Blog
& Article
We at ONtrail are lifelong readers and enjoy the simple pleasure of reading – especially reading about Mountain Biking in Ontario.
Check out our ONtrail blog to find out where we’ve been, what we’re up to, and where we’re going.
Ride, Eat, Sleep, Repeat: Ontario’s Emerging All-in-One Destinations
Looking for an Ontario mountain bike getaway that’s more than just a ride? This blog rounds up four top destinations—Long Point Eco Adventures, Horseshoe Resort, Mansfield Outdoor Centre, and Hardwood Ski & Bike—where you can ride all day, eat onsite, and stay overnight without ever getting back in the car. Whether you’re into flowy gravity runs, techy singletrack, or a chill XC cruise, these spots offer something for every rider. We include quotes from the folks behind the scenes and highlight what makes each destination unique—from glamping pods and spa treatments to post-ride beer tastings and forest camping. If Whistler and Quebec have been your only long-weekend biking dreams, this blog proves you don’t have to leave Ontario to get the full ride-eat-sleep-repeat experience. Perfect for families, couples, or solo riders looking for more time on the trails and less time behind the wheel.
To E or Not To E: Riding the Marin Rift Zone E1 on Local Trails
I put the Marin Rift Zone E1 through its paces on a trail I know like the back of my hand. How does it compare to my trusty Salsa Blackthorn? In a word: surprising.
From wild descents to “impossible” climbs, I finally understand the eMTB hype—and I’ve got thoughts. Is it time to make the switch? I break down what worked, what didn’t, and what every rider should know before going full E.
Bivo Wants You to Roam, With a Plan
Fueling Adventure: Why We Created Roamer Bivo makes the first stainless steel bottle designed for cyclists. We aim to fuel more fun and we love getting out to explore trails
Wondering if You Have What it Takes to be a MTB Instructor? Follow my Journey
Each shredder in this collection is stronger and faster than I am. I”m hoping to catch them by learning the basics Well, I’m officially a certified mountain bike instructor—and yes,
The Best Upgrade Isn’t on Your Bike — It’s You
Before investing in bike upgrades, consider the one thing that pays off on every ride: mountain bike coaching. Learn why lessons and clinics deliver lasting results that no component ever could.
Why Supporting Your Local Mountain Bike Club Is a No-Brainer
Discover why supporting your local mountain bike club is the smartest ride you’ll take—help build better trails, boost your community, and keep the stoke alive for years to come.
Why Strong Girl Publishing Had to Happen
Molly Hurford on empowering girls through cycling, Shred Girls, and how bikes build confidence, strength, and community.
Mountain Biking at Batawa Ski Hill: Trails, History & Community in Ontario
Discover how Batawa Ski Hill transformed from a volunteer-run ski slope into one of Ontario’s most exciting and accessible mountain biking destinations. With free trails, community-built features, and a rich local history tied to the Bata Shoe Factory, it’s a must-ride spot for riders of all levels.
Bikepacking Adventures with Chris Panasky: Tips, Routes, and the Canadian Shield Summit
Love long rides in the great outdoors? Love routes that wander off the main road? Then bikepacking is for you.
Challenge Accepted
What’s it like to ride 120 km across a frozen road into a remote northern Ontario community? The Ice Road Challenge is more than just a ride—it’s a powerful experience that blends adventure, challenge, and purpose. Here’s what happened when I finally said yes to this unforgettable journey to Pikangikum.
Don’t Put That Bike Away Yet!
Don’t hang up your helmet just yet—fall might be the best season for mountain biking in Ontario. From quiet, colorful trails to the adrenaline rush of night riding, there’s still plenty of adventure waiting. Discover why autumn riding should be on your radar and how to make the most of it.
What I Learned from Whistler, Highland, Killington and Thunder Mountain
Discover how riding legendary bike parks like Whistler, Highland, Killington, and Thunder Mountain can help Ontario riders improve their skills, boost confidence on steep trails, and embrace speed—taking their biking to the next level.
It’s Not Whistmas, but it Might be Even Better
Dreaming of Whistler Bike Park? So was I—until I finally made it happen. From iconic trails like Uno Mas to testing Marin’s new DH bike with the squad, this trip delivered everything a mid-pack Ontario rider could hope for (and more). Here’s what it’s really like to ride the legendary Whistler terrain—and why you should start planning your trip now.
Discovering the Thrill of Mountain Biking: Join a Group Ride
New to mountain biking and wondering how to level up? Group rides are the perfect way to learn the ropes, meet fellow riders, and tackle trails with confidence. Whether you’re nervous or excited (or both), joining a group ride can fast-track your skills and connect you with the local MTB community. Here’s why stepping outside your comfort zone is totally worth it.
Top Bike Upgrades Recommended By Regular Riders
Essential bike upgrades recommended by avid riders: dropper post, tires, full suspension, pedals bike and saddle.
The Best Mountain Bike for You is the One You Already Have
Wondering which mountain bike is best? Spoiler alert: it’s probably the one you already have. Whether you’re on a hardtail or a fully rigid setup, you don’t need top-tier gear to start shredding. Local trail builders and bike shop owners all agree—just get out and ride. Here’s why your current bike is good enough to hit the trails today.
Golden Horseshoe Cycling Hub
The Golden Horseshoe Cycling Hub wants to build life-long riders and does so by appealing to everyone from the youngest beginners to those who are ready to race.
A Community Of Mountain Bikers
ONtrail i looking to be part of Ontario’s mountain bike community. We also hope to showcase the community members who make it happen.
New Year’s Resolutions
Here are 5 New Year’s Resolutions for ONtrail and myself. This image is a selfie of the author, Tim Durkin. He has a small smile on his face. He is in a forest with a river in the background. He is taking a break from a mountain bike ride in Ontario.
New Bike Day
Christmas is coming and for lots of us that means a trip to your local bike shop to buy a new bike – either for yourself or a loved one.
Coffecology On and Off the Trail
Coffeecology is a small batch specialty coffee roaster located in Hamilton Ontario. We roast-to-order sustainable coffee for delivery to our household subscribers and retail partners. We believe that business ought to be a force for good.
Celebrating the Visual Side of Cycling Culture
I want to focus more on celebrating the visual side of cycling culture and the creatives behind it. I love curating work that inspires me and meeting the artists and designers behind it. I will still celebrate my local trails on t-shirt but in a different way than I currently do. Stay tuned for more on what that will look like.
New Skills
Learning a new skill is always challenging. Or at least it should be. Add age, low-average athleticism, and a fear of failure to the mix and new skills can suddenly seem overwhelming.
Half an Idea
We’ve been making the rounds trying to spread the word of ONtrail to as many bike shops by dropping off stickers.
