Joyride 150

photo by Ana Nisio on Flickr

You know what we did today? The family and I went for a lovely bike ride together then had a picnic lunch.

Were we on vacation, do you ask? Nope.

What warm-weather place did we travel to, you wonder?

Why, we stayed right near our own neighbourhood, that's where! We hit Joyride 150 for the day; our first visit back since last winter.

For those of you who have never heard of it, Joyride 150 is a 90,000 square foot riding facility located in Markham, Ontario. They have everything from a sweet, cross-country track that loops the perimeter of the building to tabletop jumps and log overs.

Now, I know some of you think an indoor riding park may be similar to a skateboard or BMX park. In other words, a place for stunt riders only. Wrong.

I was clipped in for my entire ride today and had a blast on all the skinnies, teeter-totters and rocky descents. Totally the perfect fix for any mountain biker or cyclist. Even beginners or riders looking to just spin a little will have their bikes thanking them after a visit to Joyride.



If you've been missing the forest and want to work on your switchbacks, they've updated a great little section nestled among lit Christmas trees. They've also added some new sections off the main track; a nice surprise after a season away. Check out this video for a glimpse of the X-Country track and other trails from last year.






Of course, they do have a section for BMX riding and my boys were itching to try out their new rides they found under the Christmas tree.




My daughter heard the foam pit calling her name and attacked this jump section with fervor. Telling them they'll be spending the day at Joyride ranks right up there with Canada's Wonderland so we were in their good books for sure.



Picnic tables are available in the main section of the park and if you get there early enough, you can score the comfy couches located in front of the fireplaces and flat screen TVs. You can pack your own food or order pizza at the snack bar.

Yep, great to know that winter holds many more trips to Joyride in our future. Be sure to schedule it into yours as well. We consider it our little piece of summer during these cold months. Winter Shminter. Joyride rocks.