Itching to get out on the fat bike trails this winter and looking for a place to ride in the Gatineau Park? The National Capital Commission has responded to increasing demand and expanded it’s fat bike pilot project to include trails 70, 71 and 72 in the Gatineau Park. These trails are accessible from parking lots P17 and P15, minutes away from the village of Wakefield.
Fat Biking has increased in popularity in the last few years and is now among one of the fastest growing winter sports in Canada!
Where to Rent Fat Bikes in Wakefield
Expéditions Wakefield rents Fat Bikes all winter long. They are located in the heart of Wakefield village at 721 Chemin Riverside and you can ride straight from the shop onto the trails at P17. Their rates are $40 for 3 hours or $55 for the full day. Weekend rates are also available. You can also join a group ride on Saturday mornings, departing from Expéditions Wakefield. Rides are free for people who have their own bikes, or you can rent one from the store. Helmets and snowshoe passes are required.
Fat Bike Rules Observed in the Gatineau Park
Only winter bikes, also known as “fat bikes”, equipped with tires at least 9.4 cm (3.7-in.) wide will be permitted.
The 28-km long trail network varies from moderate to difficult, and is for cyclists accustomed to rough terrain. The main trailhead are P1 (Asticou), P15 and P17 parking lots.
You’ll need a pass to access the trails. The rates are the same as snowshoe pass rates. You can purchase a daily or season pass. The season pass entitles you to exclusive benefits and discounts. Cross-country ski passes are also accepted.
Rules and Code of Ethics
- Wear your pass in plain view.
- Yield to snowshoers. You have them to thank for the hard trails you use.
- Keep off cross-country ski trails, except at designated crossings, and yield to skiers.
- Avoid locking your rear wheel (skidding) on downhill runs; the ruts left behind can damage the trails.
Recommendations
- Required outdoor temperature: 0 °C or less
- Required depth of snow cover: 5 cm (2 inches) or more
- Recommended tire pressure: 10 PSI or less
- Get off the trails:
- If your tracks are deeper than 2.5 cm (1 inch);
- If you have trouble steering in a straight line;
- If you have to walk your bike up small, easy hills.
Be courteous, and respect other Park users.
Learn More about Fat Biking
Find out more about fat biking, maps and trail conditions in the Gatineau Park by visiting the National Capital Commission, OMBA or Expéditions Wakefield for more information.
