Cycling, colours and relaxation: A gentle way to enjoy the fall
By David C, August 27 2026
Autumn turns the region of Portneuf into a vast vivid picture. As summer’s greens give way to vibrant reds, bright yellows and rich oranges, it’s the perfect time to slow down, take a breather and rediscover the region’s bike trails! Whether you are riding for leisure, relaxation or adventure, here are seven routes to enjoy this fall at a gentle pace.
Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf
Stretching for 68 km along a former rail line, the Vélopiste becomes a corridor of vibrant colours in autumn: forests and fields acquire warm hues, rivers reflect the golden colours of the leaves and rest areas take on a special charm. With its gentle gradient, it’s the perfect trail for a relaxing ride at the easy pace of the falling leaves.
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Véloroute portneuvoise
This entirely regional cycling route winds its way through Portneuf’s agricultural and woodland landscapes. In autumn, the fields turn golden and the woods take on a reddish hue, enveloping the villages in a peaceful atmosphere. This is an ideal route for those looking for a ride dotted with soothing panoramic views and quiet country lanes.
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Route verte 5 – Chemin du Roy
Running alongside the St. Lawrence River, Route verte 5 offers spectacular autumn scenery in the region of Portneuf, with a 78-kilometre succession of vantage points overlooking the river, historic villages and the colourful trees lining the Chemin du Roy. It is a trip that inspires contemplation as you cycle calmly, stopping to admire the shoreline and soak up the golden light bathing the riverbanks.
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Centre de plein air Dansereau
In Pont-Rouge, this nature trail winds along the magnificent Jacques-Cartier River for 7.5 km. If you are looking to make the most of your visit, you can continue along the La Liseuse trail up to Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier for more colourful views.
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Sentiers récréatifs Portneuf
Starting from Base de plein air de Portneuf, this 10-kilometre network of mountain bike trails is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the autumn forest. The trails ranging from easy to advanced allow you to cycle at a leisurely pace, listen to the wind rustling through the leaves and enjoy a peaceful yet exhilarating setting.
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Vallée Bras-du-Nord
Vallée Bras-du-Nord is already renowned for its 100 km of mountain bike trails, but in autumn, it becomes a true treasure trove of colours. The valley fills with morning mist, viewpoints offer dazzling panoramic views, and singletracks wind their way through the colourful trees.
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Centre Nature Saint-Basile
This nature centre in the heart of Saint-Basile offers 15 km of mountain bike trails suitable for the whole family. Thanks to the more challenging sections, more experienced cyclists will also find something to suit them here while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere so typical of this time of year.
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In the fall, the region reveals its most beautiful colours. Whether in the forest, across the farmland or along the St. Lawrence River, each route offers a new way to enjoy the season and its stunning scenery. #RegionPortneuf
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Bonus
10 top hiking spots in Portneuf this fall – Find out more here
Promenade-Fleuve: fall colours along the shoreline – Find out more here
On the greens of Portneuf this fall – Find out more here