Loop des Loups

This 335 km route is based on the Outaouais portion of Log Driver’s Waltz Bikepacking Route. Created by Eric Betteridge and Jen Adams.

SUMMARY

This 335 km route, based on the Outaouais portion of Log Driver’s Waltz Bikepacking Route, allows riders to immerse themselves in the distinct culture and landscape of western Quebec. With over 1000 metres of climbing per 100 km the route is challenging, but the rewards are great. Ranging from rail trails to epic climbs, this route will challenge you and reward you with great scenery and views. Featuring Gatineau Park trails and the Ottawa, Picanoc and Gatineau Rivers this route will inspire you from beginning to end.

Many riders will take a weekend and tack on an extra day or two to make a long weekend of it, while others will look at this as a two day challenge and suffer accordingly. Bikes with two inch or 50c tires are recommended.

DETAILS

Starting in Shawville the route takes advantage of the scenic PPJ Railtrail paralleling the Ottawa River. After this mellow warm up a sharp right turn at Vinton will turn you inland towards the centre of the Pontiac. A steep climb or two and a section of unmaintained road are between you and Ladysmith where a resupply may be in order.

Rolling hills will be the trademark of the route until you reach the Veloroute des Draveurs where the grade will flatten out and allow you to make good time if you so desire. Gracefield will provide some much needed sustenance and has a bike shop for minor repairs. Cross the Gatineau for the first time here and get prepared for some punchy climbs as you head downstream towards Lac Ste Marie. Boasting a campground and some awesome shawarma by the lake, this village can feel like Shangri-la if the conditions are right. Eat up and rest well because Mont Ste Marie and the legendary Trans Outaouais climb are just around the corner. Be sure to stop at the top and look back to savour the elevation that you have gained and are about to shed in the next descent. Not to be outdone the Paugan Rd. will complete the climbing trifecta about 30 km later just before the dam at Low. Riding down one side of the Gatineau Valley and up the other is a theme you’ll repeat at Farrelton and then at Wakefield. Sheep farms, horses, market gardens all contribute to the rich valley views and roadside scenery.

Ah, Wakefield. The historic covered bridge,food and drink await you here. If you are camping in the Gatineau Park buy supper at the General Store as it has the best selection.

The park trails have a tranquil feel for the first bit but do pay attention after turning off the short section of paved road as they are not without surprises! One non-technical surprise, however, is the viewpoint near km 280. Take a moment to wheel your bike up to the top and look out over what was once the Champlain Sea. From there you can see the valley floor where you will soon be riding upstream towards Quyon and beyond that Shawville. Note that there are only two stores between the Gatineau Park and the end of the route so plan accordingly.

The final leg of the trip takes you past the massive slag heaps at the Bristol Iron Mines, some sugarbush forest and then through rich farmland along the river. Several restaurants will be able to provide hearty fare if you have developed an appetite over the course of your ride.

LOGISTICAL NOTES

Note that the trails in the Gatineau Park are closed between November 15 and May 15. Please do not ride on them during that period.

More information can be found here.