7 must-try cycling trails in Portneuf
By David C, May 26 2023
From the St. Lawrence River to farmland to the Laurentian Mountains, Portneuf’s unique landscapes never fail to inspire. Whether you are looking for mountain biking excitement, long distances on the open road or pleasant rides on scenic trails, your wheels will not be derailed here in Portneuf! Here are seven sites and trails that will leave every cyclist in awe.
1. Vallée Bras-du-Nord
With 100 km of singletrack trails in two different sectors, this exceptional site is known as a top destination for mountain biking. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will find the right adventure to suit your skills. With a wide range of accommodation to choose from—and plenty of outdoor activities—you will want to stay longer than a day to explore it all!
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2. Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf
The Vélopiste Jacques-Cartier/Portneuf trail—another regional icon—was built on the former 68-km railway right-of-way that connected Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier and Rivière-à-Pierre. With a maximum gradient of 4% and a stone dust surface, it’s fun for the whole family. Here are 10 reasons why you should try it!
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3. Route verte
For the past 25 years, cyclists have been exploring Portneuf along the well-known Route verte 5, on the historic Chemin du Roy tourist route. Along the 78-km stretch in our region, you will find numerous “Bienvenue cyclistes” accredited accommodations allowing you to spend the night by the St. Lawrence River.
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4. Véloroute portneuvoise
This 100% regional cycling trail starting in Deschambault-Grondines allows visitors to explore the upcountry of Portneuf County. Alone or with your family, visit Saint-Alban and the Parc naturel régional de Portneuf, Saint-Ubalde and Saint-Casimir while taking in the magnificent surroundings. Take the opportunity to enjoy a picnic with local produce!
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5. Sentiers récréatifs Portneuf
A 10-km network of easy to advanced mountain bike trails and a pump track—a beaten-earth track for mountain bike—await you at Portneuf’s Base de plein air.
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6. Centre nature Saint-Basile
In the heart of Saint-Basile, the nature centre offers 15 km of mountain bike trails suitable for the whole family. A perfect place to initiate the little ones, but one that will still thrill the most experienced mountain bikers.
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7. Centre de plein air Dansereau
This nature bike trail winds along the magnificent Jacques-Cartier River in Pont-Rouge for 7.5 km. You will enjoy the beauty of the ruins of the Dansereau sawmill, wildlife and woodland scenery. From there, you can continue along the La Liseuse trail, which goes up to Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier.
Note: The trail will be closed from June 5 to 18, 2023, for maintenance.
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We wish you a pleasant season and hope to see you on the road. Be sure to use the #PortneufInegalable tag when you share your photos—we love following your adventures!