Fanshawe – MTB / Park Trail

Length – 22+ km

15% MTB single track
65% hiking trail
20% access roads

Elevation – flat sections with flowing gentle hills

Terrain – smooth soil, a few rocks & roots, some gravel sections, mud puddles, paved road

Skill – easy to moderate

Maps – at the trailhead, follow blue hiker markers –  PDF Map

Facilities – parking lot, outhouse, camping, swimming, park store

Highlights – views of lake and farms

Trail Fee – pay at gate – $8 cyclist if you ride in or $14 per car

Phone – 1-866-668-2267

Website – Fanshawe Conservation 

Similar Trails – Ganaraska, Minnesing, Wildwood

Local Clubs –  London Cycling Club (have not found a MTB club yet)

Access – Fanshawe Conservation Area, 1424 Clarke Rd., London – Drive past the front gate, and park by the dam, the trailhead is near the treeline. Also if you are camping there you can catch the trail loop nearby.

 Fanshawe Conservation Area has a large loop that circles on the banks of the reservoir. This is an easy but long cross-country style ride at 22 km.

Most of the single track is a hiker’s path that is rather straight with smooth soil and the odd root or rock. Inclines are short hills and not too steep for any seasoned rider to manage.

A scenic ride that is ever changing as you circle the reservoir. This can be a fast ride if you like it that way, or a slower family outing, though a bit long for kids.

What this loop does not have, is a shortcut, so are you up for 20+ km? If you have to double back, please let riders pass.

Follow the blue diamond hiker symbols as you go around and you can’t get lost.

Cyclists are asked to alternate directions depending on the day. [clockwise on even numbered days, counter-clockwise on odd]

Expect to ride a few sections on paved side roads – over the dam, past the camping area and behind two golf courses.

There were 4 Black Diamond side loops (two are not on the map) that are a little bit harder and…

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