Riding the Grey Owl's Trail

Scott MacDonald
Oct 15
3 min read

Back in October of 2020, I was invited to ride the Grey Owl's Trail in Prince Albert National Park. I remember thinking "It's a hiking trail, how hard could it be?". I even invited a friend along who hadn't ridden a bike in years prior to that morning (I still feel bad about that one).

If you've every hiked (or biked) this trail, you already know that I was in for a rude awakening to be sure. The trail is not super technical, nor is there a lot of elevation to overcome. But on a bike, it's a challenge purely from a fatigue standpoint. Right from the beginning, you contend with a barrage of roots that you ride over. From there, you have to worry about fallen trees that require you to carry your bike up and over (or around) and a few scattered rock gardens here and there. All these items add up to a slow average speed with few spots where you can just relax.

So why do I continue to ride this trail every October since 2020?

Because It's a Challenge

I was in much better shape in the fall of 2020. This trail was a challenge, and I enjoyed the challenge. I also did a few 100km road rides back then and a few Cross Country races as well, not to mention some Cross Fit competitions. I enjoyed the challenge of pushing myself to the edge of my abilities. Of course, over the years my fitness has greatly decreased (owning a business isn't stressful, right?) and every year this ride gets more challenging.

I now pursue it to see if I can accomplish it again, despite being in worse shape. It's like a personal challenge where it seems that I am trying to make it harder on myself every year. I don't endorse this approach, by the way. But regardless, if you enjoy riding your bike and enduring a decent challenge, this might be the ride for you.

Because It's Beautiful

Riding in the forest of Prince Albert National Park is amazing. Even if you just ride a trail near Waskesiu for a few miles, the beauty around you is awesome. But the Grey Owl's trail is incredible. You ride through various ecosystems that are constantly changing the further you go. Evergreen forests, to birch forests. Sandy beaches, to the serenity of the deep forest. This trail is rewarding every mile you pass.

Particularly in October, the leaves falling from the trees transform this trail into a display of greens, browns, yellows, and reds.

The wildlife includes everything from deer to grouse and more. Although we've spotted elk and bears while driving to the trail-head, we haven't encountered them on the trail itself. However, the squirrels rustling in the bushes make enough noise to keep us alert.

Because It's Quiet

I enjoy riding, hiking, and appreciating nature. However, I don't always find it as enjoyable when surrounded by others. I prefer the tranquility of a less-traveled trail. A forest that's more challenging to access and enjoy attracts fewer people, offering greater peace and quiet.

I often will stop behind the rest of the group mid-ride just to sit and listen. The water lapping against the shore below. The wind rustling the trees above. The birds and the squirrels calling out in the bush all around. You just can't get this in our cold, impersonal concrete jungles.

Serenity like this cannot be found in our concrete jungles

Because It's Something Only A Few Will Do

Naturally, there's a personal motive involved. This is a trail that most people won't even attempt, and few will tackle more than once. Being able to do something that others lack the motivation to try certainly brings a sense of pride. When others opt for the couch instead of the trail I'm on, it's gratifying. I'm not anyone special, I'm certainly not in top shape, and I'm far from being the fastest on the trail. But when I complete a ride like this, I can definitely smile and think, "at least I didn't stay home." (although it's certainly tempting). I believe everyone who takes on this ride feels the same way, I believe we all take away a bit of pride in ourselves and the accomplishment.

This year, someone asked me why I continue to lead these rides, and I jokingly said it's something I "have to do" now. In truth, even if someone else took over, I'd still participate. It's challenging, and yes, I experience pain during, after, and the following day. However, knowing that I can still do it when many others won't is reason enough for me to keep going.