Index
Choose from the list below to go to a specific section.Start Lines & Opening Ceremonies
Weekend Overview
Ride Gear & Bike Prep
Shuttle Schedule
Packing for Camp
Ride Rules + Safety
The Routes
Our Hotel Partners
Where to Park
Where to Cheer
Road closures & Transit Updates
Note: The information below is subject to change, please check back before Ride weekend to ensure you have the most up-to-date times and locations.
Online Check-In
Ready to confirm your spot at the start line? Save time and skip the line ups by checking in online.The deadline to get your Ride Ready Kit delivered has passed. However, you can still save time by checking in online before heading to one of our Kit Pick Up locations!
Note: Your Ride Ready Kit will contain important event credentials and information for the event weekend.
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Haven’t hit your fundraising minimum?
No problem, fill out a Delayed Self-Pledge and give yourself a little more time.
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Checking in after May 23?
Please pick up your Ride Ready Kit in person at one of the locations listed below.
Please note: Riders who’ve completed OCI (Online Check-In) before May 23 should be on the lookout for Ride Ready Kit delivery near the end of May or first week of June. -
Pick up and exchange dates & times: Ride Ready Kit, Jerseys, Hammer Vests, Milestone Helmets
Ride Ready Kit Pick up, Jersey Exchange, Hammer Vest Pickup and Milestone Helmets are available at all locations & times below.
Toronto
Wednesday, June 7 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Thursday, June 8 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Better Living Centre, Exhibition Place
Friday June 9 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Exhibition Place Start Line, Parking Lot 2
Niagara
Friday June 9 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Marriot on the Falls (Hennepin Room)
Bike Drop Off will be available at both start line locations from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m on Friday, June 9.
Note: Exact times may vary please check back before attending -
Your 2023 Ride Jerseys
The Ride jersey is symbolic of your commitment to the cause, and we’ve reinforced your quotes from seam to seam. Thank you for being epic.
Find your size.
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The Official Jersey
Whether it’s your first Ride or your 16th, this classic will confirm your commitment to conquer.
Awarded to all who raise $2,500+. One-day Riders raise $2000+. -
The Ambassador Jersey
Sponsored by RBC, this exclusive jersey is awarded to Riders who go the extra mile.
Awarded to those who fundraise $5000+.
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The Hammer Vest
Sponsored by the Carpenters & Allied Workers Local 27, this vest makes a great companion when riding 260km+.
Awarded to all Hammer Route Riders. -
The Polka Dot Jersey
The red & white is the rarest of them all. These Riders have all made a substantial impact on the cause.
Awarded to the first 10 Riders to raise $15,000.
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Start Lines & Opening Ceremonies
Opening ceremonies will begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. in both locations, please be on site early. Food and beverages will be provided for all Riders and Volunteers.
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Your Start Lines
Toronto Start Line
Exhibition Place, Parking Lot 2
200 Princes’ Boulevard
Toronto, ON M6K 3C3
Niagara Falls Start Line
7200 Niagara River Parkway
(across from the Niagara Floral Showhouse)
Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0 -
Ride Camp
View Map
Camp
Athletic Fields at McMaster University
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8
Camp is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
McMaster Dorm Key Pick Up:
Pick up will be located in the Main Camp at the McMaster Tent.
Riders need to bring photo I.D. and present their booking detail email.
Note: Only one person in a multi-occupancy room can pick up the keys for all guests.
Mohawk Dorm Key Pick Up:
Pick up will be located at the front desk upon arrival.
Riders need photo I.D. and their booking details from Mohawk.
Check-in any time after 3 p.m.
Key Return: Leave at the front desk or in the room upon departure. -
The Finish Line
Niagara Falls
7200 Niagara River Parkway
(across from the Niagara Floral Showhouse)
Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0
Weekend Overview
Don’t miss a minute of the Ride. Find all the information you need for your weekend below.
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Friday, June 9
Toronto (Toronto Start Line)
- 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Bike Drop Off and Kit Pick Up
Niagara Falls (Niagara Start Line)- 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Bike drop off
- 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Kit Pick Up
- 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Pasta dinner for all Riders (Hennepin Room, Mariott on the Falls)
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Saturday, June 10
Toronto + Niagara
- 6:30 a.m. Check-In begins, breakfast available
- 7:30 a.m. All participants must be on-site
- 8:00 a.m. Opening ceremonies
Camp (Hamilton)- 11:00 a.m. Camp open to Riders
- 1:00 p.m. Camp open to friends and family
- 6:00 p.m. Route closed
- 6:00 p.m. Camp show starts
- 7:30 p.m. One day Rider shuttle returns to Toronto
- 7:30 p.m. Bike Tech service ends
- 8:00 p.m. Bar & dinner service is closed
- 9:00 p.m. Camp closed
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Sunday, June 11
Camp (Hamilton)
- 4:30 a.m. Breakfast available
- 5:30 a.m. Shuttle pick up – Mohawk to McMaster
- 6:30 a.m. Route open
- 7:30 a.m. Riders must be on route (classic express excluded)
- 8:15 a.m. Classic Express shuttle loads
- 8:30 a.m. Classic Express shuttle departs
Niagara Falls
- 11:00 a.m. Finish line open for friends, family and supporters
- 12:00 p.m. Shuttle service begins back to Toronto
- 5:00 p.m. Route closed
- 5:00 p.m. Last shuttle departs to Toronto
Ride Luggage & Event Prep
Don’t forget your luggage tags and make sure your bike is ready to Ride before drop off.
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Yellow Survivor Flags
Survivor Flag fitting in Toronto
Provided by D’Ornellas Bike Shop staff
Location: Toronto Start Line
Friday, June 9 from 2:00 – 7:00 pm
Saturday, June 10 from 6:30 – 8:00 am
Survivor Flag fitting in Niagara
Provided by Bike Shop staff
Location: Niagara Start Line
Saturday, June 10 from 6:30 – 8:00 am -
Rider Luggage
Our friends at Canada Cartage along with our amazing volunteers are helping us get your luggage to camp. Drop off will be available at both start lines on Saturday morning, again on Sunday and ready for pick up at the finish line. Your Ride Kit contains luggage tags to identify your luggage. Please include: First Name, Last Name and Participant I.D. (included on bike plate). Do not forget to pick up your luggage before you get on your shuttle back to Toronto.
Note: Luggage drop off will not be available on Friday at either start line. -
Bike Drop Off
Secure, overnight parking will be available on Friday at both start lines. Riders are encouraged to drop off their bicycles between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at both start lines to avoid having both bike and luggage in tow on Saturday morning.
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Bike Prep and Ride Gear Packing List
Be sure to have your bike fitted and tuned by your local bike shop prior to Ride weekend.
Not sure where to go? Connect with our outfitters here.
At the minimum, do the A, B, C check (Air, Brakes, Chain). Put air in your tires, make sure your brakes work and check your chain for any rust.
On-site mechanics may charge for anything beyond minor adjustments, be prepared to Ride.
Pre event gear prep on the morning of the Ride:
- Wear comfortable Bib shorts or cycling shorts and your official event jersey and your orange Ride bracelet inclded in your Ride Ready Kit.
- Ensure bike credentials are adhered to your bicycle (seat tag and handlebar tag)
- Chamois Cream (This is an anti-bacterial cream used to reduce friction between the clothing and your skin. This will limit the amount of chaffing that occurs during a ride and means that you won't get as many saddle sores)
- Sunscreen
This is what we suggest you keep with you on your ride:
- Your water bottles
- Your cycling helmet and bicycle gloves
- Sunglasses
- Money / credit card
- Waterproof case for your cellphone
- Lightweight rain shell
- I.D. - Drivers License and Health Card
- A repair kit including:- Two spare tubes
- Pump or gas cylinders
- Tire levers
- Multi-tool or Allen keys
Shuttle Schedule
Complimentary shuttles are available between Toronto and Niagara Falls for all Riders. Along with pick-ups from partner hotels on event day. See below for schedules.
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Friday
Niagara Start Line Riders (Toronto to Niagara Falls)
Departure Times: 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Pick-Up Location: Toronto Start Line - Exhibition Place, New Brunswick Way, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3
Drop-Off Location: Niagara Falls Host Hotel (Marriot on the Falls).
Details: A separate truck will transport your bike. (Bikes will be transferred to the Niagara Start Line for overnight storage and can be accessed Saturday morning). -
Saturday
Host Hotel to Start Line (Toronto & Niagara Falls)
Departure Time: 6:00 a.m.
Pick-Up Locations: In front of Intercontinental Hotel (Toronto) and Marriot on the Falls (Niagara Falls)
Drop-Off Location: Toronto & Niagara Falls Start Lines
Details: There will be no bike transport with these shuttles, please drop off your bike at the respective Start Line on Friday before checking in at your hotel.
Classic Express (Day 1 Classic Route Pit Stop to Camp)
Departure Time: Shuttle(s) will depart when full.
Pick-Up Locations: Lower Baseline W & Fourth Line (Map)
Drop-Off Location: McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8
Details: Riders will be directed to pick-up location around the corner from our pit stop.
One Day Rider (Hamilton to Toronto)
Departure Time: 7:30 p.m.
Pick-Up Location: Outside camp, Lot H - McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8
Drop-Off Location: Toronto Start Line - Exhibition Place, New Brunswick Way, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3
Details: This shuttle will ONLY be available for those who have registered as 1 Day Riders from Toronto to Hamilton.
Note: Riders will need to make their own arrangements for transportation from Camp to Mohawk dorms on Saturday evening (10-15 minutes from McMaster). There will be NO bike transport with this shuttle, all bikes are to be left at Camp for overnight bike storage. -
Sunday
Mohawk College Residence (RCC Hamilton) to Camp Start Line
Departure Time: 5:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. (Shuttle will be looping for 2 separate pickups)
Pick-Up Location: Outside front entrance of Mohawk College Residence (RCC Hamilton), 245 Fennell Avenue West, Hamilton ON L9A 2V7
Drop-Off Location: Outside camp, Lot H - McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8 -
Classic Express (Camp to Day 2 Classic Route Lunch Stop)
Departure Time: Shuttle will load for 8:15 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.
Pick-Up Locations: McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8
Drop-Off Location: Day 2 Classic Route Lunch Stop – Beamsville Lions Club
Details: Separate transport will be included for all bikes. -
Finish Line Shuttle (Niagara Falls to Toronto)
Departure Time: Shuttles will repeatedly run throughout the day beginning at 12:00 p.m. and depart when full. Final Shuttle will depart from Niagara Falls at 5:00 p.m.
Pick-Up Locations: Niagra Falls Finish Line
Drop-Off Location: Toronto Start Line - Exhibition Place, New Brunswick Way, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3
Details: Separate trucks to transport bikes will be provided. The Sunday Shuttles will only run from Niagara Falls to Toronto (Exhibition Place) – there will be NO shuttles back to host hotels on Sunday and they cannot make stops along the way.
Packing for Camp
Our essentials list should have you covered, but make sure you go through your own checklist. Don’t be afraid to include a few extras for comfort.
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Essentials
- Identification (government ID + Health card)
- Cash, credit card
- Comfortable clothing for both days
- Sweatshirt, jacket, change of socks
- Sleeping bag and pillow (if camping)
- Sunscreen, hat/bandana
- Reusable water bottle
- Toiletries (toothbrush, paste)
- Charger and batteries if needed
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Extras
- Ziploc bags for wet items
- Raingear (weather permitting)
- Sleeping pad if needed
- Flashlight
- Earplugs
- Extra Jersey and bib/cycling shorts for Sunday
- Chamois Cream (This is an anti-bacterial cream used to reduce friction between the clothing and your skin. This will limt the amount of chaffing that occurs during a ride and means that you won't get as many saddle sores)
Ride Rules + Safety
The most important thing to remember is that it’s a ride, not a race. Slow equals safe.Please take a moment to watch our Ride Safety Video
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Safety Do's
- Wear a helmet
- Obey traffic signals + signs
- Ride predictably, avoid weaving in and out
- Use hand signals to indicate turns and stops
- Call out when possible, ex. “On your left!” or “Stopping!”
- Cycle with traffic, never against
- Keep an eye out for drivers in parked cars
- Leave extra room for other riders and leave drafting to the pros
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Event Safety Communication
The Event Alert System (EAS) will be used to communicate the status of course conditions to participants, volunteers and spectators during the event days. All riders should familiarize themselves with the system’s color indicators and remain alert for directions from event staff, announcers, and volunteer leaders, as well as take precautions to prepare properly for varying conditions on event day. Look for EAS communication at the Start/Finish Lines, Pitstops on route and via email/text communications.
In an emergency, riders should be prepared to follow instructions from volunteer leaders, event staff and public safety officials. Also, keep an eye on your phone for emergency updates.
Click here for Weather Alert Levels
The Routes
Strava links are separated by route below. If you aren’t using Strava here is a Google Map
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Two Days
The Classic (Toronto start): Ride to Niagara with an overnight stay at camp. Finish in front of the Falls.
View Day 1 Route Map on Strava l View Day 2 Route Map on Strava
The Classic (Niagara start): Ride to Hamilton and back with an overnight stay at camp. Finish in front of the Falls.
View Route Map on Strava | View Day 2 Route Map on Strava
The Classic Express: Start from Toronto and finish the day with a nutrient packed lunch. Shuttle to camp and then re-start from your day two lunch spot on Sunday. Finish in front of the Falls.
View Day 1 Route Map on Strava l View Day 2 Route Map on Strava
The Hammer: Ride the extended route (160km) from Toronto to Hamilton in your exclusive cycling vest and enjoy a premium lunch along the way. Stay overnight, finish with everyone in front of the Falls.
View Route Map on Strava | View Day 2 Route Map on Strava
Important information regarding the Toronto Ride Start Line:
We've set up an additional, clearly marked chute for Hammer Riders and experienced participants at our Toronto start line. Once they start riding, the rest of the 2023 Riders will follow. We're encouraging new or more social Riders to position themselves towards the back to avoid any early collisions.
Remember, it's a Ride, not a race. The stage will sit in the middle to ensure all Riders experience the opening ceremonies from the same vantage point.
Sunday Route Info:
Safely moving thousands of Riders through three cities presents its own challenges, due to variables outside of our control, the Day 2 route will be 123km.
We recognize this is longer than expected and will add some time to your Ride. If you can, leave early on Sunday morning and take advantage of all pit stops along the way. There will be lots of additional support on the route, including sweep vehicles and a shuttle.
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One Day
Toronto to Hamilton: Ride to Hamilton and get a lift back after the epic camp festivities.
View Route Map on Strava
Niagara to Hamilton: Ride to Hamilton and enjoy the epic camp festivities before finding your way back.
View Route Map on Strava
Ride Your Way: Go as far as you want from anywhere in the world. You are epic.
Note: Pit Stops will be available for Riders along all routes with access to washrooms, snacks and BioSteel sports drinks.
Our Hotel Partners
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In Toronto
Intercontinental Toronto Centre
225 Front Street West, Toronto, ON
M5V 2X3 B
Group booking deadline has passed, please call hotel directly for availability. -
In Niagara Falls
Marriott on the Falls
6755 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls, ON,
L2G 3W7
Group booking deadline has passed, please call hotel directly for availability.
Where to Park
Please refer to attached maps for event parking at each location.
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At Exhibition Place
View Map
Kit Pick Up Parking on Wednesday/Thursday, Better Living Centre- Lot 855 (5 on map), please pay for parking at parking meter.
- Lot 853 (3 on map), please pay for parking at parking meter.
Kit Pick Up Parking on Friday, Main Event Site- Lot 853 (3 on map), flat rate: $18/day
Event Day Underground Parking at Enercare Centre (formerly Direct Energy Centre).
Parking cost:- $18 per vehicle for 1 day;
- $32 per vehicle for 2 days (Sat – Sun);
- $45 per vehicle for 3 days (Fri – Sun).
Parking Lot Access Hours:
Underground parking will be available during the following times:- Friday, 6/9: 2 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Saturday, 6/10: 4 a.m. – 10 a.m.
- Sunday, 6/11: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
NOTE: Vehicles with bikes on roof racks will not be permitted in underground overnight parking lots.
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At McMaster
View Map
Lots A, B and C are available for parking. (4-6 min walk to Camp) Additional parking is located in lot M, N and P (15 min walk).
Parking cost: $8 per vehicle (daily fee).
Parking Lot Access: Access into McMaster University from Main St West, Sterling Street will be closed to vehicle traffic between Forsyth Ave. And Whitton Road. -
In Niagara Falls
View Map
Rapidsview Parking Lot (7369 Niagara River Parkway), located off Upper Rapids Blvd and Portage Rd.
Please park in highlighted lotsParking cost:
- $10 per vehicle/day
- $20 per vehicle/overnight (Fri/Sat or Sat/Sun)
- $30 per vehicle/overnight (Fri – Sun)
Details: Single day parking passes are available for purchase at pay and display machines. Overnight or multi-day passes are to be purchased from the parking booth attendant upon entry to the Rapidsview Parking Lot. These tickets will not be available for purchase at the Terminal Building near the WEGO shuttle stop.
Please Note: There is no VIP parking located at this site. For easier travel, please access the parking lot from Portage Rd instead of Niagara Parkway. Once you have parked your vehicle, proceed to the WEGO shuttle stop in the parking lot for a complimentary ride to the ceremonies site.
Where to Cheer
Friends and family are invited to see you off and celebrate your finish on Ride weekend.
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Toronto Classic – Day 1: Saturday, June 10
Cheering Station 1 (9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)
Roughly 30 km into Ride
Garthwood Public School, 3245 Colonial Drive
Mississauga, ON L5L 5G2
Cheering Station 2 (11:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.)
Roughly 100 km into Ride
Olympic Ice Surface Arena, 70 Olympic Drive Dundas,
ON L9H 7P5 -
Niagara Classic – Day 1: Saturday, June 10
Cheering Station 1 (9:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.)
Roughly 45 km into Ride
North Pelham Park, 1780 Cream Street
Pelham, ON L0S 1C0Cheering Station 2 (11:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.)
Roughly 105 km into Ride
Stoneywood Park, 271 Winterberry Drive
Stoney Creek, ON L8J 2N5 -
The Hammer Route – Day 1: Saturday, June 10
Cheering Station 1 (9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Roughly 25 km into Ride
Rathwood District Park
1095 Rathburn Road East
Mississauga, ON L4W 5R5
Cheering Station 2 (11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.)
Roughly 60 km into Ride
Glen Williams Public School
512 Main Street
Georgetown, ON L7G 3S8
Cheer at McMaster University (11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)
Athletic Fields
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8 -
Classic – Day 2: Sunday, June 11
Cheer at Camp (6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.)
Athletic Fields
1280 Main Street West
Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8
Cheering Station 1 (6:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.)
Roughly 15 km into Ride
Stoneywood Park, 271 Winterberry Drive
Stoney Creek, ON L8J 2N5
Cheering Station 2 (8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.)
Roughly 70 km into Ride
North Pelham Park, 1780 Cream Street
Pelham, ON L0S 1C0Ride Finish Line (11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
7200 Niagara River Parkway (across from the Niagara Floral Showhouse),
Niagara Falls, ON L0S 1A0
Road Closures & Transit Updates
Here is a breakdown of each of our closures that may affect traffic along the route
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Saturday June 10, 2023
Toronto
Exhibition Place – 5:00am – 10:00am- Ontario Dr closed to all traffic between Princes’ Blvd & Lake Shore Blvd W
- Prince Edward Island Cres closed to all traffic between Ontario Dr & Princes’ Blvd
- Westbound lanes closed to all traffic from Strachan Ave to Windermere Ave
- Northbound lanes closed to all traffic from Lake Shore Blvd W to The Queensway
Lower Base Line W – 9:00am – 2:00pm
Halton Region- Closed to all traffic between Fourth Line & 100m East of Regional Rd 25
- Closed to all traffic between Britannia Rd & Britannia Rd
Niagara River Parkway – 2:00am – 10:00am
Niagara Falls- Northbound lanes closed to all traffic from Upper Rapidsview Blvd to Fraser Hill
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Sunday June 11, 2023
Niagara Falls
Niagara River Parkway – 2:00am – 7:00pm
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Northbound lanes closed to all traffic from Upper Rapidsview Blvd to Fraser Hill
Niagara River Parkway – 8:00am – 5:00pm
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Full road closure of Niagara Parkway from Marshall Rd to Upper Rapids Boulevard will be in effect, with Bridgewater Street reduced to one lane.
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Transit Updates
If you or your guests are planning to travel by Go Transit to Niagara Falls, please know there are planned service adjustments on the Lakeshore West line over the Ride weekend that may affect your travel plans. For more information and to know before you go, please visit: Go Transit Service Adjustments.