The best road cycling routes around Saint John's

There are over 40 road cycling routes around Saint John's, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include 9 easy routes, 31 moderate routes, and 3 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.

Road cycling in Saint John's features varied terrain due to its location within the Appalachian landform region. You'll encounter rolling hills, offering both challenging climbs and scenic descents, especially on routes leading to coastal areas. Some routes also utilize flatter shared-use paths within the city.

The months of June and August are particularly popular for road cycling in Saint John's. During this period, the weather is generally more favorable, allowing cyclists to fully enjoy the coastal views and varied terrain.

Yes, Saint John's offers several easier road cycling options. For instance, the Gull Pond and Hogan's Pond loop from St. John's is an easy 28.6 km route with moderate elevation. Additionally, sections of the Grand Concourse network, like the T'railway along the Waterford River, provide flatter, shared-use paths.

For challenging rides with significant elevation, focus on routes that incorporate Cape Spear. The Cape Spear Lighthouse – Petty Harbour loop from PAL Airlines is a difficult 62.4 km route with over 940m of elevation gain. Other challenging options include the The Flats – Cape Spear Lighthouse loop from St. John's, which features 741m of climbing over 34.9 km.

Many routes offer stunning views. You can cycle past iconic landmarks like Cabot Tower on Signal Hill, offering panoramic views of the harbor. Coastal routes often provide dramatic ocean vistas, especially around Cape Spear, the most easterly point in North America. The historic Quidi Vidi Village also offers picturesque scenery.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Saint John's are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Cape Spear Lighthouse – Petty Harbour loop from PAL Airlines and the easier Gull Pond and Hogan's Pond loop from St. John's. The 4 km loop around Quidi Vidi Lake is also a popular, flat option.

Parking is generally available at various points around Saint John's, particularly near popular trailheads and attractions. Many routes start from within the city or from areas with accessible parking, though specific availability can vary by location.

The city of St. John's has a public transit system, Metrobus, which may offer access to areas near some cycling routes. However, specific provisions for transporting bicycles on public transport should be verified with Metrobus directly, as policies can vary.

For families, the flatter, shared-use paths are ideal. The 4 km circular trail around Quidi Vidi Lake is an easygoing option with wide gravel paths. Additionally, sections of the Grand Concourse network, such as the T'railway along the Waterford River, offer paved or crushed rock surfaces suitable for a more relaxed family ride.

Saint John's offers several spots for refreshments. Quidi Vidi Village, a charming fishing village, is home to Quidi Vidi Brewing Co., a popular stop. Petty Harbour, another picturesque village often included in longer coastal routes, also has local establishments where you can refuel.

The road cycling routes in Saint John's are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 7 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic coastal landscapes, the varied terrain that offers both challenge and beauty, and the opportunity to explore historic villages and iconic landmarks like Cape Spear.