Check out the River Rally: Hop on your bikes!

Last year, I rediscovered the joys of cycling. And I’m really glad I did. I feel great when I’m in the saddle, even if my butt sometimes hurts! I love the pleasant feeling of being active. I love watching the scenery roll by as I pedal and taking in a deep breath of fresh air. It’s a joy rediscovered!

Since the return of summer, I’ve cycled many kilometers in Laval. What’s fascinating is that even though I’ve lived on the island for over 30 years, my bike rides keep revealing places I’ve never seen before. It’s worth noting that there are plenty of bike paths throughout the area. Personally, I have to admit that I love the bike lanes and trails that run along the Mille Îles River and the Prairies River, or those that lead to scenic overlooks of the water, nature, and anywhere I can admire wildlife.

One amazing activity that took me to some surprising places was when I participated in the River Rally.

What is the Rallye des rivières?

The River Rally is an initiative proposed by the Water Interpretation Centre (C.I.EAU) that aims to help people discover the unique features, history, and important role of the Mille Îles River and its tributaries in the region.

This scavenger hunt takes place across six municipalities (Laval, Terrebonne, Lorraine, Rosemère, Boisbriand, and Saint-Eustache) and challenges participants to find 13 markers located along the banks of the Mille Îles River. Each marker provides information about a different aspect of the river’s water.

For example:

• At marker 10, located at Berge Léonard-Éthier (7275 Dessureaux Street in the Saint-François neighborhood), the reason for the increased water flow is explained.
• At Stop 11 (Les Grandes Îles, Rue Maurice in the Saint-François neighborhood), we learn why the animal and plant biodiversity is so impressive on the Îles aux Vaches, Îles au Foin, and Île Saint-Pierre.
• At station 12of the Auteuil wastewater treatment plant (300 Terrasse Brissette), we are told where the sewage goes.

Each station displays a QR code for those who wish to obtain additional information. It’s a great way to learn more! Of course, you don’t have to complete the scavenger hunt in a single day. However, to get the most out of the activity, I suggest you pick up the hiker’s guidebook, which is available at the C.I.EAU in the heart of Old Sainte-Rose for $5.

This is also where you’ll find marker 1, known as “Berge des Baigneurs.”

One of my favorite stops on the Laval area rally is Checkpoint 13, named Berges Jacques-Cartier et Idéale, located at 130 Bérard Street in the Auteuil neighborhood. I was captivated by the forest trail leading to the river and by the waterfront. When I discovered this spot, I knew I’d be back with a chair and a good book, with the kids to go fishing, or on a bike for another little getaway.

Culinary breaks

Finally, between stops, I invite you to take a break for some delicious treats. Two wonderful places: Mam’zelle Joséphine and the Fromagerie du Vieux Saint-François.

Mam’zelle Joséphine is a chocolate shop located on Sainte-Rose Boulevard, right near Stop 1. There, you can stock up on chocolate treats and cool off with some homemade sorbet or an ice cream sandwich. It’s so (so…) good!

The Fromagerie du Vieux Saint-François is located on Boulevard des Mille-Îles and, as you might expect, in the Saint-François neighborhood. It offers an impressive variety of cheeses (about twenty) and other products made from goat’s milk. You definitely have to try the cheeses, but I also recommend trying the gelato. It’s a great way to cool off!

Read " No Choice but to Stop Pedaling: Must-Visit Bike Stops in Laval " for more suggestions on where to take a break.

Good reasons to get on your bike

When you decide to hop on your bike, you’re doing yourself a favor. As for me, it’s hard to resist the call of the derailleur these days. Cycling does my body good… and my mind, too.

I admit it’s also good for family bonding. When we go for a walk, I like to take the opportunity to have a picnic or visit some sights with the kids.

My suggestions:

• The Rivière-des-Mille-Îles Park where you’ll find the Exploration Center featuring a permanent exhibition dedicated to exploring the Rivière des Mille Îles, themed displays, aquariums, and vivariums.
• The Bernard-Landry Park, located in the heart of the Laval-des-Rapides neighborhood, features nearly 5 km of trails for getting active as well as a little slice of natural paradise.
• The Armand-Frappier Museum is currently hosting the exhibition “Eat! The Exhibition That Nourishes”
• The C.I.EAU (Water Interpretation Center) which highlights the importance of water in our lives.

Of course, don’t forget to bring your lock so you can secure your bike.

Finally, please note that to help you plan your route, you can pick up a map of the city’s cycling network at the Tourisme Laval Office. You can also plan a route on the La Route Verte website, the largest cycling network in North America. In Laval, La Route Verte stretches for just over 32 kilometers, and the Perry Island footbridge, located 2.1 kilometers from the Viau Bridge, provides direct access to Montreal.

We look forward to seeing you out on two wheels!