Planning your first trip? This beginner bikepacking guide to the Simcoe County Loop covers route planning, navigation, and stops for a perfect overnighter.
Key Takeaways
- The Perfect Starter: The Simcoe County Loop Trail (SCLT) is a 160km, mostly flat loop ideal for first-timers.
- Logistics are Easy: With towns every 20–30km, you don’t need to carry three days of food.
- Multi-Surface Terrain: Expect a mix of paved paths, crushed limestone rail trails, and some quiet secondary roads.
- Start in Barrie: It is the most accessible hub with easy parking and transit links.
The First-Trip Hurdle
Does the idea of getting lost in the woods with a heavy bike keep you from trying bikepacking? Most beginners feel that “gear anxiety” before their first departure. You wonder if your legs can handle the distance or if you’ll find a place to camp.
In this guide, we are focusing on the Simcoe County Loop Trail—the ultimate “Goldilocks” route for beginner bikepacking. I will show you why this loop is the best classroom for Simcoe County bike route planning, how to handle bikepacking navigation, and the bikepacking lessons learned from riding this specific Ontario gem.
1. Why the Simcoe County Loop is Your Best Bet
When you are starting out, you want a route that is forgiving. The SCLT is a 160km loop that connects Barrie, Orillia, Coldwater, Midland, and Elmvale.
Because it utilizes converted rail lines, the grades are incredibly gentle. You won’t face grueling 15% inclines that force a “hike-a-bike” session. This allows you to focus on how your loaded bike handles rather than just struggling to breathe. It’s the perfect environment to test your bikepacking gear list without being miles away from a bike shop if something breaks.
2. Simcoe County Bike Route Planning: Breaking it Down
Most beginners find that completing the full loop takes two to three days. Here is a standard way to section the ride:
- Day 1: Barrie to Orillia (approx. 35km): This is a beautiful, easy stretch along the Lake Simcoe shoreline. It’s perfect for getting your “trail legs.”
- Day 2: Orillia to Midland (approx. 60km): This section takes you through the scenic Coldwater area. It’s the “meat” of the ride with stunning canopy-covered trails.
- Day 3: Midland to Barrie (approx. 65km): You’ll head south through the Tiny Marsh and Elmvale. This stretch feels more rural and open.
Pro Tip: If 160km feels daunting, do an “out-and-back” from Barrie to Orillia. It’s 70km total over two days and keeps you close to amenities the entire time.
3. Essential Bikepacking Navigation for the Loop
Even though the SCLT is well-marked with green “Loop Trail” signs, bikepacking navigation is still vital. Forest cover can sometimes make signs easy to miss.
- Digital Maps: Download the SCLT GPX file onto a head unit or your phone.
- The “Paper” Safety: Simcoe County Tourism provides excellent physical maps. Grab one at a local visitor center as a backup.
- The “Rail Trail” Rule: If you haven’t seen a trail marker in 5km, check your map. You likely missed a turn-off where the trail transitions from a path to a road connector.
4. Where to Sleep and Refuel
One of the best bikepacking lessons learned is that you don’t need to be a backcountry chef. The SCLT passes through several “Trail Hub” towns.
The Best Food Stops
- Orillia: Mariposa Market https://www.mariposamarket.ca/
- Coldwater: Ice Cream https://www.coldwatericecream.com/
- Midland: Grounded Coffee https://groundedcoffee.ca/
- Elmvale: Chelsea Chocolates https://chelseachocolates.com/
Camping Options
For a legal and comfortable night, look at Awenda Provincial Park (near Penetanguishene) or private campgrounds near Orillia. Booking ahead is essential during the summer months.
5. Expert Insight: Managing the Road Connectors
While 80% of the SCLT is off-road trail, there are sections where you must ride on secondary roads. For a beginner, this can be jarring.
Expert Advice: Don’t panic when the gravel ends. The road connectors in Simcoe County are generally chosen for their wide shoulders or low traffic volume. However, always have a rear red light blinking, even during the day. This increases your visibility to motorists who may not expect a loaded cyclist on a rural backroad.
6. The Minimalist Gear Approach for Simcoe
Since you are never far from a town, your bikepacking gear list can be much lighter than a wilderness expedition.
- Water: You only need to carry 1.5–2 liters at a time. You can refill at gas stations or parks.
- Tools: Bring a multi-tool, a spare tube, and a pump. The rail trail surface is usually kind to tires, but limestone can be sharp.
- Clothes: One set for riding, one set for camp. That’s it.
7. Bikepacking Lessons Learned on the SCLT
After riding this loop multiple times, here is what I wish I knew:
- Watch the Wind: The section between Midland and Barrie can be windy. If there is a strong south wind, that final leg will be a grind.
- Dust Happens: In dry July heat, the crushed limestone creates a fine dust. Wipe your chain down every night to keep your shifting smooth.
- Getting There: Drive or GO train from Toronto to Barrie.
- Barrie Parking: Park at the North Shore Trailhead for easy access to the start of the loop (watch for time restrictions).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Simcoe County Loop paved?
A: It is a mix. About 30% is paved, while the rest is hard-packed crushed limestone or quiet country roads.
Q: Can I do the loop on a road bike?
A: It is possible if your road bike can fit 28mm or 32mm tires. However, a hybrid or gravel bike is much more comfortable.
Q: Do I need a permit to ride the trail?
A: No, the Simcoe County Loop Trail is free to use for all cyclists.
Q: Are there places to charge my phone?
A: Yes, most public parks in Orillia and Midland have pavilions with outlets, and local cafes are usually very accommodating.
Final Thoughts
The Simcoe County Loop is the perfect “proving ground.” It offers enough challenge to feel like an adventure, but enough comfort to ensure you’ll want to go again. Don’t overthink the gear—focus on the route, the towns, and the scenery.
Want more guides?
Cycle Simcoe https://cyclesimcoe.ca/