Plan Your Ultimate Ride in Ontario’s Highlands: A Guide for US Riders
Welcome, US riders! If you’re planning a motorcycle adventure across the border, Ontario’s Highlands is calling. Just a short trip from New York and Pennsylvania, this biker-friendly destination offers thrilling roads, unforgettable scenery, and warm hospitality. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your ride.
Free Ride the Highlands maps are a must-have for riders, and it’s no wonder they roll out fast each year. Packed with detailed information, these maps are the ultimate road companion for your saddlebag. They showcase the very best of Ride the Highlands, featuring four themed routes, local rides, and our top 10 must-ride roads. Updated annually, the map ensures you’re always in the know with the latest attractions, repair shops, and gas stations. Whether you’re planning your next adventure or navigating on the go, this resource has you covered.
Riding in Canada: Tips for Crossing the Border
Before you hit the open road, make sure you’re ready to cross the border smoothly:
- Bring Your Passport: To cross the border into Canada, ensure you have valid documentation.
- Helmets Are Mandatory: All riders and passengers must wear a DOT-approved helmet while riding in Canada.
- Mind the Metrics: Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (100 km/h is roughly 60 mph).
Money and Exchange Rates
Make your dollars go the extra mile. The favorable exchange rate means your US dollars go further in Canada, giving you more value for dining, accommodations, and more. Here are a few tips to make the most of your money:
- Bring Some Cash: We’ve been told our colorful bills look like Monopoly money. Some food stops and attractions might only accept cash, so having Canadian currency on hand is helpful.
- Most Credit Cards Accepted: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, while chain hotels may also accept AMEX. Check ahead for payment options.
What Makes Ontario’s Highlands Unique?
Get ready for a ride unlike any other. Ontario’s Highlands offers:
- Epic Scenery: Cruise through breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and dense forests.
- Thrilling Curves: Tackle roads designed for adventure, with twists and turns that keep the ride exciting.
- Charming Small Towns: Discover local diners, boutique shops, and friendly communities.
- Valley Hospitality: Canadian kindness is legendary, but in the Highlands, it comes with a local flair that’s unforgettable.
Plan with Interactive Route Tools
Navigate your way through Ontario’s Highlands using the interactive route planning tools on our website. These highlight:
- Must See Locations: From panoramic lookouts to peaceful lakeside spots.
- Motorcycle-Friendly Attractions: Stops specifically tailored for riders.
- Accommodations and Dining: Vetted businesses that welcome bikers, many offering convenient motorcycle parking.
- Repair Shops: Let’s face it—sometimes, sh!t happens. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of trusted repair shops staffed by great folks who can get you back in the saddle fast.
Top 10 Roads to Ride in Ontario’s Highlands
Ontario’s Highlands’ roads are all exceptional riding experiences, but we want to make sure you don’t miss the best the Highlands has to offer. Each Top 10 Road has been selected under one basic condition – it makes you giggle with glee while carving your way along on your bike.
These roads were handcrafted for you, each road offering a unique combination of twists, scenery, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Take Home a Free Souvenir
Every great ride deserves a keepsake. Each year, Ride the Highlands hands out a free souvenir as a thank you to our riders, and gives you something special to commemorate your journey. This year to remember your Ride the Highlands adventure, we are giving riders the opportunity to collect patches for each of our main routes. Pick up locations will be announced in April. To ensure you don’t miss this announcement, subscribe to our newsletter.
Insider Tips for a Great Ride
- Trip Planning and Itineraries: For everything Ride the Highlands, check out our Insider’s Cut to Ride the Highlands blog.
- Ride in Spring for Solitude: Springtime offers quiet roads and great opportunities to see the spring run-off, though you may encounter some bugs in this rural area.
- Chase Fall Colors: The autumn season is breathtaking, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows transforming the landscape. Check out these blogs for great trip ideas.
- Fuel Up Early: Mind the time. In some of our more rural areas, gas stations may close early, so it’s wise to fill up by 6 p.m.
Ready to Ride?
Ontario’s Highlands is the ultimate destination for US riders looking for adventure, stunning scenery, and unbeatable hospitality. Pack your bags, fuel up your bike, and get ready to experience the ride of a lifetime. See you on the road!
