Ridout-Bigwind Rugged Ramble

• When to go: Ideally between spring and late fall, but be aware of the core bug seasons. Black flies (gnats) in late spring and deer flies in early summer can be a nuisance. 
• Some sections may be quite muddy in early spring or after multiple days of rain.
• Although most of the route is manageable with a modern gravel bike on 47s, there’s a really rugged section that will appeal to riders who are not afraid to get dirty or hike-a-bike some gnarly terrain. Because of this, the route is best suited to a mountain bike, fat bike, or drop-bar bike with wide bars and 50mm tires at a minimum.
• Free parking is available at an area formerly used for staging logging equipment at the suggested starting point. An alternative parking location can be found at the community center in Baysville, but starting there changes the dynamic of the route. 
• This route traverses backcountry, so beware of bears and moose. Attacks are rare, but riders should be aware of their surroundings and prepared with knowledge of how to avoid or deescalate wildlife confrontations.
• Be aware that all the trails and dirt roads are designated ATV routes and see a lot of ATV traffic throughout the summer months. Be sure to give ATVers adequate space to pass you (it’s worth mentioning that most ATVers are quite friendly and willing to provide help if needed). 
• There is cellular service throughout most of the route, but it can be patchy in the northwest section.

• Campsites are located on Crown land and are free to use with no reservation required. Keep in mind that sites accessible to motor vehicles are usually occupied just before the start of the weekend, so it’s best to aim for sites that are not right off a road, especially during July and August.
• Most campsites have a small fire pit left behind from previous campers. Before building a fire, ensure there is not a fire ban in place by checking the Lake of Bays Fire department website.
• The campsites along the “water trails” are the cleanest and least used, and it’s worth riding the rugged trails to access them. 

• There are plenty of freshwater lakes and streams along the way to restock water. Beware, however, that water filtration is necessary to prevent illness from waterborne bacteria. 
• Not far from the route is Baysville and the Lake-of-Bays craft brewery. Just a 10-kilometer out-and-back, riders can enjoy a cold pint (or two) on their spacious outdoor patio or grab canned brews to go.
• Also in Baysville are food trucks serving typical greasy goodness with a few healthier options on the menu. 
• There are no stores or food vendors along the route, so bring enough food and snacks to keep you energized. 

• If following the route as provided, some may find the first half quite challenging—hence the “Rugged” in the name. Logging roads can get water-logged after heavy rainfall, and the ATV trails are rocky in sections. This section can be bypassed, but the alternative shortens the route significantly.
• The second half will be very manageable for riders accustomed to riding rough gravel roads, although there are a few spicy sections to be aware of.
• If you’re planning to camp at Pairo Lake or Carcass Lake, prepare for a knee-deep stream crossing. It’s well worth it for a nice, secluded camp spot. 
• During particularly dry periods, the Hindon Forest Access Road (north of Black River Road) can get quite dusty from passing vehicles. A Buff, bandana, or cloth mask would be useful to limit the inhalation of road dust if needed.  

Additional Resources

• The nearest bike shops are located in Bracebridge, including LivOutside, Neilson Bicycles, and Ecclestone Cycle. 
• Lake of Bays Brewery hours: lakeofbaysbrewing.ca
• Bigwind Provincial Park: ontarioparks.com
• To check for fire bans: lakeofbays.on.ca
• Watch the video documenting the trip here