Great Annapolis Ride

A Scenic Cycling Adventure Through Annapolis Valley

The Great Annapolis Ride is a Cycling Nova Scotia organized cycling event that showcases the very best of the Annapolis Valley — rolling farmland, lush vineyards, apple orchards, and sweeping views of the Bay of Fundy. Starting and finishing in the charming village of Canning, this well-supported ride offers three route options designed for everyone from casual cyclists to seasoned endurance riders.

Now in its latest edition, the Great Annapolis Ride has become a highlight of the Nova Scotia cycling calendar. The event is professionally organized by Cycling Nova Scotia, the provincial sport governing body for cycling, ensuring a safe, well-marked, and thoroughly enjoyable experience for every participant. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself on the long road routes or enjoy a leisurely spin on the gravel paths, this ride delivers a memorable day in one of Canada's most beautiful rural regions.

Three Route Options

The Great Annapolis Ride is built around inclusivity, with route distances that accommodate a wide range of fitness and experience levels:

• 40km Road Route — A short, smooth road loop ideal for riders new to organized events or anyone looking for a relaxed paved ride with gentle rollers through the Valley countryside.
• 61km Road Route — A mid-distance road route that takes in more of the Valley's highlights, including longer stretches along the coast, through farmland, and past vineyards.
• 97km Road Route — The flagship distance for endurance cyclists, a challenging route that covers the most scenic and demanding terrain the Annapolis Valley has to offer.

All routes start and finish in Canning, with the 97km distance rolling out at 10am and the 40km and 61km routes departing at 11am.

What's Included With Registration

Registration for the Great Annapolis Ride is $49.99 for Cycling NS members or $64.99 for non-members (which includes a one-event membership). Registration includes a generous package of rider support and amenities:

• Fully marked routes with clear signage and cue sheets so you never lose your way.
• Aid stations at kilometre 12, kilometre 31, and kilometre 67, stocked with food, hydration, and basic mechanical supplies. Volunteers at each station are ready to cheer you on and help with any needs.
• Post-ride BBQ celebration back in Canning, where riders gather to refuel, swap stories, and celebrate the day's achievements.
• Insurance and support through Cycling Nova Scotia, including on-course vehicle support and basic first aid coverage.

The Annapolis Valley Experience

The Annapolis Valley is one of Nova Scotia's most fertile and picturesque regions, often called the province's breadbasket. Bordered by the Bay of Fundy to the north and the dramatic North Mountain ridge, the Valley is a patchwork of farms, vineyards, orchards, and charming communities. The Great Annapolis Ride takes you through the heart of it all, with routes that wind past centuries-old farmsteads, newly planted vineyards, and panoramic viewpoints over the world's highest tides.

Canning itself is a delightful village to base your ride from. Located on the Minas Basin shoreline, it has a growing food and drink scene, easy access to Cape Blomidon Provincial Park, and a relaxed rural charm that makes it the perfect launch point for a day in the saddle. Make a weekend of it by exploring the area's farm markets, wineries, and lookoff trails before or after the ride.

Practical Information for Riders

• Location: Start and finish in Canning, Annapolis Valley, NS.
• Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026.
• Registration: $49.99 (Cycling NS members) / $64.99 (non-members, includes one-event membership). Register in advance at the Cycling NS website, where you'll also find route maps and event details.
• What to Bring: A road or gravel bike in good working order, a helmet (mandatory), weather-appropriate clothing, and a water bottle. Aid stations provide additional food and drink along the route.
• Getting There: Canning is about 1.5 hours from Halifax via Highway 101 (Exit 12). Allow extra time to park and check in before the start.
• Where to Stay: Wolfville, Kentville, and Canning offer a range of inns, B&Bs, and hotels. Book early for a race weekend — Valley accommodations fill up quickly in summer.

Why Ride

The Great Annapolis Ride stands out for its combination of stunning scenery, thoughtful organization, and genuine small-town hospitality. It's a ride that welcomes first-timers with open arms while still offering a serious challenge for experienced cyclists on the long routes. With its well-stocked aid stations, post-ride BBQ, and the unmatched beauty of the Annapolis Valley in mid-July, it's one of the most rewarding days you can spend on two wheels in Nova Scotia.