Palgrave – MTB / Park Trail

Length – 22 km

70% singletrack MTB trail
20% hiking trail
10% doubletrack access roads

Elevation – Rather hilly on the singletrack MTB trail, but it flows well; not as much climbing for wider forest paths—riding counter-clockwise is easier

Terrain – Smooth soil with some sandy spots and gravel, can be muddy; a few roots and rock piles; log hops, structures and berms

Skill – Intermediate

Traffic – Typically bicyclists and hikers; quiet during the week and light on weekends

Maps – Found at trailhead; signposts along the route, but I felt they were too varied

Facilities – There are three parking lots, but I recommend the Duffy Lane entrance

Highlights – Picturesque ponds, the longest continuous singletrack loop in the area

Trail Fee – Free

Phone – 416 661 6600

Website – Toronto Regional Conservation Area

Similar Trails – Albion Hills, Glen Major, Dufferin Forest

Local Club – Caledon Cycle Club

Access – Drive north 11 km past Bolton on Highway 50—just beyond Albion Hills. Turn west on Patterson Side Rd., and then north up to 17580 Duffy’s Lane for 2 km. Look for the parking lot down the road, on the right and just past the curve.

Palgrave Forest offers MTB riders near Toronto’s west side some extra trail in which to let loose. This somewhat secret spot has plenty of long and hilly cross-country-type tracks to really get your legs burning.

This intense, fast cardio ride consists mainly of one continuous loop. I find it keeps getting better over the years, as racers have cut better trails and signs are now popping up to clarify what was once a somewhat confusing forest trail. (Although at times it still is.)

The terrain consists mainly of black loam soil that does get a little muddy/slippery after a rain. There are also a few sandy patches of subsoil.

Due to tree farming, much of the forest is straight rows of pine mixed with native trees. As a result, there are some open areas, as well as a pond.

Expect plenty of winding climbs, but you’ll be rewarded with quick bombers down (making this place a favourite!).

This continuous, uninterrupted trail is unusual, as most MTB areas have trails which intersect too frequently. Here, once you get going, you rarely have to stop to sort out which way to turn. Amen!

With switchbacks and berms, most of this mega-loop flows well. I recommend you ride it counter-clockwise: it’s easier and flows better. A few simple structures, rock piles, and logs keep it interesting, with alternate easy outs if you are not up for them. Just don’t get too cocky, as there can be new features that could surprise you.

An easier ride in the woods for beginners would be to stick to the wide and straight old hiking paths, which will give you about 9 km on the…

Read more of this review in my MTB guidebook with topo maps and riding tips, plus 54 others. Available as an eBook or paperback.