Hydro Cut – MTB Trail

Length – 30 km

85% MTB single track
15% double track access roads

Elevation – There are 2 woodlots separated by a field with Hydro lines running up the middle; slopes gradually up westward.

Terrain – Smooth clay, mud patches, roots, the odd rock, grass field, bridges, structures.

Skill – Most trails Intermediate to Advanced (easier kids zone by Glasgow lot).

Traffic – Mainly mountain bike riders and a few hikers. Loops are one way. Main trail two way.

Maps – Well marked with posted signs and a  few maps boards. (could use a few more out on remote trail forks)

Facilities – Large parking lots, very close to malls, restaurants etc., no outhouse at trailheads.

Highlights – Well-maintained, and cut MTB track with variety and ample challenges.

Trail Fee – Free

Phone – None

Website – The Hydro Cut

Similar Trails – Albion Hills, Dagmar, Hardwood

Local Clubs – Waterloo Cycling Club

Access – Main lot is at 1522 Glasgow Street, Kitchener.  Ride west from Glasgow lot for 5 minutes to enter the forest.

The other (perhaps better) access point is off 1974 Snyder’s Rd. E. There is no sign and the side road looks like a driveway to a farm. Head down the hill across the tracks to the parking lot.

The Hydro Cut has some of the finest mountain bike riding in Southern Ontario. With 30 km of loops and almost as many trails, it is a favourite destination for many.

These twisty, hilly trails are in two wood lots connected by a straight open trail section along a hydro line corridor. 

Surprisingly there are a lot of loops packed in here (like Ravenshoe). While you would not expect it to be as hilly, it actually is. 

The local club keeps a well-maintained trail network with new signage, that flows well, and has moderate inclines on a smooth clay base. There are few rocks; just assorted exposed tree roots.

The ride never gets boring. All loops are short in length (longest 2.4 km) with random log rollovers, bermed curves, boardwalks and wooden or stone structures/jumps. There’s plenty here to add interest and challenges that riders love….and more added all the time. Grab some air if you dare!

You can take optional easy lines around many features and if none exists, then consider it a sign to be perhaps too hard for you to venture.

Trails tend to loop back to the same start points at three different junctions where there are map boards. 

A few favourites are the flowy fun runs on…

Read more of this review in my MTB guidebook with topo maps and riding tips, available as an eBook or paperback.