km
Elevation gain: 852 m
Level: Difficult
Sections: Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie, Saint-Jean-de-Matha, Sainte-Béatrix, and Saint-Alphonse-Rodriguez
Note: A short section of the route follows Route 131 in Saint-Jean-de-Matha, an area that can be quite busy at times. Be careful and share the road.
BERTHIER ISLANDS CYCLE ROUTE
This route winds through the stunning landscapes along the St. Lawrence River and crosses the peaceful country roads of the Berthier Islands. Easy and enjoyable, it’s perfect for taking your time to ride, admire the views, and discover the charming villages in the area. Along the way, you can enjoy picnic areas, Route Verte #5, and even take the ferry between Île Dupas and Saint-Barthélemy to add a unique touch to your bike ride.
Distance: 77 km
Elevation gain: 219 m
Level: Easy
Area: Berthierville and the Berthier Islands
CYCLING THE CHEMIN DU ROY
This route takes you through one of the most beautiful riverside areas in Lanaudière as you follow the legendary Chemin du Roy. With the St. Lawrence River, historic homes, vineyards, and charming village centers along the way, this outing is perfect for a leisurely ride and taking in the scenery. Take a break at the Lanoraie rest stop or in downtown L’Assomption to grab a bite to eat, have a coffee, or stroll around a bit before hitting the road again.
Distance: 85 km
Elevation gain: 163 m
Level: Easy
Areas: Saint-Sulpice, Lavaltrie, Lanoraie, and L’Assomption
Note: Some sections require extra caution between Lanoraie and Berthierville. Exercise extra caution.
THE TWO LAKES TOUR
With its winding roads, mountainous landscapes, and magnificent views of Lake Archambault and Lake Ouareau, this route is a must for road cyclists. The hilly course offers a rewarding challenge while allowing you to fully enjoy the natural beauty for which Saint-Donat is renowned. And if you prefer a shorter ride, you can also choose to cycle around just one of the two lakes.
Distance: 64.5 km
Elevation gain: 604 m
Level: Intermediate to difficult
Area: Saint-Donat
CYCLING IN THE MOUNTAINS
This route takes you deep into the heart of the Lanaudière valleys and mountainous landscapes. With its country roads, steep climbs, and views of farmland, this loop offers a great challenge for cyclists who love to push their limits. Along the way, several gourmet stops and agritourism attractions give you a chance to catch your breath… before the next climb.
Distance: 59 km
Elevation gain: 802 m
Level: Difficult
Areas: Saint-Jean-de-Matha, Sainte-Émélie-de-l’Énergie, and Saint-Damien
Note: For a slightly less demanding version, you can take Chemin Montauban instead of Chemin du Lac Corbeau toward Saint-Damien.
Le Nordet
Renowned throughout Quebec, Le Nordet is a legendary route for road cyclists. Here, long climbs and mountainous landscapes stretch for nearly 90 km against a spectacular backdrop. With its high-quality pavement and wide bike lanes on several sections, this route lets you fully enjoy the challenge… and really put your legs to the test.
Distance: 88 km
Elevation gain: 1,023 m
Level: Very difficult
Area: Saint-Donat
Note: It is possible to do a round trip on the Chemin du Nordet rather than the full loop to avoid certain busier sections.
Urban Road Bike Ride
This route lets you discover the more urban side of Lanaudière while riding along several waterways and green spaces. Between Repentigny, Terrebonne, and Laval, you’ll cycle on an accessible loop dotted with parks, riverbanks, and a few interesting heritage sites. Take the opportunity to stop in charming Old Terrebonne or along the waterfront to admire the scenery.
Distance: 66 km
Elevation gain: 108 m
Level: Easy
Areas: Repentigny, Terrebonne, and Laval
A cycling tour through towns and countryside
This long route starting in Joliette takes you from the bustling streets of downtown to the rolling farmland of northern Lanaudière. Between the river, country lanes, and roads leading to the mountains of Saint-Gabriel-de-Brandon, this ride offers a great balance between physical challenge and the joy of cycling. A varied route that will appeal to both training enthusiasts and cyclists who like to take the time to admire the scenery.
Distance: 110 km
Elevation gain: 661 m
Level: Intermediate
Area: Joliette and surrounding areas
Bike Paths
In Lanaudière, bike paths let you enjoy the great outdoors at your own pace, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re setting out for a short family ride or a long outing in the fresh air, there are plenty of routes that let you discover stunning scenery, gourmet stops, and attractions perfect for taking a break between pedal strokes.
The Joliette Bike Path Tour
Nestled between nature and the urban landscape, Joliette’s bike paths offer an accessible and varied outing. As you ride along the L’Assomption River, you’ll pass through several green spaces, quiet side streets, and lively neighborhoods—all perfect for taking a break. Île Vessot Park and its suspension bridge are also worth a stop, as are the free beaches of Saint-Charles-Borromée, where you can cool off on hot days. This 40-km route starting at Saint-Jean-Bosco Park is ideal for an active day with family or friends. And if you want to extend the fun, the region’s cycling network stretches over nearly 175 km.
Distance: 40 km
Elevation gain: 143 m
Level: Easy
From Terrebonne-Mascouche to the Laurentians on bike paths
This major interregional loop makes it easy to transition from urban landscapes to natural settings by connecting several well-known bike networks in the region. By taking the TransTerrebonne, you’ll pass through wooded areas, lively neighborhoods, and more rural stretches while enjoying numerous points of interest along the way. Stop at Île-des-Moulins in Old Terrebonne to admire the historic setting, grab a bite to eat on a patio, or simply relax by the water. Further north, the route also connects to the Seigneurie des Plaines and the famous P’tit Train du Nord, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your cycling adventure.
Distance: 80 km
Elevation gain: 211 m
Level: Easy to intermediate
Saint-Donat Family Bike Path
Perfect for a short family outing, this bike path winds through the heart of the village of Saint-Donat in a friendly and accessible setting. The route begins at Parc des Pionniers, an ideal spot to extend your day with a swim in Lake Archambault, outdoor activities, or even watercraft rentals. A great way to enjoy summer at your own pace.
Distance: 6.2 km
Elevation gain: 55 m
Level: Easy
Rawdon Bike Path
This short ride through the heart of Rawdon is perfect for combining cycling and the outdoors in a single day. The route takes you to several must-see attractions in the town, including Rawdon Lake Beach with its natural white sand and Dorwin Falls Park, known for its spectacular 60-meter waterfall, trails, and picnic areas under the tall pine trees. An accessible outing that lets you fully enjoy Rawdon’s natural atmosphere.
