Picture yourself pedaling quiet paved paths along a sparkling lake, spotting bison and waterfowl just beyond the trees, then rolling into a friendly small-town café for coffee and conversation before exploring more of the park’s rolling trails the next day. No racing clocks, no pressure—just easy miles, great company, and the unique wildlife of Canada’s first national wildlife sanctuary.
This free, relaxed camping-and-cycling weekend at Elk Island National Park is exactly that kind of experience. We arrive Friday afternoon, camp together at Astotin Lake Campground, and head home Monday morning. Circuit Cycle & Sports (our group host) has both an RSVP form and a Join The Group form ready on their website—whether you’re already a member or thinking about becoming one, this is a perfect chance to connect, ride casually, and enjoy Alberta’s prairie parkland. Campsites are limited, so claim your spot soon.
Event Schedule / Itinerary
- Friday – Arrival & Shoreline Exploration
Arrive at Astotin Lake Campground by 2:00 PM and settle in. We rally at 4:20 PM for our first ride right from the campground: the paved Shoreline Trail. This easy 6 km return route follows the original road around the south side of Astotin Lake, offering lake views, islands, waterfowl, and beaver activity. A relaxed, social pace perfect for stretching the legs and getting oriented—total riding approximately 6 km.
- Saturday – Campground to Lamont Café Ride
Rally at 10:30 AM. We ride from the campground north on the Elk Island Parkway, exit via the north gate, and continue into the village of Lamont (approximately 12–18 km one way / 24–36 km round trip). Our turnaround and reward stop is Soft Light Cafe at 4820 51 Street, Lamont. This welcoming local café serves thoughtfully crafted coffee, fresh light meals, baked goods, and a calm, community-focused atmosphere—ideal for refuelling and chatting before the return ride. Casual pace throughout with time for photos and water breaks.
- Sunday – Small Lakes Trail Exploration
Rally at 10:30 AM. We explore the network of multi-use trails that wind between the park’s small lakes (Shirley, Paul, Oster, Tawayik, Moss and others). With over 80 km of trails available, the day’s distance will vary according to the group’s energy and interest—many will enjoy 15–30 km of mixed loop riding through aspen forest, meadows, and wetlands while watching for bison, elk, moose, and birds. Easy exploration focus, not a forced distance.
- Monday – Departure
Pack up and head home at your leisure after a great weekend of casual riding and camping.
Bicycles & Safety
Mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and hardtails are preferred for the mix of paved paths, park roads, and natural-surface trails. Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes are welcome, but the use of any throttles is not allowed while riding.
Every rider must wear a helmet and use a reflective vest or bright clothing plus a bell on the bike. All participants shall obey the rules of the road and Parks Canada regulations for cycling in Elk Island (stay on designated trails and roads, yield to hikers and wildlife, ride single file on the Parkway, make noise near curves, and never approach or pass between bison).
Please bring a spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, and basic tools so you can handle any flats yourself. Pack road snacks that provide steady energy and make sure you stay well hydrated throughout the rides.
This is a free event—no fees are collected. It is designed for cyclists who enjoy casual, social riding rather than competition. Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for a relaxed multi-day getaway or newer to group events, you’ll fit right in.
Ready to join us among the bison and lakes? Head over to the Circuit Cycle & Sports website right now, fill out the RSVP form for this Elk Island weekend, or complete the Join The Group form if you’d like to become a regular member. We can’t wait to ride with you—spaces fill as campsites are confirmed, so don’t wait too long. See you at Astotin Lake!
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