Saint-Jean by Bike: Quebec's Best Cycling Trails
Saint-Jean-Baptiste is Quebec's national holiday, and what better way to celebrate than to get on your bike and explore the province's most beautiful landscapes? Whether you live in Montreal, Quebec City, Saguenay, or the Eastern Townships, there's a cycling trail just a few kilometers from your home that's worth discovering. Here's our selection of must-sees, plus some practical tips for getting ready.
The Route Verte: The Most Comprehensive Cycling Network in the World
With over 5,300 kilometers of designated trails and roads, the Route Verte is the jewel of Quebec cycling. This network crosses the province from north to south and east to west, connecting cities, villages, national parks, and tourist regions. For Saint-Jean, a particularly popular section is the route along the St. Lawrence River, between Montreal and Quebec City, with its breathtaking views of the river and islands.
The advantage of the Route Verte is that you can tackle it at any level. Do you want a 20 km family ride? There's a segment for you. Do you prefer a 100 km two-day challenge with overnight stays in inns? The Route Verte offers that too.
Regional Must-Dos for Saint-Jean
In Montreal, the Lachine Canal circuit is a safe bet: smooth asphalt, transformed industrial landscape, cafes and terraces along the way. In Quebec City, the Plains of Abraham and the Samuel-De Champlain promenade offer river views and a particularly festive atmosphere around June 24.
In the Laurentians, the Véloroute des Bleuets in Saguenay or the P'tit Train du Nord remain absolute classics. Further east, the Tour de la Gaspésie trail will delight cycle tourists seeking adventure. Each region has its own personality, and Saint-Jean is a perfect opportunity to discover a new one.
Preparing Your Bike and Equipment Before You Go
A Saint-Jean outing requires preparation. Start by checking your bike: tire pressure, chain tension, brake condition. If you haven't ridden since the fall, a small tune-up is in order. Also plan a basic repair kit: spare inner tube, tire levers, portable pump.
Safety equipment is non-negotiable: helmet, front and rear lights if you're riding at sunset, and clothing adapted to Quebec's June weather, which can be surprising. A light raincoat in your pannier is always welcome.
Returning Home and Storing Your Bike Properly
After a great day in the saddle for Saint-Jean, your bike deserves proper storage. A wooden wall mount from Créations AVLR allows you to hang it neatly, protect it from bumps, and free up your living space. It's also much more aesthetically pleasing than leaving it across the hallway.
Storage is part of cycling culture. When your bike is properly installed on its mount, it's ready for the next ride — and you know exactly where to find it.
Hang your bike with style after every ride. Créations AVLR wall mounts are available online — made in Quebec, from solid wood.