The QEW Loop

The QEW (Quyon, Eardley, Wakefield) Loop — "Up and Over Eardley". Created by Eric Betteridge and Jen Adams.

SUMMARY

This compact route packs a lot in for the distance. Gravel and paved road, a ferry ride, covered bridges, iconic historic views, Gatineau Park trails, coffee shops and restaurants, a steep hill or two, depanneurs and chip stands, two river valleys and an escarpment all make for a variety-packed tour. If you are looking for an introductory bikepacking route with the rhythm and variety of The Log Drivers Waltz this one's for you.

DETAILS

The QEW starts in the historic heart of the region where traces of the lumbering industry still linger. It follows the Ottawa River by path and mixed surface roads from Ottawa to near Fitzroy Harbour where the Quyon Ferry awaits to take you across to Quebec. From Quyon, quiet gravel roads, some unmaintained in winter, lead you to the Eardley Escarpment which is where you will encounter the longest climb on the route. Your reward for the climb is a peaceful ride through the forested trails in the northern end of the Gatineau Park past Taylor and Renaud Lakes to Lac Phillippe where you can camp. If more luxurious accommodation and dining is your preference continue on to the Village of Wakefield. While there take the short detour upstream on the Gatineau River for a photo op at the picturesque covered bridge over the Gatineau River.

As you leave Wakefield you will follow the river downstream for a bit before turning inland. The climb up from the river is short but punchy so be prepared to use your lowest gear! All climbs lead to a reward, this time it is a sweet section of rural road along the Meech Valley with a second covered bridge.

A mixture of pavement and gravel trail will get you to Old Chelsea for more coffee and baked goods or a well deserved repast. A few kilometers further on you will hop onto a shared pathway that will take you back down to where the Gatineau and Ottawa rivers meet. A short ride upstream will bring you once again to the stunning scenery of Parliament Hill, the Museum of History and Chaudiere Falls, famous as a meeting place since time immemorial. Here you will find a variety of food and drink to celebrate your ride.

LOGISTICAL NOTES

The start and finish of the route is at the south end of the Champlain Bridge on the Ottawa River. There are several paid parking lots nearby though it is best to ride to the start!

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.