This self-guided bike tour offers a challenging and engaging ride through scenic farmland featuring rolling hills, waterways, and lush forested areas.
The Farmstand 40 bike route allows you to peruse farmgate stands offering produce, meat, baked goods, maple syrup, preserves, and artisanal crafts at your leisure – you’re sure to find something wonderful to bring home with you!
Ride
Type: Gravel Ride
Distance: 37 km loop with 23 km extension
Staging Areas:
- 250 Clark, Powassan
- Alderdale General Store, 1496 Alderdale Road, Chisholm
Ride Supports:
- Basic Bike Parts at Home Hardware on Main Str., Powassan
- Porta-Potties at various municipal locations as identified on map; indoor washrooms limited
- Water fountains as identified on map
Alerts:
- Cell service spotty in places, Bell coverage is strongest in the area
Ride Description:
Starting from 250 Clark
Quiet roadways with both paved and hard-pack gravel sections lead you to a variety of farm gate stands offering produce, meat, baked goods, maple syrup, preserves and artisanal crafts. Starting from 250 Clark Street, you will begin on paved roads, which are fairly level throughout the downtown section. While the paved sections of Memorial Park Drive and Chiswick line have a few steep hill climbs, the hard-pack gravel on both roads have long sections which are flat and level. All sections of the hard-pack gravel areas have loose gravel shoulders, and can be dusty during the summer months.
Starting from the Alderdale General Store
For those looking for a slightly shorter route, park at the Alderdale General Store and head South on Alderdale to pick up the loop heading East on Chiswick Line. Heading West across the Highway 11 overpass will connect you with the Farmstand 40 Extension Route, offering a blend of long loose gravel stretches with hills, rugged off-road terrain, a paved secondary highway, and additional farmstand stops. Be sure to pause for a break at the Hydro Pond where you can swim, fish or have a picnic. Washroom facilities are also available here.
See the downloadable map (under MAP) and trip sheets for further details on route conditions, locations of amenities and points of interest.
Rest
Whether you’re seeking a quick break, or a place to stop and enjoy a great meal, Powassan and area has some fantastic options available.
EXPLORE
Hiking Trails
Stretch your legs and soak up the natural beauty of Powassan and its surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll or a longer walk, there’s something for everyone. The Laporte Walking Trail, JP Webster and The Pines offer scenic routes ranging from under 1 km to 4.6 km, perfect for a relaxing hike surrounded by nature.
Beaches & Swimming Holes
Cool off after a long ride at one of the many local beaches: The Hydro Pond in Powassan, Wasi Lake Beach in Chisholm or Centennial Park in Callander are just a few. FYI Centennial Park has an outdoor bike repair stand if a quick tune-up is needed!
SIP AND SAVOUR
When hunger strikes, take a break and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the trail-side eateries. Nearby favourites include farm-to-table dining at Wasi Chefs (by reservation only), bicycle-friendly 1886 Lake House Bistro, and The Wagon Wheel Restaurant which offers convenient bike parking.Â
Discover
The Great Powassan & Area Farmstand Tour
Follow this self-guided tour to over 19 roadside stands brimming with in-season, farm-fresh produce, baked goods, maple syrup, preserves and artisanal crafts. It’s a great way to support local farmers while enjoying the tastes of the season. Be sure to check the Facebook page before you set out to see who is open and what’s in season.
Farmers’ Markets
Ride up to one of the area’s farmers’ markets to find a wide selection of local goods and meet the friendly vendors behind them. The farmers’ market in Downtown North Bay runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays. In Powassan the market is humming on Saturday mornings. For farm fresh products anytime, visit the Carriage House Market in Powassan.
Treasure Hunt
Alderdale General Store and Cafe in Chisholm is a good ol’ fashioned country store complete with handmade crafts, antiques, groceries, fuel and the other type of fuel – deep fried cheesecake! Fill your bike basket at the Powassan Treasure Mill, a small market offering antiques, collectibles, books, games and more!
ACCOMMODATIONS
For a unique on-theme experience, stay right on the farm in a yurt at the FoxFire Farm or cozy cabin at Wistiwasing Farms. For more traditional accommodations such as motels, inns, and resorts, as well as camping, cottages and B&Bs visit Almaguin Highlands.Â
Tourism North Bay
Whether you are planning a weekend ride or a longer family vacation, North Bay has something to offer everyone. And after spending a fun filled day cycling and exploring, there is nothing better than getting a great nights’ rest. From cozy lakefront cottages to extended stay hotels, North Bay accommodations are designed to make your stay a comfortable and memorable one
What cyclists are saying about the Farmstand 40: “It was so quaint! The creativity of the farm stands was amazing, loved meeting some of the farmers who were present or would run out when they saw us coming. Every stand was professional and charming, and the quiet roads were great. We felt we were able to be social and safe at the same time.”
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