wellness
Annex Cycling Routes Safe for Families and Beginners
Marked paths through Annex Park and along the Greenbelt Trail give new riders low-traffic options close to home.
How we reported this
Annex Park opened its 3.2-mile family loop on June 12, 2026, with dedicated bike lanes separated from vehicle traffic by raised curbs. The route starts at the park entrance on Maple Avenue and circles the central pond before returning via the new connector path to Elm Street.
Local wellness programs have expanded this summer as residents seek outdoor activities that fit busy schedules. The Annex Recreation Department reported a 28 percent rise in family fitness registrations between January and May compared with the same period last year. Parents cite safety concerns on regular streets as the main reason they delayed introducing children to cycling until protected routes appeared.
Two routes that stay off busy roads
The Greenbelt Trail begins at the west end of Annex Park and runs 4.1 miles north to the old railway underpass at River Road. The surface is packed gravel with mile markers and benches every half mile. A second option, the South Annex Connector, links the park to the community centre on Birch Lane through a series of quiet residential streets closed to through traffic after 9 a.m. on weekends. Both paths are maintained by the Annex Parks Board, which added lighting along the first mile of each route last month.
City data shows the average speed on Maple Avenue during morning hours reaches 34 miles per hour, while the protected loops keep rider speeds under 12 miles per hour. Rental bikes at the Annex Park kiosk cost $12 for two hours and include child seats and helmets. The Annex Cycling Club offers free Saturday morning orientations at 9 a.m. through August 30 for anyone who registers online before the previous Thursday.
Practical steps before the first ride
Check the daily trail report posted on the Annex Recreation website before heading out, especially after heavy rain. Arrive with water bottles and a basic repair kit; the kiosk stocks spare tubes for $8. Families new to the routes can join the next scheduled group ride on July 19, which starts at the Maple Avenue gate and covers the shorter pond loop in about 45 minutes. Riders should carry identification and a phone number for the park office in case of any issue.