Signature Bike Routes in the Mighty Peace

The Mighty Peace is a destination built for exploration. With endless views, rolling terrain, river valleys, and a growing network of trails, it is a place where cyclists can experience the landscape at their own pace. From community trail systems to backcountry adventures, these signature bike routes showcase some of the best ways to explore the rivers, forests, and viewpoints that make the region unique.

1. Shaftesbury Trail

Starting Point: Town of Peace River | Access: Highway 684 / Shaftesbury Trail

The Shaftesbury Trail offers one of the most unique cycling experiences in the Mighty Peace, combining a river crossing, historic sites, scenic valley views, and backcountry adventure. This route can be shortened or lengthen depending on your preference.

Before setting out on your adventure, make Peace River Adventures Campground your home base in the Town of Peace River. Located close to the trail networks and local attractions, the campground offers a convenient place to stay before exploring the region. Peace River Adventures also offers bike and e-bike rentals, as well as shuttle services if needed, making it easier to plan your cycling adventure.

Starting in the Town of Peace River, riders can follow routes toward the Shaftesbury Trail and make their way into the Peace River Wildlands. The journey itself is part of the experience, with opportunities to stop and explore some of the region’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks along the way.

To access the Shaftesbury Trail, riders can travel from the Town of Peace River and Highway 684 can be accessed on the west side of the Peace River bridge.

Before heading into the backcountry, take time to explore the history that shaped this landscape:

Stops Along The Way:

Mackenzie Cairn National Historic Site

Located along the Shaftesbury Trail, the Mackenzie Cairn commemorates the historic journey of Alexander Mackenzie, who overwintered at Fort Fork in 1793 before beginning his expedition to the Pacific Ocean. Built in 1929, the cairn honours the Fort Fork trading post and the beginning of this important chapter in Canadian exploration history. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Peace River Valley and learn more through interpretive displays on-site.

Mackenzie Cairn National Historic Site

Mackenzie Cairn National Historic Site

For riders looking to make this into a longer adventure, Strong Creek Park provides a great place to stop, recharge, or extend your stay. Located near the Peace River, the park offers camping, river access, fishing opportunities, and a playground. It is a great option for cyclists looking to slow down and spend more time exploring the valley.

Continue toward the Shaftesbury Ferry — a highlight of this route and an adventure all on its own.

The Shaftesbury Ferry is one of only six ferries operated by Alberta Transportation and provides a unique way to cross the mighty Peace River. The 325-metre crossing takes approximately five minutes and offers incredible views of the river valley, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The ferry operates seasonally from May through October and is free for travellers, including cyclists.

Once across the river, riders can continue exploring the Tangent Park area and access additional trails leading into the Peace River Wildlands. These trails can access the Mouth of the Smoky River and the Smoky River Lookout.

For those looking to extend their adventure, Tangent Park provides another basecamp option with camping, showers, group sites, and nearby hiking and horseback riding trails.

The Shaftesbury Trail route is more than just a bike ride it is a journey through the landscapes, stories, and waterways that have shaped the Mighty Peace for generations.

2. Peace River Wildlands

Starting Point: Shaftesbury Ferry | MD of Peace

Park at the Shaftesbury Ferry, cross the Peace River, and enter the Peace River Wildlands a vast area of trails where riders can experience the rugged beauty of the Mighty Peace from a completely different perspective.

The Peace River Wildlands sits within one of Alberta’s most spectacular river landscapes, where the mighty Peace River winds through deep valleys, forests, and natural habitats. The Peace River is one of the largest rivers in Alberta, flowing through the region and shaping the landscape, history, and communities that surround it. The nearby Smoky River is another defining feature of the region, joining the Peace River at one of the most impressive natural meeting points in the area.

Mackenzie Lookout - Peace River Wildlands

Riders can choose their own adventure with routes ranging from scenic riverside rides to more challenging backcountry excursions. Depending on your route choice, you can explore river valleys, climb to incredible viewpoints, or ride through the quiet wilderness where wildlife and wide-open landscapes surround you.

One route takes riders toward the mouth of the Smoky River, where the Smoky River meets the Peace River. At this incredible spot you can swim and put your toes in the river where two major waterways meet that have shaped the Mighty Peace for thousands of years. To access this trail, cross the Shaftesbury Ferry and turn left after passing Tangent Park Campground. Continue along the river until you reach the trailhead that leads toward the mouth of the Smoky River.

Mouth of the Smoky River Trailhead

56.156797, -117.404450

For those looking for a more challenging ride, continue toward the Smoky River Lookout. This route includes a steep climb, but the reward is an incredible panoramic view overlooking the Smoky River Valley below. The ridgeline trail provides a unique perspective of the landscape, showcasing the dramatic valleys and waterways that make this area so special.

To access the Smoky River Lookout, cross the Shaftesbury Ferry, turn left after Tangent Park Campground, then turn right at:
Access to both trails: 56.132262, -117.455492

Ridgeline Trail: 56.122401, -117.420801
Smoky River Lookout: 56.123151, -117.417111
There are options to shorten or lengthen your ride depending on where you choose to park and how much of the Wildlands you want to explore.

This is where the Mighty Peace truly feels wild — a place where the Peace and Smoky Rivers tell the story of the landscape, and where every ride offers a new perspective of the valleys, forests, and waterways that make this region unforgettable.

3. Murphy Flats

Starting Point: Town of Peace River

For those looking for a full-day adventure, begin your ride in the Town of Peace River and make your way up Judah Hill before following the signs that lead you down into the beautiful Smoky River Valley and toward Murphy Flats.

The journey to Murphy Flats offers incredible views as you transition from the community into the surrounding wilderness. Once you arrive, take time to explore the area, relax by the river, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Murphy Flats is a great destination for a day trip, with picnic tables, free firewood, and outhouses available for visitors to use.

For experienced adventurers, this route offers the opportunity to combine two incredible Mighty Peace experiences, cycling and paddling. Pack your bikeraft and make your way down the Smoky River, floating through the valley before continuing onto the Peace River and returning to the Town of Peace River by water. This unique journey allows you to experience the landscape from both land and river, offering a completely different perspective of the valley. Once you reach the Lower West Peace Boat Launch, finish your adventure with a short bike ride to the Peace River Adventures Campground, where you can relax, spend the night, and start planning your next Mighty Peace adventure.

Prefer a shorter ride? Riders can park closer to Murphy Flats and create a shorter route while still enjoying everything this area has to offer. Once in the area, there are also countless trails to explore within the Peace River Wildland Provincial Park, offering options for riders of different skill levels and adventure styles.

Murphy Flats showcases exactly what makes the Mighty Peace such a special destination, the ability to travel through dramatic river valleys, explore wild landscapes, and combine land and water adventures into one unforgettable experience.

4. Andrews Homestead Trail

Starting Point: Town of Peace River or Andrews Homestead Trailhead

The Andrews Homestead Trail offers a scenic connection between the Town of Peace River and Murphy Flats, taking riders through the peaceful landscapes of the Smoky River Valley. Riders can begin their adventure in the Town of Peace River or park directly at the trailhead and follow the route as it winds through the valley toward the river.

Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the Smoky River, with opportunities to stop at the lookout and take in the scenery from a memorial bench overlooking the valley. This is a great place to slow down, enjoy the surroundings, and appreciate the natural beauty that makes this area so special.

Once you reach Murphy Flats, spend the day exploring the river valley, enjoy a picnic by the water, or extend your adventure by combining cycling and paddling. Experienced riders can bring their bikeraft and float the Smoky River from Murphy Flats to the Lower West Peace Boat Launch, creating a unique land-and-water journey through the heart of the Mighty Peace. Or have Peace River Adventures pick up your bikes and switch you for paddle equipment to paddle down the Smoky River to the Lower West Peace Boat Launch.

This route offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and river adventure, making it a favourite for those looking to explore the Mighty Peace beyond the pavement.

5. Misery Mountain Trail Network

Starting Point: Town of Peace River

Located right in the Town of Peace River, Misery Mountain offers a variety of trails for riders looking for views, adventure, and convenience.

Explore the network of trails across the hill while taking in incredible views of the Peace and Smoky Rivers coming together at the confluence below. The trail system connects into the community, making it easy to finish your ride with a meal, coffee, or a stroll through town.

Mountain bikers head back up Misery Mountain.

Whether you are looking for a quick ride close to town or a longer adventure through the valley, Misery Mountain is a must-visit destination for cyclists exploring the Mighty Peace.

6. Pat’s Creek Interpretive Trail

Starting Point: Rendez Vous RV Park or the Town of Peace River / Pat’s Creek Trail Access

The Pat’s Creek Interpretive Trail offers a steep cycling experience depending on which way you are going. This trail is through an old highway with lots of history within Northern Sunrise County, with the opportunity to explore the natural and cultural features of the Pat’s Creek Valley.

Visitors can make Rendez Vous RV Park their home base and access the trail network that connects riders into the Town of Peace River. This provides a great option for cyclists looking to camp nearby while still having access to local amenities, restaurants, and services.

This 6.8 km out-and-back trail is suitable for riders of various skill levels and offers a chance to slow down and enjoy the surrounding landscape. The trail follows Pat’s Creek, providing beautiful views of the river valley, rolling hills, and natural surroundings. Riders can expect a relaxed ride that takes approximately an hour and forty-five minutes to fully explore and enjoy.

Throughout the route, interpretive signage shares stories about the area’s landscape, history, and natural features, making this more than just a bike ride it is an opportunity to connect with the region and learn along the way.

Some sections of the trail can be a bit rough depending on conditions, but the route remains accessible for riders looking for a scenic adventure. This trail is a reminder that some of the best adventures in the Mighty Peace are found by slowing down, exploring the valley, and taking the time to discover the stories along the way.

7. Figure Eight Lake Trail

Starting Point: Figure Eight Lake Recreation Area

Figure Eight Lake Trail is a favourite among locals and offers a peaceful, scenic ride surrounded by nature. This 3.7 km route is a great option for families, casual riders, and anyone looking to enjoy a slower-paced adventure through the beautiful landscapes of the Mighty Peace.

The trail winds through towering trees and alongside the lake, offering beautiful views and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. With a few small inclines throughout the route, riders can enjoy a bit of variety while still keeping the ride accessible for different skill levels.

Keep your eyes open as you explore, as Figure Eight Lake is a great location for wildlife viewing and bird watching. Riders may spot beavers, eagles, loons, squirrels, and even moose while travelling through this peaceful natural area.

With diverse scenery, peaceful forest sections, and plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of the area, Figure Eight Lake Trail is the perfect short adventure for those looking to experience the natural side of the Mighty Peace. Pack a picnic, spend the night camping, bring your camera, and enjoy one of County of Northern Lights favourite outdoor destinations.

8. Cummings Lake Trail

Starting Point: Cummings Lake Recreation Area

Cummings Lake Recreation Area offers a peaceful cycling experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the Peace Country landscape. Located just north of the Town of Fairview, this quiet recreation area is a great place to slow down, explore, and enjoy the outdoors.

The area features 11 km of trails that connect the campground with the Town of Fairview and the Fairview Golf Course, offering riders a scenic route through forested areas and peaceful surroundings. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the opportunity to experience the changing landscapes of the region.

Visitors can make Cummings Lake Recreation Area their home base with camping options available in a quiet, forested setting. After a day of riding and exploring, it is easy to head into the Town of Fairview to enjoy local restaurants, shops, and amenities before returning to the campground for a relaxing evening by the fire.

Beyond cycling, Cummings Lake is a great destination to spend the day or make it a weekend adventure. Paddle across the lake by canoe, kayak, or paddle board, and watch for the many species of birds that call this area home. Visitors can also enjoy walking trails, horseshoe pits, a playground, ball diamonds, and nearby attractions.

During your visit, take time to explore the adjacent Fairview Pioneer Museum and learn more about the early settlers and history of the region.

With camping tucked among the trees, peaceful lake views, and easy access to town, Cummings Lake Recreation Area is a perfect stop for cyclists looking to combine adventure, relaxation, and a true Peace Country experience. Pack your bike, bring your camera, and enjoy one of Fairview’s favourite outdoor destinations.

9. Moonshine Lake Provincial Park

Starting Point: Moonshine Lake Provincial Park | Near Spirit River, Alberta

The Lakeview Loop at Moonshine Lake Provincial Park is a scenic 2.65 km trail that offers a relaxing ride through one of the Mighty Peace's most popular recreation destinations. With gentle terrain and beautiful views, it's an excellent option for families, casual riders, and anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely outing.

The trail winds through the campground and along the shoreline of Moonshine Lake, offering peaceful lake views and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife. Bird watchers will especially appreciate the variety of species that can be seen throughout the park, while the quiet forest setting makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.

Make Moonshine Lake Provincial Park your home base by staying at the campground, where you'll have easy access to the trail as well as the lake. After your ride, spend the afternoon swimming, paddling, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach before settling in for the evening around the campfire.

Plan Your Mighty Peace Cycling Adventure

With routes ranging from accessible community rides to full-day wilderness adventures, the Mighty Peace offers something for every type of cyclist.

Bring your bike, pack your sense of adventure, and experience the rivers, valleys, and trails that make this region one of Alberta’s most unique cycling destinations