Cycling

Saugeen Shores is a bronze designated bicycle friendly community and committed to providing safe trails and routes, promoting active transportation and offering ongoing education and outreach. Expand the sections below for more information. Listen to The Shore Report to learn about our 2023 cycling programs, bike safety, rules of the road, and being a bicycle-friendly business.

Cycling and Trails Network

Use our interactive map to view cycling routes and trails including surface type, amenities and bicycle-friendly businesses. As new cycling and trail infrastructure is added to the network it will be updated in the map.

Open the Cycling Map

Local and Regional Maps and Resources

Local Resources

Use the interactive map of cycling trails in Saugeen Shores, or pick up a trails map from the municipal office. Other local cycling resources and maps include:

Parks and trails in Saugeen Shores
Saugeen Rail Trail Map (paper maps available at rail trail heads)
MacGregor Point Provincial Park
Saugeen Shores active transportation information map
Explore Saugeen Shores

Regional Resources

Trail and Road Closures or Detours

There are no closures at this time.

Active Transportation and Master Plan

Learn more about active transportation and our Transportation Master Plan.

Benefits of Active Transportation

Choosing active transportation whether cycling, walking, or rolling, has many benefits extending beyond the joy of riding for recreation! There are positive environmental, health, social, and economic benefits from adding more active transportation into your day.

Check out the benefits below and make a goal of adding more active transportation trips to your daily travels. The benefits are supported by Share the Road's Bikes Can Do That! campaign and Ontario Active School Travel.

Environmental benefits

Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
Reduces air pollutants (walking and biking emit no greenhouse gases)
Limits noise pollution and congestion
Reduces the need for new parking lots and roadways
Saves valuable green space from development
Reduces your ecological footprint

Health benefits

Help residents lead healthy, active lives
Lowering your blood pressure
Improving posture and balance
Increasing your energy levels
Improving flexibility Increasing muscle strength
Reducing the risk of obesity, osteoporosis, heart disease, depression, and high blood pressure

Social benefits

Active transportation makes roads safer for all road users
Bikes make life more affordable and equitable
Making is safe and convenient for residents to cycle for shorter trips, instead of owning a 2nd or 3rd vehicle, can help to reduce annual household transportation costs

Economic benefits

Paving shoulders, for example, is estimated to extend road life by 10%
Attract more tourists; cycling visitors tend to spend more on average per trip than other visitors
Help to build vibrant downtowns

Student benefits for school and learning

Healthier students
Less traffic and pollution
Safer school zones
Better academic performance

Reminders for Cycling in the Fall

As the weather changes and leaves start to fall, it is important that cyclists and motorists think about how the changing seasons affect cycling safety.

Check the Weather, Dress Accordingly

The weather in Ontario is unpredictable at the best of times. In autumn it is especially important to check the weather before heading out for a bike ride. The variation in temperatures, winds and precipitation means different cycling attire is required from day to day. Dressing appropriately for the weather helps to prevent medical conditions such as hypothermia and heat stroke.

Check Sunset and Sunrise Timing

As daylight continues to get shorter in Ontario, check the time of day that the sun rises and sets. When cycling at night or in low light conditions ensure you have the appropriate lights and reflectors on your bike. If cycling in the dark is out of your comfort zone, be sure to plan your trips accordingly.

When riding anytime from 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise, cyclists need to have a white light on the front of their bike and a red light or reflector on the rear. The lights must be visible from 200 metres in the front and back direction and 50 metres from the side. Similar to bike lights, you must have white reflective tape on the front forks and red reflective tape on the rear forks of your bicycle.

Autumn Cycling Hazards

Fallen wet leaves can cause a slippery surface for the tires of a bicycle. Cyclists should be cautious around leaves on the road and trails, avoid them if safe to do so and slowdown in advance. If you cannot avoid leaves, approach them in a straight line and steer as little as possible.

Try to avoid puddles on the road if safe to do so. A puddle may be a deep divot in the pavement that can lead to the cyclist falling off their bike or losing control. Keep an eye out for puddles and potholes and avoid them if possible.

Keep your Bike Clean, Check your ABCs

In the fall when the roads are wet and muddy, it is important to keep your bike clean and check it regularly. Always check your ABCs (air, brakes and chain) before leaving for a bike ride. When returning from your ride, remove the dirt and grim from your bike to keep it in good working condition.

Stay Visible

Autumn is a beautiful time of year with many colourful leaves in Saugeen Shores. These beautiful colours also mean that it is easy for a cyclist to blend into the environment. Think about what you are wearing and if it is making you visible to motorists. Wearing reflective clothing is always beneficial!

Autumn is a great season to be cycling!

Cycling the Shores

2024 Events and Bike Valets

Upcoming Events

June is Bike Month, a month filled with activities to celebrate bikes! Check out our June events.
Lakeshore Women's Triathlon, July 20
Gran Fondo Lake Huron, August 17
Gran Fondo Kids Ride, August 18
August 19 to September 18, Kids Cycling Scavenger Hunt (self-guided)

Bike Valets

Park your bike with us, we'll keep it safe and secured. A bike valet works just like a car valet.

Where to find us?

Fridays, June 28 to August 30, 9am to 2pm, Marine Heritage Market Square
Marine Heritage Festival Weekend

July 27, Pioneer Park, 9:30am to 8pm
July 28, Pioneer Park, 12pm to 4pm

Interested in running your own?

Email our Cycling Coordinator to talk about how to set-up and run a bike valet. Bike valets are an excellent way to encourage people to travel by bike to your event, especially where parking may be limited.

Bicycle-Friendly Businesses

Saugeen Shores is part of the Ontario By Bike Network which certifies tourism businesses and locations as bicycle-friendly, helping businesses reach the growing number of cycle tourists in Ontario including accommodators, food services and attractions. Ontario by Bike is one of the leading resources for cycling-related information and where to find bicycle-friendly places to eat, visit and sleep.

If you operate a business that meets the bicycle-friendly business criteria, you can register for this free promotional opportunity.

Learn About Welcoming Cyclists

The Port Elgin Super 8 is recognized as the 2023 Best Bicycle Friendly Business Award Winner in Bruce Grey Simcoe. Jenn Cortan, the General Manager, joined The Shore Report to talk about being a bicycle friendly business, and the cycle tourists they've welcomed over the years. Hear from Jenn, starting around the 11 minutes and 40 seconds mark.

Listen to the podcast here.

Bicycle-Friendly Businesses in Saugeen Shores

173 High Street
A Knight in Southampton Bed and Breakfast
Chantry Breezes Bed and Breakfast
Rosewood Cottages and Vacation House on the Saugeen
Sunnyside Cottages
Super 8 Port Elgin
The Maples Cottages in Port Elgin
Armen's Cafe
Boston Pizza Port Elgin
Duffy's Fish and Chips
Highview Food and Drink
Just Like Moms Restaurant
Lord Elgin Fish and Chips
Rabbit Dash
The Garage Sandwich Co. Ltd.
Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre
Chantry Island Lighthouse Boat Tours
MacGregor Point Provincial Park
Martin's Bicycle Shop
Southampton Arts
Southampton Meat Market
Southampton Olive Oil Company and Tasting Room
Smoky Cactus
The Lighthouse Photo Gallery
The Walker House
The Wismer House
Three Sheets Brewing

Bicycle Repairs and Rentals

Bicycle Repair Stations

There are bicycle repair stations located throughout the trail and cycling network. To view locations on a map, visit www.saugeenshores.ca/bikerepair

River Street Trail Head (741 River St, Port Elgin)
Gobles Grove Main Beach (297 Saugeen Beach Rd, Port Elgin)
Port Elgin Main Beach (100 Green St, Port Elgin)
Memorial Gardens in Southampton (access at Laird Lane/Peel Street or Grosvenor Street South/Adelaide Street)
Trail Head for Biener Bush and Woodland Trails (395 Concession 10, Port Elgin)
Gore Drain Trail (south end at 4th Concession)

Orange bicycle repair station

Bicycle Repairs

Bicycle repairs are available through Martin's Bicycle Shop.

Bicycle Rentals

Bicycle rentals are available through Martin's Bicycle Shop in Southampton and the Paradise Inn in Port Elgin.

CAA Bike Assist

CAA is more than just motor vehicles! CAA Bike Assist is a roadside assistance for your bicycle that is available to members. If you run into a problem that cannot be fixed on the spot, CAA will transport you and your bicycle to where you need to go. It's available as part of your membership 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Members will not have to pay extra to be eligible for Bike Assist, it is a permanent benefit for members.

Learn more about the program.

Bike Month and Cycling Programs

Kids Cycling Scavenger Hunt (August 19 to September 18)

Our self-guided Kids Cycling Scavenger Hunt is happening August 19 to September 18, 2024. The scavenger hunt is self-guided, and a great way for kids to explore Saugeen Shores, and spend some time on their bikes.

How to participate?

Download the kids cycling scavenger hunt card (below) or pick one up at the Municipal Office.
Check out the clues and plans your route to find them.
Collect a minimum of 6 punches. There are 9 clues total.
Drop off your scavenger hunt card at the Municipal Office by September 18. Don't forget to include a contact number.
Wait to hear if you've won a prize. A draw for prizes will take place after September 18.

Get your scavenger hunt card!

Save the images below on your computer, print them out, and get hunting!

Scavenger Hunt Clues

Clues for Cycling Scavenger Hunt

Scavenger Hunt Instructions

Instructions for Cycling Scavenger Hunt

Bike Month (June) 2024 Events

Every June we celebrate Bike Month! Join us for activities and events throughout the month to celebrate, create awareness and educate the community about bikes.

June 1: Kids Zone and Bike Rodeo

The Kids Zone/Bike Rodeo is back at the Southampton Coliseum as part of the Rotary Huron Shore Run again this year! Check out activities, games, button-making and more on the Annex-side (curling club) of the Southampton Coliseum. They'll have fun well you wind down after the run. Free to enjoy!

Saturday, June 1, 9am to 11:30am
Southampton Coliseum (26 Albert Street, South, Southampton)
Bring your bike and helmet!

Adults are welcome to join the fun with their kids. Adult supervision is required for kids 6 years and younger.

June 12: Kids Bike Night

Come to Nodwell Park, in Port Elgin on June 12th from 5 to 7pm for a night of biking fun!

Kids can participate in a variety of activities including bike races, mountain bike ramps, button making and more! There will be a charity barbeque and prizes for the top racers. We hope to see you there!

In partnership with the Saugeen Shores Rotary Club and Rad Adventures.

Wednesday, June 12, 5 to 7pm
Nodwell Park, Port Elgin (788 Highland Street)
Bring your bike and helmet!

Bring your family out for a fun evening at the park.

June 17 to 21: Bike to School Week

Students are encouraged to ride their bikes to school all week. Bikes bring freedom, and summer is the perfect time for cruising around our town and trails by bike. Bike to School Week is a great opportunity for student to brush up on their bike safety and feel comfortable riding into summer break.

Watch our social media pages (SaugeenShoresON) for daily posts, June 17 to 21.

Bike-Friendly Fridays

Follow our weekly Bike-Friendly Friday series; where we focus on everything from bicycle and road safety, to promoting cycling and its benefits, to frequently asked questions and more. Over the next four months, we'll be sharing information every Friday through our social media accounts.

Summer Camps

Never Stop Moving Camp, 9 to 11 years

Campers explore Saugeen Shores, travelling by bike, to parks, the beach and places they may have never seen! Campers will be keeping active and having fun while exploring our beautiful town on their bike. Camps are full day programs. Register online.

July 2 to 5: Never Stop Moving Camp
July 22 to 26: Never Stop Moving Camp

Rad Adventures Mountain Bike Camps

Saugeen Shores has partnered with Rad Adventures again this summer to host 2 weeks of mountain bike camp in Port Elgin. Camps are week-long programs, and are based out of Nodwell Park in Port Elgin. Camps will be offered the weeks of July 8-12 and (July 29-Aug 2 SOLD OUT) August 6-9.

Port Elgin Summer Camp - for ages 6 to 12 - Rad Adventures

For question or to register, visit the Rad Adventures website.

Guided Community Rides

Join Martin's Bicycle Shop and the Southampton Handlebar Club on weekly group rides. Rides depart from the shop located at 235 High St, Southampton. Meet at the shop 10 minutes prior to the ride to check-in with the Ride Leader and complete waiver. There is no cost to participate. Ride schedule to be posted in June.

Requirements for Participants

Arrive 10 minutes prior to departure
Helmets, bells and lights are required.
16 years and under must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Waiver must be signed by parent or guardian 18+
Participants must follow the rules of the road
Rides will be cancelled in the event of rain and inclement weather

Safety

Request an "I Share the Road" decal

The Dutch Reach

The Dutch Reach is a bike-friendly safety technique that helps drivers and passengers check for cyclists when opening their vehicle door. This method encourages drivers to reach across with their right hand and passengers to reach with their left hand to open the vehicle door. Using your opposite hand creates a body twist motion that leads to drivers and passengers checking their blind spot before exiting. This prevents opening vehicle doors into cyclists or vehicles that are passing by.

If drivers and passengers do not check their blind spot when opening their car door, it can cause serious harm to a cyclist passing by. The act of hitting a cyclist with your door as you open it, is called dooring. The Dutch Reach is a simple action to help reduce cyclist injuries and to be a bike-friendly driver!

The Dutch Reach is as easy as 1-2-3:

Reach: Using your opposite hand, reach for the vehicle door handle
Turn and Look: As your body naturally turns towards your blind spot, look to see if there are cyclists passing by
Exit Safely: Exit your vehicle when there is no risk of opening your door into the path of a cyclist or vehicle passing by

Image credit: CAA Important Safety Tips for Drivers and Cyclists

Dooring and the Highway Traffic Act

Dooring will cost you. Under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA), dooring is defined by a motor vehicle involved in an accident if any door of the motor vehicle that is open or opening comes into contact with a cyclist, a bicycle or a moving vehicle, even if the motor vehicle is stationary, stopped or parked. Dooring a cyclist has a minimum fine of $300 and three (3) demerit points, if convicted, under the HTA. If you practice the Dutch Reach every time you exit a vehicle, you help to create a safer environment for cyclists.

Dutch Reach Resources

Learn about E-Bike Safety

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are becoming a common mode of transportation in Saugeen Shores, and throughout Ontario. E-bike riders are required by law to follow the same road and trail rules that apply to traditional cyclists, with extra safety precautions in place. Continue reading to learn more about e-bikes and how they compare to traditional bikes.

What is an electric bicycle (e-Bike)?

A power-assisted bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle with an electric motor. An e-bike is not considered a motor vehicle, however, to maintain this non-motorized designation an e-bike must have:

Handlebars
Working pedals
Two or three wheels
An electric motor
Braking systems

What regulations apply for e-bikes?

These are the minimum regulations you must follow when riding an an e-bike:

Be at least 16 years old
Wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet
Keep your e-bike in good working order (check your ABC’s before using)
Follow the same road rules as other cyclists

What is different about braking on an e-bike?

E-bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bikes, meaning that the distance required to stop is longer on an e-bike compared to a traditional bike. Due to these two e-bike properties, it is essential that you brake earlier than you would on a traditional bike. The best way to get used to your brakes is to practice with them before heading out for a ride.

Get to know the brakes on your e-bike:

Right brake lever: controls the rear brake and slows the bike down
Left brake lever: controls the front brake and brings the bike to a full stop
Never use the front brake without using the rear brake. The brakes on an e-bike are stronger and more sensitive than a traditional bike, and using only the front brake will cause an abrupt stop.

What about managing your speed?

E-bikes accelerate much faster than traditional bikes. When first riding your e-bike, start on the slower settings and get a feel for the bike before bumping it up to higher speeds. This will allow you to get comfortable with the bike and then increase the speed as desired after.

In Ontario, the maximum legal speed of an e-bike is 32km/h. When going this fast on a bicycle, it is important that you are aware of your surroundings because motorists are not expecting cyclists to move at that speed. Make yourself visible, use your hand signals and be predictable so motorists know what to expect.

The trails in Saugeen Shores have a recommended maximum speed of 20km/h. Be mindful of other trail users and how the speed of your e-bike affects them. Ring your bell well in advance of approaching other trail users and slow down around others.

What is important when mounting and dismounting an e-bike?

An e-bike is much heavier than a traditional bike because of the electric motor and larger frame. This can make mounting and dismounting your bicycle more difficult. The e-bike will not be as stable as a traditional bike, and you must be prepared to hold the weight of your e-bike while getting on or off. Using your kickstand as a stabilizer when mounting/dismounting is a good idea. If you have challenges swinging your leg over the frame of the e-bike, buying a step-through e-bike is a good option.

Tips for Safe E-Bike Use

Check your e-bike before each use
Check the bikes ABC’s (air, brakes and chain/cogs)
Check your battery
Wear a helmet
Be predictable and alert
Make yourself visible to other road and trail users
Monitor your speed – trails in Saugeen Shores have a recommended maximum of 20 km/h
Start slow – get used to your e-bike and its braking systems before using your bike at higher speeds
Remember that all traditional bike rules apply to e-bike riders

1 Metre Safe Passing Law

What is the One-Metre (1m) Safe Passing Law?

Since 2015, Ontario drivers are required by law to provide at least one metre (1m) of space when passing a cyclist. Regardless of the law, drivers should always pass at a safe time, provide as much space as possible and pass at a slower speed. The law requires that drivers:

Provide at least one metre (1m) of space between their vehicle and a cyclist when passing
Do not pass unless one metre (1m) of space can be safely provided
Travel at a safe distance behind the cyclist until it is safe to pass

The One-Metre Safe Passing Law helps keep cyclists safe, as they do not have the physical protection of a vehicle. Cyclists are vulnerable because of their limited physical protection and as a motorist it is your duty to give them one-metre and help protect them.

Safety Videos

Check out these great safety video resources.

How to Pass a Cyclist

Credit: CAA South Central Ontario

Share the Road, 1 Metre Safe Passing Law

Credit: Share the Road Cycling Coalition

Cycling and Road Signs

Check out these common road and cycling signs and what they mean for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

Cycling and Road Signs
Type of sign	Description	Sign image
Bicycle route marker	These signs identify routes that are part of Saugeen Shores' active transportation network. Unlike the signs that indicate exclusive cycling lanes, bicycle route signs do not have a regulatory function.
Share the Road	These signs inform motorists and cyclists that a roadway is to be shared and may be placed where a designated bicycling lane or trail comes to an end.
Single file	These signs warn motorists and cyclists that cyclists may use the full lane ahead and that the lane it too narrow for side-by-side operation.
Sharrows	Sharrows remind road users to share the road and offer line-of-travel guidance to cyclists.
Shared use pathway	These signs indicate that a pathway can be used by both cyclists and pedestrians and that the space is to be shared by both users.
Pedestrian and bicycle crossing	These signs indicate to vehicles that a pedestrian and bicycle crossing is ahead.

Theft Prevention and Bike Locking

Registering your bicycle and keeping it locked properly are the best ways to prevent your bike from being stolen.

Register Your Bicycle

You can register your bicycle with Saugeen Shores Police Services. There is a $5 registration fee. Visit the police station to register your bicycle or call 519-832-2500 for more information

Bicycle Locking Tips

Invest in a high-quality, secure bike lock, such as a u-lock. They require more time to defeat compared to chains or cable locks.

Use a secure lock, like a u-lock

Store your bicycle inside or in a locked garage, whenever possible. Avoid locking your bike to the front porch or at the side of the house or garage.

Park inside overnight or during longer durations of time

Lock the frame and wheel to a secure bike rack. When locking your bike outside, lock the frame and at least one wheel to secure bike rack such as an o-ring, wave or inverted-u rack. These types of bike parking are available in our downtown cores.

Lock bike frame and wheel to secure rack

Be aware of what you're locking up to. Avoid using bike racks that are damaged or not properly anchored and avoid locking to objects that can be moved, dismantled or destroyed to free your bike.

Choose a bike rack that's secured to the ground

Lock your bike in visible, well-lit, high-traffic locations. The more visible your bike is, the less likely is it will be targeted for theft.

Lock your bike in visible, high-traffic, well-lit areas

Don't forget your accessories. Be sure to take your helmet and easily removed accessories with you.

Don't forget your bike accessories

Trail Etiquette and Code of Conduct

Trails are for non-motorized use only. Mobility devices and e-bikes are permitted.
Pedestrians and mobility devices always have the right of way
Horses are allowed on the Woodland and Biener trails only.
Ride at a safe speed and in control, recommended maximum of 20 kilometres per hour.
Ride on the right, pass on the left.
When stopped, move safely off to one side of the trail.
Warn others you are passing by using your bell or calling out.
Keep dogs leashed and in your care and control.
Clean up after your dog. Pick up, bag and dispose of waste properly.
Show courtesy to all trail users. Share the trail.
Put garbage in its place. Leave no trace.
Stay on the trail. Respect private property and natural vegetation.

Bicycle Bell 101

Using Your Bell

Ensure your bicycle has a bell, it's the law
Attach your bell to your handlebars for quick and easy access
Ring 1 to 4 times well in advance (10 to 20 metres) to not alarm others
Use it to announce you're approaching a road or trail user and intend to pass on their left
Show respect for all trail and road users by using a bell and passing safely
Remember that wheels always yield to heels. Pedestrians have the right of way, always wait to pass until safe to do so

The Importance of a Bicycle Bell

Anyone who rides a bike, including kids needs a bell. Bells are required by law under the Highway Traffic Act which states that "every bicycle shall be equipped with a bell and is sounded to notify others." Bells are cost effective way to improve safety for everyone. They:

Alert other trail users that you're approaching
Allow cyclists to safely navigate busy trails
Build respect and trust among trail users

Use your bell when cycling on trails or roadways and when approaching pedestrians or cyclists. If you hear a bell as a pedestrian, it means that someone on a bike is approaching and plans to pass. Please move to the right when it is safe to do so.

Bicycle and Road Safety Resources

These videos offer quick reminders to keep cyclist and motorists safe while sharing the road.

Learn how you can help keep Saugeen Shores safe by respecting all users and obeying the rules of the road.

Bike to School Week
CAA South Central Ontario
Cycling in Ontario, Resources and Information from the Province of Ontario
Elementary Safety, Road Safety for Kids
Ontario Road Safety, Teaching Resources for Youth
Parachute Canada, Safe Cycling for Kids
Share the Road Cycling Coalition
Ontario's Young Cyclist's Guide
Ontario's Guide to Safe Cycling

About Becoming a Bicycle-Friendly Community

In 2017, the Town of Saugeen Shores worked with Share the Road Cycling Coalition to develop a report and recommendations to become a Bicycle Friendly Community. Community engagement and a local infrastructure tour were part of the report process. In fall 2018, the Town was awarded its designation as a bronze bicycle friendly community.