The Algonquin Trail is part of the Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail system that covers nearly 300 kilometres from Smith Falls to near Mattawa. Similar to the Le Petit Train du Nord trail that runs from Montreal to Mount Laurier in Quebec this trail is built on a former railway line. Many years ago a group of us cycled the Le Petit Train du Nord. It was a great experience, my first cycling in Quebec. I remember thinking I need to get back to cycle in Quebec again.
The Ottawa Valley Recreational Trail system is the longest rail trail system in Canada. To me a rail trail means two things – a great hard packed base and minimal changes in elevation. Since trains could only tolerate a grade of less than 4% it is ideal for cycling long distances. Getting off road for a significant period with no traffic is a blessing. No traffic, no noise, no stress.
Picking up the trail between Deep River and Chalk River I spend the next two days cycling through to Smith’s Falls and the end point of that part of the OVRT.
The Rotary Ride for Kids 
Ha ha ha!
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