The best road cycling routes around St. Paul Park

St. Paul Park offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 25 routes available for exploration. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy scenic rides to more challenging excursions.

The region provides a diverse cycling experience. You'll find many flat, paved trails, especially along the Mississippi River. However, for those seeking a challenge, routes like Ohio Street and Mounds Boulevard offer significant climbs rewarded with stunning vistas over the river bluffs. The landscape includes river valleys, urban green spaces, and connections to several lakes.

Yes, St. Paul Park is very accommodating for all skill levels. There are 13 easy routes available, perfect for beginners or those preferring a relaxed pace. A great option is the Mississippi River Greenway Loop, an easy 22.7-mile trail that follows the scenic river.

For cyclists looking for longer distances, the area offers several extended routes. The Mississippi River Trail: Red Wing Loop is a challenging 89.7-mile route, providing a substantial journey. Another option is the Mississippi River Greenway, a moderate 33.7-mile path offering varied landscapes along the river.

Road cycling routes in St. Paul Park offer access to numerous natural features and scenic viewpoints. You can enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River Gorge along the Mississippi River Boulevard Trail. Notable viewpoints include Schaar's Bluff and the View of the Mississippi River. The region also features protected areas like Pine Bend Bluff SNA and the Spring Lake Park Bison Reintroduction Area.

Yes, many routes in St. Paul Park are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. The Mississippi River Greenway Loop and the Raspberry Island – Kaposia Landing loop from South Saint Paul are popular choices for circular rides.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive and well-maintained network of trails, the diverse natural landscapes including the Mississippi River bluffs, and the numerous lakes and green spaces that make for a scenic ride.

Absolutely. St. Paul Park offers many flat, paved, and family-friendly routes, especially along the river and within its numerous parks. Trails around Como Lake Park and Lake Phalen are particularly popular for families, providing pleasant and safe cycling experiences.

The trail system in St. Paul Park seamlessly connects various parks and historic landmarks. For example, the Mississippi River Boulevard Trail provides access to Hidden Falls Regional Park and Ford Parkway. You can also explore parks like Spring Lake Park Reserve and Battle Creek Regional Park, which are part of the extensive network.

Yes, St. Paul Park's extensive park system ensures good accessibility for cyclists. Many parks along the major trails, such as Crosby Farm Park, Como Lake Park, and those along the Mississippi River, offer designated parking areas, making it convenient to start your ride.

St. Paul's trail network is well-integrated within the urban environment, and many trails offer connections to downtown Saint Paul, making them accessible via public transport. The Bruce Vento Trail, for instance, connects to downtown and other key areas, providing options for reaching the trails without a car.

Yes, for advanced riders seeking a challenge, St. Paul Park offers routes with significant elevation changes. The region's bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River provide opportunities for vigorous rides, such as those found on routes like Ohio Street and Mounds Boulevard. There is one difficult route listed, the Mississippi River Trail: Red Wing Loop, which is 89.7 miles long with substantial elevation gain.