The best cycling routes in Sherburne County

Sherburne County offers diverse landscapes for touring cyclists, including restored prairies, oak savannas, oak forests, and wetlands. Many routes feature sections along the Mississippi River. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for various cycling abilities.

Yes, Sherburne County is very accommodating for easy rides. Out of the 11 touring cycling routes available, 10 are rated as easy. An example is the Monty Python loop from Bertram Chain of Lakes Mountain Bike Trailhead, which is just over 6 km long.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Lake Wobegon Regional Trail loop from Waite Park is a moderate route spanning 37.1 km, typically taking over 2 hours to complete. This route offers a good distance through varied landscapes.

The touring cycling routes in Sherburne County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 6 reviews. Cyclists often appreciate the diverse mix of prairies, oak forests, and wetlands, as well as the accessible, generally flat terrain.

Yes, many routes in Sherburne County are designed as loops. For instance, you can explore the Woodland Trails Park – Lion's Park loop from Elk River Country Club, which is a 25.4 km ride through woods, prairies, and wetlands.

Along your rides, you can encounter significant natural features like the Mississippi River. The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge offers extensive wildlife habitats and opportunities for nature observation, including the Prairie's Edge Wildlife Drive loop. Many routes also pass through restored prairies, oak savannas, and wetlands.

Yes, several areas in Sherburne County provide views of the Mississippi River. Bridgeview Park Reserve, for example, features vistas overlooking the river. While specific touring routes may vary, the general region offers opportunities to cycle near this major waterway.

Parking is available at various trailheads and parks. A convenient option is the Woodland Trails Park Trailhead, which serves as a starting point for routes like the Woodland Trails Park – Lion's Park loop.

Given that 10 out of 11 routes are rated as easy and the terrain is generally flat, Sherburne County is well-suited for family-friendly touring cycling. The Great Northern Regional Trail, a paved path, is particularly popular for biking and walking, offering an accessible surface for all ages.

Absolutely. Sherburne County is known for its diverse ecosystems. Routes often traverse a mix of restored prairies, oak savannas, oak forests, and wetlands. The Rum River Regional Trail – Anoka Nature Preserve loop from Ramsey, for instance, provides scenic views along the Rum River and through natural preserves.

The Great Northern Regional Trail is a significant paved trail in Sherburne County, currently extending 8.5 miles from Elk River to Zimmerman. It's part of an ambitious plan to create a longer 30-mile route along a historic railroad bed, eventually connecting to St. Cloud and Milaca. This trail is ideal for touring cyclists seeking a flat and accessible path.

Some parks and trailheads offer facilities. For example, the Zimmerman Lions Club Memorial Park and the Nature Play Area are listed as having facilities that cyclists might find useful.