Explore the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau by bicycle

Published on May 25 2023

The Vallée-de-la-Gatineau is the largest territory in the Outaouais. It’s known for its vast green spaces and unspoiled natural features, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hop on your bike and admire the beautiful scenery as you ride along kilometres of trails.

The Véloroute des Draveurs: A cyclist’s dream

Stretching more than 70 kilometres, the Véloroute des Draveurs (“log drivers’ bike trail”) links the municipalities of Low and Messines. The trail is part of one of the Outaouais’ five cycling routes and is also a section of the Trans Canada Trail.

On your hybrid or mountain bike, ride through bucolic farmland from the municipality of Low to the Chemin Marks rest stop. This 37-km section of the Véloroute has a crushed-gravel surface, a remnant of the disused railway line that forms the trailbed.

If you’d prefer an entirely paved route, head to the park & ride lot on Rue de la Polyvalente in Gracefield. Start your family outing by road bike and ride to the Farley rest stop. Bike through 35 km of enchanting forests and past majestic Blue Sea Lake on a fully paved trail reserved for active use.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, this path will suit you, with levels of difficulty ranging from easy to intermediate. With a maximum grade of 4%, you can pedal at a comfortable pace while admiring your surroundings.

There are 14 rest stops along the Véloroute des Draveurs, including the Blue Sea Lake stop and the Castor Lake stop with panoramic views. You’ll also find parking lots and tourist information offices.


Things to do along the way

Marvel at the vastness of the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau and take advantage of its rich agritourism offer. Dismount from your bike and pick your own produce near the Véloroute at Les Fruits du Sommet farm, or explore the area as you ride to Verger Merleau orchard and cider house, Thuya Farm, or L’eau du ruisseau farm. A multitude of proudly locally grown products await you!

Athletic types can go mountain biking at Mont Ste-Marie, paddle the Picanoc River in a canoe or kayak or on a paddleboard, play a round at the Algonquin Golf Club, or go hiking in Mont Morissette Regional Park. Get off the beaten track by discovering the dozen or so PERO trails located in various scenic parts of the RCM territory. So many fun ways to get back to nature!


Places to eat

Whether you’re looking for a gourmet meal or a quick bite to eat, you’ll find several restaurants and snack bars near the Véloroute des Draveurs. Good spots for a comfort food-style meal in a relaxed setting are 800 Degrees Wood Fired Pizza, the Resto Smoke ’n’ Grill burger pub, and the Resto Pub Le Rabaska.

For a culinary experience infused with the flavours of the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau, book a table at L’Huile d’Olive restaurant or visit the Épicerie L’Huile d’Olive supermarket and convenience store to stock up on gourmet foods. Take a moment to choose a bottle of fine wine.

For a well-deserved break, treat yourself to some artisanal ice cream from La luciole et le wezo in the heart of the village of Messines. While you’re in the neighbourhood, pick up some homemade food at the Marché Messines butchery and supermarket.


Places to stay

After an active day, enjoy a restful sleep in one of the accommodations with the Bienvenue cyclistes! (“Welcome, cyclists!”) certification, including Domaine Decelles, Camping insolite CarpeDiem and the Centre plein air du Lac-Grenon campground. Establishments with this certification provide cyclists with sheltered, secure bike parking, a pump and tools for minor repairs, and information on the cycling trail network.

Want to extend your getaway? Stay in a picturesque cottage where comfort and tranquility are the order of the day. Pimishka Domaine Nature and the Châteaux du Lac 31 Milles can accommodate your group of friends or your entire family. Relax in a beautiful setting at Dômes Outaouais or the Minitik Inn. Perfect places to spend the night on your own or as a couple!


This summer, get to know the magnificent trails of the Véloroute des Draveurs. Share unforgettable moments with your loved ones, and admire the impressive scenery of the Vallée-de-la-Gatineau from your bike.

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For information about more bike routes in the Outaouais, consult our cycling map.

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