By Caroline Cox

There’s no better way to enjoy Thunder Bay’s superior outdoors than by biking. So save carbon emissions, get a breath of fresh air, and check out our city’s highlight destinations by joining an arts and culture themed Discovery Ride with Safe Cycling Thunder Bay!

Safe Cycling Thunder Bay—a partnership between the City of Thunder Bay and EcoSuperior Environmental Programs—is pairing with local organizations this year to offer themed cycling tours:  Local Food, Notable Trees, Family Nature & Historical Tour, Coffee Tour, and Pedal to Parks, among others. The aim is to cover basic riding safety, to get participants comfortable riding on the road in a group setting, and, of course, to enjoy some of TBay’s special places. Tours are led by nationally certified cycling instructors and field experts.

The next ride, a Coffee Tour for cyclists planned for Saturday, August 29, will sample specials at many of the new coffee shops that have been popping up all over town, as well as some old favourite stops. After quick bike and helmet safety checks and a review of riding safety basics, participants will hit the road. Edward Maki, co-owner of CommuniTea and Coffee, will lead the guided tour of local java stops, and Safe Cycling instructors will come along to offer riding tips en route.

If coffee isn’t your cup of tea, maybe you’ll enjoy one of the other tours or classes. As part of the city’s Culture Days event, Safe Cycling is partnering with Evergreen A United Neighbourhood and Thunder Bay’s Heritage Advisory Committee to offer a tour of heritage sites in the East End on Sunday, September 26. And a tour of parks, in conjunction with the city’s parks department, will take place when the fall leaves are in full colour. Safe Cycling also offers commuter, 55+, and women’s courses for the public, as well as custom courses for adults or children upon request.

Discovery rides cover approximately 12 kilometres at a leisurely pace and are suitable for mature individuals, parents with trailers, and children age 10 and up—although we don’t recommend giving kids samples on the coffee tour! Participants should bring bikes and helmets in good condition, water bottles, and snacks.

To register for a tour or to learn more, visit SafeCyclingThunderBay.com.