BOGS & LOCKS
By the Numbers
Distance: 410 Kilometres
Total Ascent: 3500 metres
Unpaved/Paved: 80%/20%
Non-pavement surfaces are in the form of gravel roads, unmaintained roads, and rail trail
The Bogs & Locks bikepacking route is a grand loop in central Ontario – a course that wanders between hushed gravel roads, cozy trails and backcountry paths that carve a sinuous route in the landscape. Those who take the journey will be captivated by the sylvan settings, forested landscapes, placid bogs and the lockstations of the Trent-Severn waterway—a journey punctuated by the eyesome.
This route takes inspiration from the North of Severn 770 route.
To obtain the detailed route file, go here.
Highlights Include:
Glide along the historic Doube Trestle Bridge perched over marshy woodlands. Constructed in 1883 as one of several bridges on the Grand Trunk Railway mainline.
Visit several Trent-Severn Waterway lock stations – part of the Trent-Severn
Waterway National Historic Site that is maintained by Parks Canada. These can be a great place to camp.
Taking advantage of some of the most picturesque gravel roads in southcentral Ontario.
A ride through the Kawartha Highlands region offers superb wilderness cycling where, yes, you’ll spot several tranquil bogs.
Riding a portion of the Great Northern Bikepacking Route
Fueling up on the famous Kawartha ice cream
Pedalling along the smooth Victoria Rail Trail to the charming community of Kinmount
A chance to take advantage of lakeside backcountry camping
A visit to friendly small communities including Hastings, Coe Hill, and Omemee.
Stop by several unique destinations, including Marmoraton Mines, Ranney Suspension Bridge, and the Kinmount Model Railway.
Trip Start
The launching point for the route is Lindsay where multi-day parking is available. (The route file provides information about obtaining a multi-day parking permit in Lindsay). But riders can start and finish at any other point along the route. The route can be completed in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, with no clear advantage to either direction.
Difficulty
The Bogs & Locks route is not the most demanding route in the province in terms of length, ruggedness and elevation gain. It can be considered a good option for somewhat novice bikepackers, but one that will also satisfy more experienced riders. It’s certainly not the hilliest route around, but there are sections of testy inclines that require greater efforts. There are also some rougher sections on a handful of unmaintained roads and lesser-quality rail trail. For the most part, there are resupply and accommodation options at regular intervals along the route.
Trip Duration
It should take most riders between 3 to 4 days to complete the route. Bogs & Locks was designed to be a touring route and not a racing route. But nothing is stopping a keen endurance cyclist from gunning for a time goal. Like most bikepacking routes, it's best not to overestimate how fast you'll get through the ride.
When to Ride
The route can be enjoyed from May to October. Perhaps the ideal season for riding the Bogs & Locks is late summer and fall when the peak of bug season has passed.
What to Ride
The Bogs & Locks was designed as a gravel-oriented bike trip, so the recommended format is a drop bar bike with 700c, 650b or 29-inch wheels. If using 700 wheels, it’s advised to use 38mm tires or larger for improved comfort. Tires narrower than 38mm could make the ride less fun, especially on the rougher unmaintained road and rail trail sections that can be chunky in spots. Tires in the range of 1.9 to 2.3 will work well on 650b or 29-inch wheels. Anything fatter than that can be overkill. A rigid or hardtail MTB would also be perfectly suitable for the route and a good option on some of the rougher stuff for overall comfort. Good gear ratios will make it easier to tackle some of the punchy inclines when loaded down with gear. Run tubeless if possible to mitigate the chances of flats in some of the rockier areas.
Tough Stuff
Depending on the time of year, bugs can be a serious nuisance, including the dreaded deer fly.
The summer months can bring steamy conditions, especially on some of the exposed roads. Make sure to take appropriate precautions, including carrying enough water to beat the heat.
Occasionally, the route must veer onto paved roads with heavier traffic flow. Ride with awareness during these times.
Some sections of unmaintained roads and paths can be rough and require a greater degree of bike handling skills. Dismount and hike with your bike when needed.
The upper portion of the route, including the ride through Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is where you’ll find most of the testy inclines.
Expect to see ATV traffic on some sections of the rail trail. Unfortunately, some drivers are not as courteous to cyclists as others.
Route Updates
The route will be updated as needed. However, if you ride the route and come across any route issues or services that I should know about please contact me about this.
If you live on or near the route and would like to be a 'trail angel' by providing tenting space for riders, water bottle refill etc. please let me know. This is a great way to build up the bikepacking community and improve rider experiences on the route.
Lastly
It must be stressed that the route is entirely unsupported and unsanctioned with no insurance provided. All riders are responsible for their well-being on the Bogs & Locks route and ride at their own risk. The route developer takes no responsibility for personal injury, damage to personal property, or any other circumstance that might happen to individual riders cycling the Bogs & Locks route. There is no guarantee of route conditions at any given time and the route developer takes no responsibility for disrupted route conditions. You are entirely responsible for your safety and decisions that are made including accommodation and necessary detours. It is advised to study the route map and make note of your supply options as well as some possible detours (these are marked with a Control Point symbol). If you are not comfortable riding a section of the route take any necessary alternatives. Planning and due diligence is imperative as is riding within your means. People "racing" the route do so at their own risk.
If you enjoyed your time on the Farmers Folly please consider making a donation to support the route. It takes a huge amount of time and dedication to maintain and build these routes. If you prefer not to use PayPal other donation methods can be arranged including e-transfer. Of course, a donation is not required to ride and enjoy this route.
