Canada has always been one of the world’s great frontiers for adventure riders, a country defined by endless forests, rugged coastlines and remote gravel corridors. Yet for all its potential, it has never had a national system of adventure routes the way the U.S. enjoys with the Backcountry Discovery Routes network. That gap is finally starting to close with the launch of Adventure Routes Canada (ARC), a new initiative designed to map, connect and share a collection of ADV‑friendly tracks across the country that riders can download for free.

ARC is being developed as a national effort under the Motorcyclists Confederation of Canada, working with regional clubs, local riders and provincial partners to create a standardized network across territories. The idea is to link existing gravel and mixed‑terrain roads into a cohesive system while filling in the gaps with newly scouted tracks, all with the goal of giving riders a clear, reliable way to explore Canada’s backcountry. 

The project is built around accessibility, which means every route will be available as a free GPX download and will include both on‑road and off‑road variants. “The goal is for both types of riders to reach the same destination, but take different routes to get there,” explain the organizers. 

The first release focuses on Atlantic Canada, where new routes are now live across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. These tracks were developed with input from riders who know the terrain intimately, and they highlight the region’s mix of coastal two‑track, deep‑forest gravel, historic backroads and optional technical sections for those who want more challenge. 

What makes Adventure Routes Canada especially compelling is its inclusive design philosophy. Instead of forcing riders into a single line, each route offers parallel options that allow big‑bike riders to stick to scenic pavement and well‑maintained gravel if they prefer, while more experienced riders can dive into rougher terrain. Everyone still ends up in the same place at the end of the day, which makes planning group trips far easier and opens the door for more riders to experience Canada’s backcountry without feeling overmatched.

It also gives riders a national framework, a growing library of vetted tracks and a reason to explore provinces they might never have considered. For international riders, it offers a new way to plan multi‑week or even coast‑to‑coast expeditions through one of the most scenic and sparsely populated countries on earth.

Adventure Routes Canada is still in its early stages, but the foundation is strong and the momentum is real. With more regions on the way, the country is finally getting the adventure network it has long deserved. For now, the free tracks are available through the Maritime ADV Riders Association Facebook page. These routes are part of an early roll out so they may undergo some modifications before the final release.