These routes are longer, contain more climbing and longer times between resupply.

Willow River Store

One of my favourite routes is out to the store, grab a snack and then ride back to town. If you’re looking to go even longer turn right instead of left to the store and head out to Eaglet Lake.

Baldy Hughes

A great season opener ride as the road is usually clear fairly early and it’s often in the sun. You can refuel at West Lake most of the time but don’t hinge your ride on a water refuel as the taps don’t always work thanks to damage from day users. The lake is a beautiful stop though.

West Lake

This is similar to the Baldy Hughes loop above, but is shorter and just visits West Lake. A good early season route if you want to see ice on the lake.

Chief Lake Road

The best part of this comes after the church at around 25km on the outward leg. Then you drop into a lake and rolling hills with less and less traffic as you get to the end of the paved road.

There is no resupply points on this loop even if you have a water filter so go out prepared to have water and food for the duration of your time on the road.

Eskers Park Entrance

This is often combined with the Chief Lake Road ride above. Just like Chief Lake, this gets prettier the further you get out and the traffic tapers off as well. Head to the Eskers sign if you want a photo or just turn around at the end of the pavement.

Just like Chief Lake Road above, there are no resupply points on this route so go prepared.

Mud River Loop

This does involve some travel on the side of the highway so be cautious. It can also have a stop at Slaughterhouse for a cider and some food, but check if it’s open and what the hours are. Mud River has one steep climb but otherwise is just a beautiful cruise on a quiet road.