When I first rolled my bike onto Kingston’s waterfront, the city felt different to me. Kingston has always been a historic gem—its limestone buildings, bustling markets, and lively festivals—but exploring it on two wheels gave me an entirely new perspective. Cycling along Lake Ontario’s edge, with the breeze tugging at my jacket and the sound of waves lapping against the shore, I felt free, almost weightless. The city opened itself up in ways that walking or driving simply couldn’t match.
This article is my personal journey through Kingston’s most rewarding waterfront trails—paths that aren’t just for cyclists, but for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s natural beauty. I’ll share where I went, what I experienced, and all the practical details you’ll need if you want to experience these routes yourself.
The Waterfront Pathway
The Waterfront Pathway is Kingston’s signature cycling trail. It runs roughly 8 kilometers along Lake Ontario, stretching from Lake Ontario Park (920 King Street West) through downtown Kingston and toward the eastern neighborhoods.
Why I Love It
What struck me most about this trail was its seamless blend of city and nature. One moment, I was pedaling past families picnicking in Lake Ontario Park, with the smell of barbecues in the air and children darting across the grass, and the next I was weaving through limestone-lined streets near Confederation Basin, where historic buildings seemed to watch silently over the harbor.
The path hugged the lake for much of its length, and I often stopped to sit on benches, watching sailboats drift lazily in and out of the harbor. There’s something about the lake’s rhythm—the steady lap of waves against the shore—that made me want to slow down and savor the ride instead of racing through. On breezy afternoons, the water shimmered with light, and on quiet mornings, the mist created a dreamy veil over the skyline.
I remember one particular evening when the sun set in a blaze of orange and purple, the silhouettes of masts rising like a forest of thin trees against the glowing horizon. My bike sat beside me, and I felt lucky to have stumbled upon such a simple yet extraordinary view, all while riding a free, public trail.
Features and Highlights
- Lake Ontario Park: This is often the starting point of my ride. It’s spacious, family-friendly, and equipped with restrooms, picnic areas, and even a splash pad for kids in summer. I’ve stopped here with friends more than once, locking our bikes and enjoying an impromptu picnic by the lake. Entry is free, though parking can cost CAD $2–$4 per hour.
- Breakwater Park (King Street West): Renovated in recent years, this park has become one of Kingston’s most lively summer gathering spots. Swimmers wade into the clear water, fitness enthusiasts use outdoor equipment, and joggers zip past. I like to pause here, sit on the wide boardwalks, and watch paddleboarders glide by. The energy is contagious.
- Confederation Park (Ontario Street, downtown): By the time I reach downtown, the trail feels almost festive. Confederation Park is alive with buskers, food vendors, and musicians—especially on weekends. It’s also just steps from Kingston’s City Hall, which makes for a stunning backdrop when lit at night.
Cycling this route gave me countless little joys—like spotting ducks diving for fish, hearing the laughter of families scattered across picnic blankets, or seeing the evening sun reflect like liquid gold across the lake.
Practical Details
- Cost: The pathway is completely free to ride. Parking at trailheads costs around CAD $10–$15 per day in peak season, though if you stay at a hotel near the waterfront, you can often avoid parking fees entirely.
- Booking Tips: No reservations are required for the trail itself, but if you’re traveling from outside Kingston, it’s smart to book accommodation nearby. Platforms like Expedia.ca and Booking.com often offer package deals combining hotels close to the lake with discounts on flights. I’ve found waterfront hotels book up quickly in July and August, so early planning pays off.
- Advice: Bring water and sunscreen in summer. The lake breeze can be deceptive—you’ll feel cool but still get sunburned. I also recommend cycling early in the morning or at golden hour in the evening for the most magical views.
Lemoine Point Conservation Area
Located at 1440 Coverdale Drive, Lemoine Point is a 136-hectare conservation area southwest of Kingston. While not exclusively a waterfront trail, its lakeside sections made it one of my favorite cycling escapes.
My Personal Ride
The moment I entered, I noticed the shift in atmosphere. The city noises disappeared, replaced by the rustle of leaves and distant bird calls. It felt like stepping into a different world, one that belonged more to the deer, owls, and butterflies than to people.
I followed a gravel path that curved gently toward the shoreline, where I caught breathtaking views of Lake Ontario’s expanse. The water here felt different than downtown—it was calmer, quieter, framed by reeds and trees instead of stone walls and piers. The trails are mostly flat and well-maintained, making it easy to keep a steady rhythm while still pausing to admire wildflowers swaying in the breeze or to snap a photo of a heron lifting gracefully into the sky.
One of my most memorable rides here was during late summer, when goldenrod and Queen Anne’s lace colored the meadows. The air was filled with the sweet smell of pine, and a cool breeze swept in from the lake.I remember stopping at a bench with my thermos of coffee, listening to the waves and the soft chirping of crickets—a simple moment that felt restorative.
Why It Stands Out
- Diverse landscapes: Within one loop, I rode through marshlands alive with frogs, shaded woodlands that felt like natural cathedrals, and open stretches of shoreline offering uninterrupted lake views.
- Wildlife: I spotted deer grazing near the tree line, red squirrels darting across the path, and countless songbirds. Birdwatchers often carry binoculars here; I once met a couple who had driven from Ottawa just to spot a rare warbler.
- Accessibility: The trails are free to access and suitable for all skill levels, whether you’re cycling, walking, or jogging. Families with strollers share the paths with seasoned cyclists, and the wide trails make it easy for everyone to coexist.
Practical Details
Advice: Bring bug spray, especially in late summer evenings when mosquitos are active. If you’re riding in spring or fall, wear layers; the shaded woodland paths can be cooler than the open lakeshore.
Cost: Entry is free. Parking costs around CAD $5 per vehicle, which feels like a small contribution to preserving such a peaceful oasis.
Booking: No reservations are needed, but I often pair my visit with a meal afterward. For that, OpenTable.ca is handy—I’ve booked everything from casual diners to upscale restaurants in Kingston directly after my ride.
Cataraqui Trail
The Cataraqui Trail isn’t confined to Kingston alone—it’s a 104-kilometer trail stretching from Strathcona to Smiths Falls. The Kingston section is particularly popular for cyclists seeking longer rides.
My Ride Experience
I began my ride near Sydenham Road, where the gravel path cut through open fields and shady stretches of woodland. Unlike the Waterfront Pathway, this trail felt wilder, more remote. I rarely passed other cyclists, and there was a meditative quality to pedaling in near solitude. Occasionally, the trail would intersect with roads, but the signage made navigation easy.
Highlights
- Rural scenery: Farmhouses, meadows, and rolling hills.
- Historic bridges: Crossing old railway bridges added charm to the ride.
- Flexibility: You can cycle just a short section or commit to a multi-day trip.
Practical Details
- Cost: Free to use. Parking at access points can cost CAD $5–$10.
- Booking Platforms: If you’re tackling longer stretches, I recommend booking accommodations in advance through Airbnb.ca or Hotels.com.
- Advice: Pack snacks and water—services along the trail are limited.
The K&P Trail
The Kingston & Pembroke (K&P) Trail starts in downtown Kingston near Douglas R. Fluhrer Park (30 Ordnance Street) and stretches northward for over 15 kilometers before connecting with rural sections.
My Experience
I loved this trail for its versatility. Beginning in the heart of the city, I cycled past murals and industrial relics, only to find myself in quiet woodlands minutes later. The blend of urban and natural landscapes made it a photographer’s dream.
Why It’s Special
- Urban-to-rural transition: Few trails offer such a stark yet seamless shift.
- Accessibility: Wide paths suitable for cycling, jogging, and walking.
- History: The trail follows a former railway line, with interpretive signs explaining its past.
Practical Details
- Cost: Free, with free parking near downtown trailheads.
- Booking: No reservations, but nearby accommodations through Expedia.ca or Booking.com can make planning easy.
- Advice: If riding in summer, start early in the morning to avoid midday heat and heavier foot traffic downtown.
Cycling-Friendly Stops Along the Way
Part of the magic of cycling Kingston’s waterfront is the opportunity to stop at cafés, restaurants, and cultural attractions along the route.
- Juniper Café (370 King Street West): Right on the waterfront, with great coffee and pastries. Perfect mid-ride stop. Reserve seating during weekends via OpenTable.
- Kingston Penitentiary Tours (560 King Street West): Just steps from the Waterfront Pathway. Tickets can be booked through KingstonPenTours.com, usually around CAD $40.
- Fort Henry National Historic Site (1 Fort Henry Drive): A detour from downtown but worth it. Tickets through Parks Canada, about CAD $20.
Thoughts from the Saddle
Every trail I cycled in Kingston revealed a different side of the city: the cultural pulse of the Waterfront Pathway, the wilderness of Lemoine Point, the solitude of Cataraqui, and the history of the K&P Trail. Together, they created a patchwork of experiences that left me both exhausted and exhilarated.
When I planned my trip, I leaned on platforms like Expedia.ca for flights and hotels, OpenTable.ca for restaurant bookings, and Parks Canada or Ticketmaster.ca for attraction tickets. Having everything arranged beforehand meant I could focus fully on the ride, the scenery, and the little surprises that came with every turn of the pedal.
Cycling Kingston’s waterfront isn’t just about exercise—it’s about connection. Connection with the city’s history, its people, and with the natural beauty that defines this corner of Ontario. For me, these rides weren’t just trails on a map—they were pathways into the very soul of Kingston.
