The best bike routes near North Hatley are the Véloroute des Grandes-Fourches (54 km, certified as a “Route Verte,” following the Massawippi route along a former railroad track), the Massawippi Lake loop (about 24 km), and, for experienced cyclists, the Grande Boucle de la Vallée (117 km, mostly on gravel, in the Coaticook area). The first two can be completed in a day starting from Station Chêne Rouge in North Hatley, about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal.
This guide has been updated for the 2026 season. It covers bike routes, must-see stops, bike rentals, and gravel and electric bike options.
Bike Routes Around North Hatley
Grandes-Fourches Bike Route: The Accessible Classic
The Grandes-Fourches trail is 54 km long, runs along the Massawippi, Saint-François, and Magog rivers, and connects to Sherbrooke. It is certified as a “Route verte” and is open from May 1 to October 31, according to Bonjour Québec. It includes the Massawippi route, built on a former railroad track: a flat course popular with both casual and intermediate cyclists. Details about the route are available at cantonsdelest.com.
Tour of Lake Massawippi
The loop around the lake is about 24 km, according to the route published by Vélo Fusion on RideWithGPS. It’s the perfect half-day ride: the lake, villages, and coffee breaks along the way. For gravel riders, the roads around the lake offer the same route with less traffic.
The Valley's Grand Loop: For Experienced Riders
This 117-km route is classified as difficult: approximately 72% unpaved trails and 1,652 m of cumulative elevation gain, according to Le Québec à vélo. It is located in the Coaticook region, further south; plan to drive there from North Hatley and set aside a full day. Official information: cantonsdelest.com.
Gas or Electric: Which Option Should You Choose?
The gravel trails in the Eastern Townships are peaceful and varied, and electric-assist bikes make these same routes accessible to riders of all skill levels. Our article on gravel and e-bikes in the Eastern Townships details rides starting from North Hatley, including the Tomifobia Trail.
Where to Stop While Biking in North Hatley
The village of North Hatley. A Victorian village with historic architecture, art galleries, and local restaurants. Our 48-hour itinerary for North Hatley and our list of restaurants in North Hatley will help you plan your getaway.
The Massawippi Mercantile. A cozy café: local and seasonal products, wine, beer, and cocktails. massawippimercantile.com
Cie Villandré. A microbrewery serving hearty food—perfect for a beer break after a night out. lacievilandre.com
J.B. LeBaron's Grocery Store. A New England-style general store, perfect for a picnic.
Massawippi Lake. Go for a swim or have a picnic by the water. To rent a kayak or canoe, stop by the Massawippi Marina. For vineyards, the wine route from North Hatley takes you by bike from one winery to the next.
Where to Rent a Bike Near North Hatley
Vélo Fusion, in Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley, offers electric bike rentals as well as maintenance and repairs. Check availability and hours directly with them before you go: velofusion.ca.
Base Camp After the Hike
At Station Chêne Rouge in North Hatley, you can park your bike right next to your unit; the heated saltwater pool (open from mid-May to at least mid-October) lets you stretch your legs when you get back, and a campfire wraps up the day. If you come back several times a season, check out the country club membership: $149 per year, free Dayclub access for day trips, and 30% off Sunday through Thursday, 15% off on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays. Find all the details and sign up on the membership page. For more ideas on things to do, see also “What to Do in North Hatley.”
The Massawippi route on the Véloroute des Grandes-Fourches: a route along a former railroad track with minimal elevation gain, suitable for both casual and intermediate cyclists.
Yes, at Vélo Fusion in Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley: electric bike rentals, maintenance, and repairs. Check availability before you go.
According to Bonjour Québec, the Grandes-Fourches loop is 54 km long. It is certified as a “Route verte” and is open from May 1 to October 31.
At Station Chêne Rouge in North Hatley: glamping accommodations in the forest, a heated saltwater pool to relax in, and a private campfire—all just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Montreal.
