Name: Gracefield - Maniwaki
Start: 2023-07-29T10:00:00-04:00
End: 2023-07-29T16:00:00-04:00
Location: Véloroute des Draveurs

Please join us for a ride from **Gracefield** to **Maniwaki**. Total distance is 82km. Speeds will vary between 20 - 30 km/hr. The majority of this ride is on a paved bike path (**Véloroute des Draveurs**, part of the **Trans Canada Trail**). When we reach Farley (at the 28km mark), we will get off the bike path (which becomes a gravel path) and take the paved roads through the **Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nations Reserve** into Maniwaki. This is a no-drop ride.

There are no gravel sections on this route.

The route takes us along breathtaking scenery, including **Lac Blue Sea** where you can go for a dip on the way back if you like.

There's virtually no chance of getting lost on the bike path, so feel free to go at your own speed between Gracefield and Farley and back. However, between Farley and Maniwaki things get a bit more involved and you're advised to either stick with the group or familiarize yourself with the route (map, phone, bike GPS, etc). Wawashkeki Mikan and Tenagadino Mikan may look like paved roads on the map but are actually gravel roads and will be avoided.

Please note that even though we're cycling on a bike path, it does not mean you need to go slow; there are entire segments where you can cruise at whatever speed you choose. Also note that, even though there are no hills, the total elevation gain is 700m; for perspective, the total elevation gain from downtown Ottawa to Champlain Lookout and back is 740m.

**== Stops ==**
The bike path has numerous public washrooms along the way. When we reach Farley at the end of the paved bike path, we will stop near the final rest-stop and wait for everyone to catch up before hitting the open roads into Maniwaki.

When we reach Maniwaki, we will have a lunch break. There are a number of restaurants but I would recommend **Chez Mike's** because it is close to the water. Suggestions are welcome.

On the way back, feel free to stop and go for a swim or snack break at Lac Blue Sea near the 68km mark. There's a small beach. You would have only 16km to ride back to your car, and you can't get lost; there's only one bike path and there's a washroom/change-room at the parking lot.

**== Apres-Ride ==**
When you get back to Gracefield, you have two options:

* You can stay in town and have something to eat and drink there. **La Patatrie** (ice-cream, burgers, fries, poutine) and the **Resto Smoke'n Grill Burger Pub** (beer, pub fare) are a one-minute walk from the parking lot, and both have outdoor seating.
* You can head over to **Wayne's place** (see details below) for a BBQ, drinks, and some fun water sports (bring your swimwear).

If you do decide to head to Wayne's place, please indicate so in the comments section below so that he knows how many people (and cars) to expect.

**== Wayne's Place ==**
Wayne has generously offered to host a BBQ at his place. Thank you, Wayne!

His address is **1039 Chemin McDonald, Low, Quebec**. To get to his place drive south from Gracefield on HWY105, turn right on Chemin McDonald near Brennan's Hill, and continue on Chemin McDonald until you reach Wayne's place on Lac Cameron. Be aware that Chemin McDonald is a dirt road, with some rough sections.

There is an SAQ liquor store and a Metro grocery store within a short walk from the parking lot in Gracefield, in case you would like to pick something up before heading to Wayne's place.

**== Route https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43754388**

**== Parking ==**
This is a remote start; a 1hr 10min drive from downtown Ottawa. We will park at the **Véloroute des Draveurs** parking lot (see map), which has a public washroom.

Please arrive early so that you're ready to roll by 10am sharp.

**== Weather ==**
If the weather turns out to be unsuitable, this event will be moved or cancelled on the evening before the event.

**== Waiver ==**
By participating, you acknowledge and understand that the organizers are volunteers, and that you are completely and solely responsible for your own personal health and well-being. You acknowledge and understand that these meetup events involve inherent risks and dangers that could result in injury and even death, and that your participation is entirely at your own risk and liability.

Brian K

Cycling Ottawa-Gatineau En vélo!

Cycling Ottawa-Gatineau En vélo!

Gracefield - Maniwaki

Cycling Ottawa-Gatineau En vélo!

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