Written by Amy Elvidge, Program Manager
Hockey isn’t the only sport operating year-round in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area– the region has become flush with cycling clubs for riders of all ages and skill levels, offering rides and events all through the year. Clubs range in size, skill and ethos, and are based in nearly every pocket of the region.
After moving from Boston to Toronto in 2019, I was nostalgic for my long-standing Tuesday morning ride group and asked new acquaintances if they knew of any cycling clubs in our area. I was in luck—our neighborhood boasted several clubs, one of which offered early morning rides every day of the week. I quickly signed up for the Morning Glory Cycling Club, which jump started my ability to meet fellow riders at my level and discover the best cycling routes in and around the city.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist that’s recently moved to the area, or looking to try out group riding, it helps to know what’s available and in your neighborhood. Read on to explore women-specific cycling clubs and meetups.
Know Before You Go:
No Drops – Group rides where no one gets left behind should a rider not be able to hold the pace or if they have a mechanical or flat tire. These rides are best to start with to learn how to safely ride with in group and get to know the route.
Membership Fee – Cycling clubs that require riders to join and pay a membership fee and/or register with the Ontario Cycling Association (OCA). Dues are renewed annually.
Just like going for a solo ride, ride organizers and clubs will expect you to be prepared with hydration, a portable snack, spare tubes and tools, and a willingness to follow the group. If you see a club on this list that requires membership and you’re hesitant about committing, you can always reach out about a trial ride before joining.
Women Specific (All Levels)
Toronto
- Gyaldem Cycling Collective – This women’s cycling group offers weekly rides in the morning and evening. Rides are announced on Instagram and feature a mix of terrains with starting locations across the city.
- Saddles Sisters – An inclusive women’s group with daily morning rides and bike packing trips outside the city. Rides feature varying levels and distances with starting locations across the city.
- High Park Women’s Ride (Morning Glory Cycling Club) – MGCC operates weekly women’s rides on Thursday and Saturday mornings. Club membership is $65-90 (free under 16) plus OCA membership/insurance ($51).
- Wild Bettys – A women’s mountain biking club with chapters based around the Don Valley, Dufferin and Milton offering weekly rides and skill clinics. The club also has a competitive women’s race team. The Club fees are $60 plus OCA membership/insurance ($51).
Did we miss a cycling community that should be on this list? Please let us know at info@pointa.ca.
