CYCLING
Whether you pedal for pleasure or passion, the rural landscape and lakeside vistas are sure to captivate and connect you to our small town charm. Experience the joys of The Town of Essex by bicycle. Wind flowing through your hair, open roads, a couple glasses of wine, what more could you ask for?
The Grove Bike Co.
Bring your own bike or rent one from The Grove Bike Co. and pick up your ride at Colchester Beach.
They have e-bikes.
Yes, they are electric. It might be cheating, but, as you pass them, do you really care?
They also have cruisers. You know what they say... just "like riding a bike", and these are just that - the good, one-speed, vintage-style variety.
The flat landscape of Essex County is ideal for cycling. With our mix of urban and rural areas, the Town of Essex offers a growing system of trails and a focus on active transportation. We're also part of the scenic Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, a 1400-kilometre trail connecting people along the Great Lakes waterfront. Hop on and cycle along our growing network of scenic trails!
Chrysler Canada Greenway
Recreational cyclists will enjoy excellent sightseeing opportunities on this extension of the Trans-Canada Trail that connects the communities of Windsor, McGregor, Harrow and Kingsville. From Windsor, take the Chrysler Canada Greenway directly to Harrow, travelling through picturesque parts of our region. It's a 20-kilometre ride. If you're destined for the shores of Lake Erie, connect to the multi-use trail along Erie Street in Harrow and follow it to Dunn Road. At the end of Dunn Road, turn left and head into the heart of Colchester. Restaurants and beachside fun await you.
Check It: You will notice Essex County's first "green" cycle path as you cycle through Colchester Centre. This one-way, off-road path is ideal for pedestrians and cyclists as it encourages everyone to use the path on the right side of the road when heading toward your destination. Once you've refueled, head down County Road 50 on the CWATS Trail to enjoy EPIC Wine Country.
Cypher Systems Group Greenway
This 22-kilometre trail is the newest addition to the regional trail system and stretches from Essex Centre to Amherstburg, intersecting with the Chrysler Canada Greenway in McGregor.
In Essex Centre, take the trail at Sadler's Nature Park to the multi-use trail on South Talbot Road. Cross Highway 3 at Victoria Avenue and immediately connect to the Cypher Systems Group Greenway. It's smooth sailing to McGregor and other points south from here.
Here is a map of the two trails.
Active Transportation System
The County of Essex partners with local municipalities to upgrade and enhance cycling and active transportation in communities. As part of this partnership, the Town of Essex features a number of bike-friendly routes which include paved shoulders, dedicated bike lanes, and multi-use trails. Check out the County Wide Active Transportation System (CWATS) website and active transportation map online for more information.