Saturday Morning 'Rise & Shine' Ride

by Martha Scott

A great way to kick off the weekend, this 35 km ride promises plenty of pleasing scenery. With other bleary-eyed cyclists you'll explore the many picturesque pathways around Toronto including those of the Martin Goodman Trail, Don Trail, Taylor Creek Park, Leslie Street Spit, Humber Trail, Sunnybrook Park, Edward's Gardens, and more. And with a (prompt) 9:30 a.m. departure you'll miss the throngs that crowd onto the pathways in the afternoon.

The Easy Roller/Tourist pace is brisk enough to help maintain or increase fitness levels (for the average person) but also allow for some friendly intermingling. You'll meet those who share a passion for cycling like the 'morning masochists' who enjoy the challenge provided by the odd optional hill. Other riders aren't quite as keen hill-climbers and instead are just looking forward to a little more socializing along with their cup of caffeine at the après-ride stop.

Done by noon the ride allows ample time to get your Saturday errands done, or you may instead choose to relax over a leisurely lunch with some of your new biking buddies. The start point of the ride is often The Boardwalk BBQ Pub (formerly The Boardwalk Café) in the Eastern Beaches (Lakeshore Blvd, east of Coxwell, parking costs $5 at the Woodbine Beach parking lot, but there is free parking on Coxwell Ave). The start point does vary so be sure to check this website the week of the ride. Non-members are always welcome - as long as you pay the $5 ride fee and wear a helmet (bring some water too). Come out often enough and you'll soon become one of the 'regulars' — those zombie-like cyclists who can manoeuvre the pathways with their eyes seemingly closed!

...with more rides to come!