Cycle & Charge: 8 Great Bike Trails Accessible by Electric Car

The Confederation Trail, repurposed from old railway lines, spans Prince Edward Island from end to end, ideal for EV drivers. Stretching 273 km from Tignish to Elmira, with additional paths branching to towns and the coastline, this main cycling route accommodates all fitness levels. The main bike trail features 250 interpretation panels in English and French, recounting the island's architectural, historical, natural, and geographical stories, sectioned and marked by kilometers.

The Tourism Prince Edward Island website provides diverse cycling itineraries, some featuring charging stations near popular entry points. For instance, the Emerald to Borden-Carleton stretch spans 18 km through farmlands, with a Level 3 charger in Borden-Carleton—a great starting point for your biking journey!

Alternatively, charge at the Level 2 station in Tignish for the O'Leary section, or vice versa, with a Level 2 station conveniently located in O'Leary to access the trail. This segment covers a 45 km cycling path, ranging from easy to moderate, passing coastal communities.

Moving forward, the O'Leary to Wellington route also offers a 45 km cycling path, characterized by farmlands and small-town communities. Wellington features a Level 2 charging station conveniently situated near the bike trail. These suggestions aim to enhance your experience exploring Prince Edward Island by bike. Plan your route carefully by identifying opportunities to charge your electric car during, before, or after your outdoor adventure. 

The 110 km Harvest Moon Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada, connects the Grand-Pré National Historic Site to Fort Anne, tracing the historic Dominion Atlantic Railway route. This scenic path winds through apple orchards and fields, spans two railway bridges, and offers cyclists a unique journey through the towns of Wolfville, Kentville, and Berwick. Accessible year-round, the trail is especially delightful for autumn rides, showcasing vibrant seasonal colors. Consider extending your stay at the Grand-Pré National Historic Site to explore the Annapolis Valley further.

Along the cycling trail, certain sections from Grand-Pré to Cambridge Station and Annapolis Royal are reserved for non-motorized vehicles. It’s advisable to recharge at designated parking areas. Tesla owners can use a Level 2 charger conveniently located at 2242 chemin Grand-Pré, just steps away from the trail’s official starting point. Another Tesla charger is located at Annapolis Royal Town Hall, near the cycling path.

The Virginia Capital Trail is a paved path for pedestrians and cyclists, linking Virginia's former and current capitals of Jamestown and Richmond. Stretching approximately 84 kilometres along the picturesque Route 5 corridor, this trail features well-maintained woodland paths that are popular among cyclists and walkers alike. It’s a favoured route for road cycling, running, and leisurely strolls, offering moments of serene tranquility. Along the way, explore historic sites, dine at local restaurants, and unwind at scenic picnic spots.

Beginning your journey from Richmond allows easy access to Level 2 charging stations near the Virginia Capital Trail. This ensures convenient opportunities to recharge your EV while enjoying your next biking adventure from the city.

Nestled in the heart of the Laurentians, the linear trail Le P'tit Train du Nord is one of Quebec's most beautiful attractions. Ranked among the best cycling routes in Canada, Le P'tit Train du Nord is a prime destination for cyclists. In summer, the trail transforms into a bustling cycling path, offering views of lakes, wooded hills, and tranquil villages.

Along the cycling trail—originally a railway line built between 1891 and 1909 connecting Saint-Jérôme to Mont-Laurier—there are now rehabilitated stations serving as museums and cafes, ideal for cyclists seeking charming rest stops. Numerous parking areas and EV charging stations are available as well.

In Ohio (not Florida!), the Little Miami Scenic Trail is the longest in the Miami Valley Trails network, offering shaded paths and intriguing stops along its route. South of Spring Valley, Ohio, the trail runs alongside the Little Miami River, providing a winding, shaded ride with visits to small towns like Corwin and Oregonia. North of Spring Valley, it follows former railway lines, linking major cities such as Xenia and Springfield via Yellow Springs.

Two state parks, John Bryan and Caesar Creek, are accessible from the bike path. A Tesla Level 2 charging station is located at the John Bryan Community Center, near the state park and trail. Another option is the Level 2 station in the parking lot of Caesar Creek State Park office. A stop at Xenia Station, the junction of four trails in Xenia, Ohio, is a must and could also be a good starting point for EV drivers, as there is a Level 2 charging station nearby.

The Georgian Trail is a scenic getaway through the hills and forests of southern Ontario, following the Niagara Escarpment over a distance of 34 km. Sandy beaches like Christie and Northwinds are easily accessible from the trail. Established in 1989, this linear park follows the route of the former Northern Railway along the southern shore of Georgian Bay. Well-maintained and popular with cyclists, it offers spectacular views from rolling hills to powerful waterfalls.

Along the cycling trail, from Collingwood through Thornbury to Meaford, there are 30 access points and multiple EV charging options. In Collingwood, a fast charging station is available at the Canadian Tire parking lot, with a Tesla Level 3 charger conveniently located near the trail. EV drivers starting from Thornbury can use a Level 2 charging station in the village for their journey.

Root River State Trail, Minnesota, U.S., is part of the Blufflands trail system, spanning 67 kilometers and offering stunning views of the steep limestone cliffs of the Root River Valley. Wildlife abounds, with frequent sightings of wild turkeys, deer, hawks, and red-headed vultures. Occasionally, rattlesnakes can be spotted on rocky outcrops or along riverbanks; being protected and endangered in the state, it's advised to observe them from a distance. The trail winds around cliffs, through historic towns nestled in the slopes, traversing rolling farmland, mill districts, and remnants of the region's railway heritage.

Along the cycling trail starting from Fountain and spanning charming towns like Lanesboro (with a Level 2 charging station), Whalan, Peterson, Rushford (also equipped with a Level 2 charging station), and Houston (which also has a Level 2 station), charging locations are available over a distance of 29 kilometers in one direction.