Welcome to another premium cycling route in Simcoe County, Ontario! If you’re a cyclist who is also a nature enthusiast seeking adventure, the Big Chute Loop is for you. Winding through Severn Township with views of the Severn River and Georgian Bay, this route offers great scenery, fascinating landmarks, and a delightful cycling experience.
The Route
The Big Chute Loop, just under 60 kilometres, is a cycling route renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance. With moderate difficulty, the trail caters to a wide range of cyclists, from beginners to seasoned riders. This route showcases the captivating landscapes of the Georgian Bay and Severn along a route with fun rolling hills, making it a popular choice for cyclists.
The route includes forests, Canadian Shield, and waterfront, immersing you in the region’s natural beauty. Pedal past woodlands, wetlands and farmlands. Enjoy the vibrant colors of wildflowers during the spring and summer months, adding a touch of enchantment to your journey. Here is a link to our GPX file of the route from Port Severn, and you can also print out the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail map of the route (see map #28).
The Big Chute Marine Railway
One of the major highlights is the Big Chute Marine Railway. Spend some time watching boats being lifted out of the water and transported overland to continue their journey. Dubbed an “engineering marvel”, this marine railway is the only operational one of its kind in North America, and plays a vital role in connecting Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay on the Trent-Severn Waterway. Take a break from your ride to witness the marine railway in action, check out the interactive plaques on site, and learn about its rich history and the ingenuity that allow boats to traverse the steep and rocky terrain.
Waterviews and Wildlife
As you cycle along the Big Chute Loop, you’ll be treated to waterfront views along the Severn River, Six Mile Lake, and Georgian Bay. The glistening blue waters, framed by rugged landscapes, create a picturesque backdrop for your adventure, as well as some excellent photo ops. Take a moment to soak in the beauty at scenic points along the way, such as Severn Falls and White’s Falls.
The region is teeming with flora and fauna, and the route provides ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, beavers, and a wide variety of bird species soaring overhead. Connect with nature and enjoy the route’s magical transition from farmland to rugged Canadian Shield.
Planning Your Ride
Before setting off on the Big Chute Loop, ensure you have the necessary cycling gear, including a helmet, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reliable bicycle. Plan out your route, or join us for one of our pre-planned and self-guided tours this summer through Georgian Bay and Muskoka, or the Simcoe Loop Trail Plus, which both include this loop. It’s always essential to stay hydrated and nourished, so bring plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks for your journey.
Along the route, The River Emporium convenience store in Severn Falls is a perfect pit stop for all your quick needs. If you’re looking for a coffee and a treat or sandwich, The Trading Post Cabin in Port Severn is a quaint and unique spot. Once you’re hungry for a meal, check out Big Chute Marina Restaurant (closed Wednesdays) for a convenient spot near the marine railway. If you’d rather keep on riding through, the Big Chute Marine Railway site does have washrooms available.
The Big Chute Loop is one of our favourite Ontario trails. The combination of a winding, rolling route plus natural beauty and a national historic site make this cycling adventure an excellent experience. Get ready to create lasting memories on this remarkable ride.
