The best road cycling routes in Sherburne County

Sherburne County offers a selection of 6 road cycling routes on komoot, catering to various preferences. These include 2 easy routes and 4 moderate routes, providing options for different skill levels.

Road cycling in Sherburne County features diverse landscapes, including restored prairies, oak savannas, oak forests, wetlands, and riverine habitats along the Mississippi River. You'll find a mix of flat, paved trails and routes with rolling topography and gentle elevation changes, offering varied scenic backdrops.

Yes, Sherburne County has routes perfect for beginners. For an easy ride, consider the Roadbike loop from Saint Cloud, which is 18.1 miles (29.1 km) long. Another accessible option is the Fuller Lake loop from Clearwater, spanning 15.1 miles (24.3 km).

The best time for road cycling in Sherburne County is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers lush scenery, while spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for cycling. Brande Road within the refuge is open for biking during certain times of the year, allowing cyclists to immerse themselves in this natural setting of oak savanna, prairie, forests, and wetlands. For more information on the refuge, visit fws.gov/refuge/sherburne. You can also find the refuge listed as a highlight here: Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge.

Yes, several routes offer views and access to the Mississippi River. The Ferry Street underpass – Dayton River Road loop from West Twin Lake is a moderate 34.0-mile (54.8 km) path that provides varied terrain and views along the river corridor. The Beaver Island Trail, though starting from St. Cloud, also offers picturesque paved cycling along the river.

For families, the paved sections of trails like the Great Northern Regional Trail and Woodland Trails Park are excellent choices. These trails offer smooth surfaces and pass through pleasant natural settings, making them suitable for cyclists of all ages. The easy routes mentioned previously, such as the Fuller Lake loop from Clearwater, are also good options.

Parking is available at various access points for trails and parks throughout Sherburne County. For example, the Woodland Trails Park Trailhead offers convenient parking. Many local parks and trailheads provide designated parking areas for cyclists.

Sherburne County's routes often pass through beautiful natural areas. You might cycle through restored prairies, oak savannas, and wetlands, or along the Mississippi River, where you can spot bald eagles and trumpeter swans. The Great Northern Regional Trail, for instance, passes through woodlands and by ponds, offering a pleasant experience.

For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, Sherburne County offers several moderate routes. The Rum River Regional Trail – Ferry Street underpass loop from 96 Av N is a substantial 48.0-mile (77.3 km) route, often completed in about 3 hours and 9 minutes, leading through areas near the Rum River. Another option is the Dayton River Road – Ferry Street underpass loop from #1201, which covers 33.3 miles (53.6 km).

Yes, you'll find various parks and facilities along or near the cycling routes. For example, Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park and Nature Play Area offer amenities. Many routes also connect to or pass through county parks that may provide restrooms, picnic areas, or other services.