By Bicycle
Cycle the Pontiac along the PPJ Cyclopark between the shores of the Ottawa River and the hills of the Laurentian Shield where farmscapes, forests, marshes, and stunning views of the Ottawa River await. Along the way, spend some time in our charming villages and admire the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Pontiac.
VIDEO - A cycling tour of the Pontiac
Cyclopark PPJ
This 92 km cycling path crosses the Pontiac from East to West between the Ottawa River and the Laurentien Shield. It was built on the old "Pontiac Pacific Junction" railroad; the steam train that in its time led to the economic growth of the region, cedes its place today to cyclists and hikers in quest of the Pontiac's inner beauty. The Cyclopark PPJ is part of the internationally acclaimed Route Verte.
Level of Difficulty: Easy • Surface: Stone Dust • Traffic: None. Off-road bike path.
Order the Cyclopark map: 
Download map in PDF format. Front, East Section - Back, West Section
Alternate Themed Routes
Vacationers' Route
In part off cycling path. 32-54 km circuit from Wyman (the Cyclopark PPJ East's starting point), to Norway Bay (a centennial resort area) and the small waterfront village of Portage-du-Fort (home to Pontiac artists).
Level of Difficulty: Easy • Surface: Paved and gravel • Traffic: Light and Heavy
Lakes' Road
Off cycling path. By way of Otter Lake and Leslie Park, this 58 km route (one-way) starts in the English-speaking town of Shawville (an excellent example of Pontiac's built heritage) to end in the small riverfront village of Campbell's Bay (home to the annual 'Bikes in the Bay'.)
Level of Difficulty: Difficult • Surface: Paved • Traffic: Light and Heavy
Coureurs des Bois Trail
Off cycling path. 45-55 km circuit starting in the small riverfront village of Bryson. L'Ile-du-Grand-Calumet is rich in Algonquin legends and the final resting place of the famous 'coureur des bois', Jean Cadieux.
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate • Surface: Paved and Gravel • Traffic: Light
Vinton Plains
In part off cycling path. 10-23 km circuit in the plains of Vinton, criss-crossed by gravel roads along the river that provides stunning views of l'Ïle-du-Grand-Calumet.
Level of Difficulty: Easy • Surface: Gravel • Traffic: Light
Wood Baron Path
In part off cycling path. From the town of Fort-Coulonge, you will cross Marchand Bridge (the longest covered bridge still in use in Québec). Across the 148, you will spy Bryson House (once the home of the wood baron, and famous Pontiac figure, Georges Bryson). Drop in for a visit. Then, continue on your journey to the award-winning historic, cultural, and aerial adventure park, Chutes Coulonge. (12 km one-way.)
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate • Surface: Paved • Traffic: Light
Heart of the Forest Tour
In part off cycling path. You will leave the cycling path at Waltham and take the Black River Road to the Black River Inn and Outfitter. Along the way, take a few moments to enjoy the rather peaceful Black River, its crystal clear water, and its exceptional, rich fauna. (22 km one-way; mountain bikes recommended.)
Level of Difficulty: Difficult • Surface: Gravel • Traffic: Light on weekdays
Upper Pontiac Way
Off cycling path. 85 km circuit to help you discover several of Pontiac's hidden treasures, starting with Chapeau (the main town on l'Isle-aux-Allumettes) and its majestic cathedral-style church, and Fort-William (an old indian trading post) where you'll find a fabulous beach and a bar/restaurant.
Level of Difficulty: Difficult • Surface: Paved • Traffic: Light
Island Tour
In part off cycling path. This 65 km circuit is a visit of historic l'Isle-aux-Allumettes where you'll come across some of the most magnificent panoramic views of the Ottawa River and the foothills of the Laurentians.
Level of Difficulty: Intermediate • Surface: Paved • Traffic: Light
For more information on the Cyclopark PPJ and services to cyclists:
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