The best cycling routes around West Memphis

There are 6 touring cycling routes available around West Memphis, offering a variety of experiences along the Mississippi River and its floodplain. These routes cater to different skill levels, including 4 easy, 1 moderate, and 1 difficult option.

The touring cycling routes around West Memphis offer a range of difficulty levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, perfect for beginners or leisurely rides, 1 moderate route for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 1 difficult route for experienced touring cyclists. The terrain is predominantly flat, which generally makes for accessible cycling.

Yes, West Memphis offers several family-friendly cycling options, particularly due to its flat terrain. Routes like the Mississippi River Greenbelt Park Loop (5.0 miles) and the Mississippi River Trail loop (10.5 miles) are rated as easy and are suitable for family outings. The Big River Trail, a 7-mile paved loop, is also ideal for family rides, offering stunning views of the Memphis skyline.

Cycling routes in West Memphis offer diverse scenery, primarily defined by its location along the Mississippi River. You can expect picturesque riverfront views, glimpses of the Memphis skyline, natural woodlands, and agricultural areas, including seasonal sunflower fields at Ducks Unlimited Park. The Mississippi River Trail to Meeman-Shelby Forest route, for example, provides extensive river views and connects to a state forest.

Yes, West Memphis features several excellent loop routes for touring cyclists. The Mississippi River Greenbelt Park Loop is a shorter, easy option, while the Mississippi River Trail loop offers a longer, easy ride. For a more challenging and extensive loop, consider the Mississippi River Trail: Horseshoe Lake Loop, which covers 77.5 miles.

While cycling in West Memphis, you can explore several significant landmarks and attractions. The iconic Big River Crossing connects West Memphis to downtown Memphis, offering breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. You can also visit Beale Street, the Orpheum Theater, the National Civil Rights Museum, and the Blues Hall of Fame in nearby Memphis. Ducks Unlimited Park also offers scenic views and seasonal sunflower fields.

Parking is generally accessible for bike trails in West Memphis. The Big River Trailhead is a convenient access point with parking available. Additionally, many local parks like Tilden Rodgers Park, Worthington Park, Hicks Park, and Matthews Park offer amenities and potential parking for shorter rides. For more information on local parks and facilities, you can visit the West Memphis city website: westmemphisar.gov.

Yes, if you don't have your own bike, the Explore Bike Share program provides convenient bike rentals in West Memphis. You can find bike share stations located at the Big River Trailhead and near the Big River Crossing, making it easy to start your cycling adventure.

The best time for touring cycling in West Memphis often depends on personal preference, but spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures. These seasons avoid the intense heat and humidity of summer, making for more enjoyable rides. Visiting in late summer or early fall might also allow you to see the seasonal sunflower fields at Ducks Unlimited Park.

Yes, for long-distance touring cyclists, U.S. Bicycle Route 80 (USBR 80) passes directly through West Memphis. This route begins at the Tennessee State line and continues through various Arkansas cities, predominantly featuring paved surfaces suitable for extended touring.

Touring cyclists often praise West Memphis for its unique riverfront location and the extensive views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. The flat terrain is frequently highlighted as ideal for touring, making routes accessible and enjoyable. The connection to the Big River Crossing and the broader Mississippi River Trail network are also popular features.