Published on
January 18, 2026

Pelee Island, a peaceful vacation destination located deep inside Lake Erie, also aims to capture more of the cycling tourism market, especially with the projected opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge in 2026. The mayor of Pelee Island, Cathy Miller, thinks that this bridge will certainly be a game changer for the tourism scene of the island, especially for cycling tourists who look for a safe resting point on route to another destination.

Adding to this, the Gordie Howe International Bridge, an infrastructure project worth $6.4 billion, connecting Windsor, Ontario, to Detroit, Michigan, will also accommodate an exclusive, toll-free path meant for cyclists and pedestrians. Not only will this improve connectivity between Windsor and Detroit, but it will also ensure an exclusive connection to cycling paths within both cities, making it easier for cyclists to discover more of the region. This new cross-border trail will also enable Pelee Island to capitalize on an entirely new market of cycling tourists willing to explore the beauty of Pelee Island, traveling through Michigan, Ohio, and Ontario.

Connecting Windsor, Detroit, and Pelee Island for Cycling Enthusiasts

Pelee Island, located at the southernmost point of Canada, has long been a favorite destination for cycling enthusiasts due to its scenic roads and tranquil atmosphere. The island’s roads are especially appealing to cyclists because they are relatively slow, allowing for a more relaxed and safe cycling experience. Pelee Island’s roads, some of which have speed limits as low as 15 to 30 kilometers per hour, are ideal for leisurely bike rides, where cyclists can take in the picturesque views without worrying about fast-moving traffic. In fact, the island’s residents are known for being particularly accommodating toward cyclists, with many slowing down and yielding to bikers to ensure their safety.

Mayor Miller has emphasized that Pelee Island is the perfect stop for cyclists touring around the Great Lakes, offering a serene and scenic destination along the way. The Gordie Howe International Bridge, by linking Windsor and Detroit, will become a key part of the larger Great Lakes cycling loop, which connects Michigan, Ohio, and Ontario. This cross-border loop will make Pelee Island a must-see destination for long-distance cyclists looking to take a break and explore the beauty of the island.

“The new bridge will offer cyclists the chance to explore a unique part of Canada and the U.S., combining international travel with the tranquility and beauty of Pelee Island. It will be a convenient and attractive stop on the route between Michigan, Ohio, and Ontario,” said Miller.

Increasing Cycle Tourism and Local Tourism Opportunities

Tourism experts are already seeing the potential for a surge in visitors to Pelee Island as a result of the new bridge and its dedicated cycling path. Gordon Orr, the CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI), stated that the island already attracts over 100,000 passengers annually on the Pelee Islander ferry, which transports visitors to the island. The addition of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to significantly increase these numbers, with many more cyclists likely to cross into Canada via Windsor, making Pelee Island a more accessible and appealing destination.

The new bridge also aligns with the growing trend of staycations, as more people are opting to travel closer to home. With more people seeking to explore local and regional destinations, Pelee Island is well-positioned to attract tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities and enjoy the island’s natural beauty, peace, and slow-paced lifestyle.

The development of the new bridge will also benefit local businesses, especially those in the tourism and hospitality sectors. With the increase in cyclists, there will be a demand for bike rentals, guided tours, and other cycling-related services. In addition, the island’s restaurants, accommodations, and shops will likely see more foot traffic, benefiting from the growing number of tourists visiting for cycling and leisure.

Improving Infrastructure to Accommodate Cyclists

With the surge in cycling tourism expected, there are plans to improve infrastructure on Pelee Island to accommodate the influx of cyclists. Mayor Miller recognizes the need for proper signage, maps, and amenities such as bathrooms and access to water along the cycling routes. While the island already offers a great cycling experience, these upgrades will ensure that cyclists have a more enjoyable and comfortable time during their visits.

Additionally, Pelee Island is working closely with TWEPI to promote local tourism and further enhance the cycling experience. The goal is to create a more welcoming environment for cyclists, from improving trail systems to ensuring that cyclists have access to all the necessary facilities during their stays. Local businesses are also expected to benefit from these upgrades, as tourists will be more likely to visit and spend time in a place that is well-equipped to cater to their needs.

A Vision for Sustainable Tourism Growth on Pelee Island

The Gordie Howe International Bridge not only brings opportunities for increased tourism but also offers a chance for Pelee Island to develop sustainably. The island’s government and local tourism organizations are focused on ensuring that tourism growth benefits the local community while preserving the island’s natural environment. Sustainable tourism initiatives, such as promoting eco-friendly travel options and supporting businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility, will be key to ensuring that the increase in visitors does not harm the island’s delicate ecosystem.

One potential avenue for further supporting tourism infrastructure is the implementation of a Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), as suggested by Gordon Orr of TWEPI. This tax would generate revenue that could be reinvested in tourism development, including the enhancement of infrastructure, marketing efforts, and promotion of local attractions. This would provide the island with a sustainable funding source to maintain and grow its tourism offerings in the long term.

Pelee Island’s Bright Future in Cycle Tourism

With the Gordie Howe International Bridge nearing completion in 2026, Pelee Island will become one of the key destinations for cycle tourism in the Great Lakes region. Scenic roads, slow traffic, and friendly islanders create the perfect stopover for Great Lakes loop cyclists. Where the bridge cuts a direct route from Windsor to Detroit to Pelee Island, the convenience of the bridge would make Pelee Island more accessible and, in turn, open an opportunity for the cycling enthusiast to enjoy this great natural part of Canada.

Going into the future with more cyclists and tourists visiting, Pelee Island will ensure that local infrastructure improvements and collaborations with tourism organizations are in place to keep the island a first-class destination for sustainable tourism. Pelee Island has the potential to become a must-see destination for cycling enthusiasts and travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic, and safe place to explore in Ontario, provided the right investments are made.