Ontario’s mountain bike scene has never looked stronger. New networks are popping up, established ones are leveling up, and local trail crews across the province are building like they’ve got something to prove. With so much momentum, narrowing down the best places to ride in 2025 wasn’t easy. But it was a whole lot of fun.

The 2025 ONtrail Shortlist highlights five destinations that capture the full spectrum of Ontario riding: fast-growing resorts, community-driven trail systems, hidden gems, and flow-heavy playgrounds that keep riders smiling lap after lap.

Whether you’re planning your next road trip, updating your ride bucket list, or just curious about where the province’s MTB energy is heading, this list is your guide to the trails shaping Ontario’s future.

Wilderness Tours: Ontario’s Rising MTB Resort

Wilderness Tours is quickly becoming one of Ontario’s most exciting new mountain bike destinations. With a sneaky 300 feet of vertical, the terrain is bigger and more legit than you’d expect, and the trail crew builds like they’re being chased.  The network sits at about 20 km and is expanding nonstop.Early standouts like Air Bud, River Run, and Kessel Run are already earning rave reviews. And the best part? You can stay, ride, eat, repeat without leaving the property. Cabins, a restaurant, a Norco rental fleet, plus a waterpark give it a laid back resort vibe that’ll keep you coming back.

My experience: I spent one night on-site and it was more than enough to convince me to go back and stay longer. The Cedar Cabin was simple but cozy. Rafters Pavilion offers 3 tasty meals a day, as well as musical entertainment every night. The trails are DH-oriented, in great shape, and the network is always expanding.  Oh, and there’s now shuttle service on weekends. What’s not to love about this place?

Why It’s a Top 5 Spot:
Because the terrain is real, the momentum is real, and you can feel the potential every time you drop in. Wilderness Tours isn’t just building trails, they’re building a future MTB hub for the province.

North Bay: Flawless Fun Trails & Rugged Runs

North Bay’s MTB scene is punching above its weight. With 50+ km of trails, riders get a mix of flowy singletrack, punchy climbs, and technical features that test skill and stamina. Standouts like The Three Towers Trails and The Laurentian Escarpment offer everything from beginner-friendly loops to fast, challenging drops and tech. North Bay’s trail community is enthusiastic, and always growing, giving riders a real feel for Ontario MTB culture.

My experience: It’s tough to beat the experience we had in North Bay. The trails are as diverse as you’d ever want, and the riding crew was as fun as you could ask for. You definitely want to spend a weekend here so you get a chance to ride the multiple trail centres. XC one day, enduro the next… yes please!

Why It’s Top 5 Material: Variety, and a growing trail network that keeps locals and visitors coming back. Oh, and the trails are just a short drive from town. 

Sault Ste. Marie: All the Singletrack Money Can Buy

It’s often said that The Sault Cycling Club is trying to turn Sault Ste. Marie into Bentonville North. If you’ve never been, allow me to assure you, they’re getting close. They’ve managed to crack the code for fundraising and it’s immediately obvious that the money raised is in the trails. The Hiawatha Highlands truly has something for everyone – flow, tech, speed and views. Not enough for you? Take a trip over to Farmer Lake and session their enduro trails. With this many trails, it’s easy to plan a full day—or weekend—of riding. 

My experience: A race is kind of a strange way to experience trails for the first time. Having said that, the Salty Marie gave me all the reason I would ever need to go back. The network is massive and has a LOT for everyone. 

Why It’s Top 5 Material: Rugged, technical terrain with a strong local MTB community.

Woodnewton: Hidden Gem with Flow

Woodnewton may not yet have the name recognition of some of it’s neighbour trail centres, but its tight, flowing singletrack make it a must-ride for those in the know. The network is smaller—roughly 15-20km – but thoughtfully designed with berms, rollers, and optional features that keep every ride interesting. Woodnewton feels like one of those places where the trail crew really knows what they’re doing, giving riders an authentic Ontario experience without the crowds. Be sure to sign up for the Woody Race Series, or take one of RADCO’s clinics, because those are the only ways to explore these private trails. Believe me, it’s worth it. 

My experience: A guided tour with both Derek and Cory gave me a a lot of insight into these unique trails. This place has a long history of MTB, but the current trail builders have safety, progression, and fun all at the forefront. Sign up for a Wednesday Night Race, or a RADCO clinic and experience the stoke for yourself. 

Why It’s Top 5 Material: Flowy, fun trails with big personality; a growing destination that rewards those willing to explore. 

Trail Hub: Flow, Features, and Family Vibes

Based on the old Skyloft ski hill, Trail Hub prides itself on a trail design which takes full advantage of its topography. The network isn’t huge – yet – but every trail feels dialed. From smooth, flowing blues, rollable features that can make your heart skip, and jumps that’ll send you flying, Trail Hub caters to beginners and seasoned riders alike. With food and drink on-site, as well as a full service bike shop, Trail Hub makes it easy to ride all day without worrying about logistics. Whether you’re looking for a casual loop or a few laps of proper flow, Trail Hub delivers.

My experience: I’ve ridden Dagmar North multiple times and it’s a good day of XC riding. The Trail Hub is looking to add something a little different to the area: sessionable flow. Go for the flow, stay for the food and enjoy the views. Rent an e-bike and it’s an all day, All Durham kinda day. 

Why it makes the list: Fun, flowing, and built with riders in mind—a great all-rounder that’s quickly becoming a favorite for Ontario MTB locals.

Ontario’s trail centres are evolving faster than ever, and the five spots on this shortlist represent some of the very best of that growth. Places where passionate builders, supportive communities, and incredible terrain come together to create unforgettable riding. Whether you’re chasing gravity, craving flow, or looking for a weekend escape with friends, each of these destinations delivers something special.

But the real beauty of Ontario’s MTB scene? It doesn’t stop here. New trails are being cut, old favourites are getting refreshed, and communities across the province are pushing the sport forward every season. So get out there, explore, and ride something new—your next favourite trail might be just around the corner.