Montreal is one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America, and for students, it’s a dream come true. Whether you're commuting to campus, looking for a fun way to explore the city, or just want to squeeze in some exercise between classes, Montreal's network of cycling paths makes it easy. With safe, scenic, and accessible routes that wind through parks, along rivers, and past some of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods, hopping on a bike is one of the best ways to experience life in Montreal.

So grab your helmet, and let's dive into the best biking trails in Montreal for students.

Why Biking in Montreal Is a Smart Move for Students

First things first—why bike?

For students, the benefits are endless. It’s affordable (compared to owning a car or taking public transport daily), great for your physical and mental health, and a more sustainable way to get around. Montreal’s bike-friendly infrastructure includes hundreds of kilometres of designated bike lanes, and during warmer months, BIXI bikes are everywhere. Whether you own or rent a bike, the city is designed to make cycling safe and straightforward.

1. Lachine Canal Bike Path

Let’s start with a classic.

The Lachine Canal bike path is a favourite among locals for a good reason. This 14-kilometre stretch runs from the Old Port to Lachine and offers a smooth ride along a historic canal. You’ll pass through neighbourhoods like Griffintown and Saint-Henri, full of student-friendly cafés and hangout spots.

Need a break? Stop at Atwater Market for fresh snacks or just chill by the water. It’s the perfect route if you're new to the city or want to soak in the scenery.

2. Mount Royal (Olmsted Path)

Mount Royal is calling if you’re up for a bit of a workout.

The main bike path—Olmsted Road—is a 9-kilometre loop that winds gently up to the Kondiaronk Belvedere, one of the best lookout spots in the city. Along the way, you’ll pass Beaver Lake and Mount Royal Chalet. It’s peaceful, green, and worth the climb.

While it’s not as easy as the canal, the reward is a panoramic view of downtown Montreal—perfect for a study break selfie or just clearing your head.

3. Parc Jean-Drapeau

Just across the water from downtown sits Parc Jean-Drapeau, located on two islands: Île Sainte-Hélène and Île Notre-Dame.

You’ll find more than 25 km of bike trails here, including a loop around the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, a racetrack used for the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. Yes, you can ride your bike on a real racetrack.

In addition, the park has green space, skyline views, and spots for picnics or relaxing. Plus, it’s a quick ride or metro trip from downtown, so visiting between classes or weekends is easy.

4. Maisonneuve Park

Maisonneuve Park is a hidden gem if you’re studying at or near UQAM, Université de Montréal, or the Botanical Garden.

This 80-hectare park has a peaceful 3.1 km bike loop, perfect for short rides or unwinding. It’s right next to the Montreal Botanical Garden and Olympic Stadium, which are also worth a visit.

The park is open year-round, and in the summer, it’s a hotspot for BBQs, Frisbee, and casual hangouts with friends.

🔗 Learn more about Maisonneuve Park

5. Îles-de-Boucherville National Park

Want to get out of the city without going too far?

Îles-de-Boucherville National Park is a series of small islands located just east of Montreal. It offers around 20 kilometres of bike paths through forests, fields, and wetlands. The ride is flat, making it great for all skill levels.

You can spot deer, rent a kayak, or enjoy nature at your own pace. It’s a great weekend trip, especially when you want a break from the city’s buzz.

🔗 Plan your visit to Îles-de-Boucherville

Biking Tips for Students

Before you set off, keep these things in mind:

• Safety first: Always wear a helmet and follow local traffic rules.
• Bike maintenance: Check your tires, brakes, and gears regularly. A quick tune-up can save you from big problems later.
• Use BIXI: Don’t have a bike? No worries. Montreal’s BIXI bike-sharing system is super student-friendly and has stations all over the city. Check out BIXI Montreal here.
• Be weather-ready: Montreal weather can change fast. Bring a rain jacket and dress in layers if you're out for a long ride.
• Get a good lock: Sadly, bike theft happens. Invest in a sturdy lock and park your bike in well-lit, secure areas.

Local Events and Community Rides

Montreal has a buzzing bike culture, and students can quickly get involved. Look out for events like Tour de l’Île, organized by Vélo Québec, or community rides hosted by local cycling clubs.

Riding in a group can be fun, as can meeting people, exploring new routes, and learning the best shortcuts around the city.

Getting to Trails from Campus

Most trails are easily accessible from Montreal's major schools:

• Concordia University and McGill University are just minutes from the Lachine Canal and Mount Royal.
• UQAM is close to Maisonneuve Park and has easy metro access to Parc Jean-Drapeau.
• Université de Montréal students can easily reach Mount Royal and Outremont bike paths.

Montreal’s public transport system also supports bikes, especially during non-rush hours, so getting to a trail is rarely a hassle.

Final Thoughts

Biking in Montreal isn’t just a way to get from point A to B—it’s a whole experience. From scenic water routes to peaceful parks and urban loops, there's a trail for every type of student. It’s budget-friendly, stress-relieving, and a fantastic way to fall in love with this city.

So, hop on a bike and start exploring next time the sun’s out and your schedule's light. Montreal’s best trails are waiting for you.