Abe Pagoda

Location: Rockliffe Parkway east of the traffic circle
https://www.strava.com/segments/27276267

​Just past the most easterly traffic circle on the Rockliffe Parkway on the right is a small archway that looks a bit like a Japanese Pagoda (or maybe a Torii Gate). You may have passed it on your road bike and thought nothing of it, but it's the opening to a pathway that takes you into the Tardis of NCC properties: A patch of woods that's bigger on the inside. 

There are a few ways to enter the trails in this area and although it's not very large on the map there's a couple of loops you can do in here which actually make this totally worth visiting. The tree canopy is high and creates a cathedral ceiling effect and a sense of great space.

The entrance through the archway leads directly to a steep climb that has a lot of rocks and roots on it. It peaks at 18% and to get up it you need to carry a bit of speed so you'll be bouncing around a bit. A mountain bike with full suspension might make this seem like nothing to an experienced rider, but novice cyclists, or even some experienced Cyclocross riders may find it faster to walk or run your bike up. I've done both. 

Once at the top there are a couple of different loops you can ride around before popping out at various points. This is a well used area, so expect people. Probably not so much on the climb where there's little chance of breaking the 20kmph speed limit anyway.