How to ride with your children hassle-free

1. Tips and tricks

Riding with children

A bicycle is the first vehicle a child masters to help build a sense of autonomy. You can teach your child how to become a safe and responsible cyclist with some tips that will make your family rides safer.

Should you ride in front or behind your child?

When riding in the street with children, there are two ways to monitor them. You can ride behind the child to monitor their behaviour. This is a good position from which to advise them. You can also ride in front of them in order to forestall any impending danger (intersections, car doors, etc.).
It's up to you to choose depending on where you are riding, on your child's age and on how comfortable they are on their bike.

Street or sidewalk?

According to the Highway Safety Code, it's forbidden to ride on the sidewalks which are intended for pedestrians only. However, it is common practice for children to ride their bikes on the sidewalk. As long as they are riding at a reasonable speed (5-10 km/h), children 10 and under can usually ride on the sidewalk. Children 5 and under should avoid the streets and limit themselves to the alleyways, the parks and the sidewalks. Children 6-10 can also ride in bike paths and in quiet streets, if they have a good control of their bike.

How to make rides fun?

Being a child may be a distant memory for adults, but you're probably well aware that fun and games drive their motivation. To make the ride more enjoyable, set fun goals to reach such as going to the park, getting ice cream or visiting a friend.
Adjust the ride to the child's level of profienciency and gradually lengthen it. The longer the trip, the more surprise snacks you should plan for!

2. Activities and destinations

Family picnic

What could be more rewarding than a family meal at Fort Chambly in the summer? Getting there by bike, of course! Easily accessible from Montreal and the South Shore, this 12.5 km route winding through the Montérégie area will take you from Longueuil to Chambly.
Route Verte : La montée du chemin de Chambly

The family event you should not miss

The flagship event of Go Vélo Montréal festival, Tour de l'île de Montréal needs no introduction. About 25 000 cyclists take to the streets of the metropolis to cycle its 5 courses: 25 km, 50 km, 50 km express, 60 km and 100 km. You can't miss the festivities!
Check out the website for the latest updates.

Long sunny rides

Looking for a picturesque and safe place to stretch your legs with the kids? L'Estriade is just the ride for you. Located near Bromont and Granby, this 21 km route is entirely along a bike path. An opportunity for you to enjoy the peaceful landscape!
Route Verte : L’Estriade

Family weekend fun

Looking for a more upbeat ride? The P'tit Train du Nord is a 232 km track that runs along an old railway line between Bois-des-Filion and Mont-Laurier. It is the longest linear park in Canada and it offers activities in all four seasons. Remember to book your B&B in the Laurentians before departing.
Route Verte : Le parc linéaire du P’tit Train du Nord