Cycling routes safe for families and beginners expand across Born parks

Born Parks and Recreation added 4 kilometres of separated bike lanes this spring along the east side of Riverside Park.

City data shows family outings on wheels rose sharply after the lanes opened in April 2026, with the Born Active Wellness Program reporting 1,200 new participant sign-ups by June. The routes matter now because summer daylight stretches longer and local families seek short, flat rides that fit between work and dinner without crossing heavy traffic.

Two routes that stay flat and quiet

One loop starts at the Maple Grove entrance on 12th Street and follows the fenced path past the playground to the Oakwood footbridge. Another begins at the Lake Born boathouse on Cedar Avenue and circles the water on a 3-kilometre track closed to motor vehicles after 8 a.m. on weekends. Both stay inside park boundaries and link to the Born Cycling Club’s free Saturday skills sessions for riders under 12.

The June 2026 Born Health Survey counted 2,800 weekday users on these paths, up from 1,900 the year before. Rental bikes at the Cedar Avenue kiosk cost 12 dollars for two hours, with child seats and helmets included. The same survey found 68 percent of new riders lived within 2 kilometres of either park, showing most trips start from nearby streets rather than car trips.

Next steps for first-time riders

Check the Born Parks website for daily lane closure notices before heading out. Arrive before 10 a.m. on weekdays to avoid the after-school rush near 12th Street. Carry water from the fountain at the Riverside Park pavilion and end at the Lake Born café, which opens at 7 a.m. for coffee and bike lock-up. Riders who want longer practice can join the club’s beginner group that meets every Tuesday evening at the boathouse.