Tips to help you get around Ottawa by bike

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Published on
June 12, 2023
Parking, roads, traffic and transit
Recreation and parks

Ottawa has approximately 325 km of City-owned pathways, 25 km of physically separated cycling facilities, and 340 km of on-road bicycle lanes. Here are a few more things that we’d like you to know if you’re cycling in Ottawa.

June is Let’s Bike Month in Ottawa. Visit Letsbike.ca for a full list of activities, workshops and events.

Two smiling cyclists ride the Mackenzie Avenue bike lane with the National Gallery of Canada in the background.

Safety first

We have a variety of cycling safety resources including information on how to use the various cycling facilities, understanding the signs and pavement markings, tips for cycling in Ottawa’s varied weather, and cycling with the whole family!

New places to ride

Here are just some of the projects that have recently brought you new cycling paths for your riding pleasure or will in the coming months.

These are in addition to cycle paths and multi-use pathways being added as part of Stage 2 LRT construction, such as the Rideau River Bridge Crossing at Carleton University.

A cyclist rides past a bike repair station.

Parking and repairs

Perhaps you’ve noticed new secure bike storage lockers installed the ByWard Market, the Glebe or Centretown. We’re just working out the last-minute details on this next level of bike parking. Stay tuned for an announcement soon.

Bike repair stations located throughout Ottawa can help you out if you find yourself in a jam. Find more information on bike parking and repair stands.

Biking and transit

All OC Transpo buses are equipped with a bike rack so riders can Rack & Roll all year long. Bikes are also always welcome on the O-Train.

Use the Practice Rack & Roll rack to familiarize yourself with the rack before your bus ride. The test unit is located at Tunney’s Pasture Station, on the right side of the Scott Street entrance. Use the OC Transpo Travel Planner’s Bike to transit option to plan a trip combining transit and cycling.

Learn more about bikes on the OC Transpo network.

For more information on City programs and services, visit ottawa.ca, call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-2401) or 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service. You can also connect with us through FacebookTwitter and Instagram.