The best road cycling routes around Shorewood

There are over 140 road cycling routes around Shorewood, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find routes varying from easy to moderate difficulty.

Road cycling routes around Shorewood often follow abandoned railroad beds, providing relatively flat and smooth surfaces. You'll also find paths connecting various parks and natural areas, with gentle gradients along lake shores and some varied elevation through wooded sections.

Yes, many routes around Shorewood are suitable for families. The extensive trail networks, including sections of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, offer paved or crushed limestone surfaces that are generally safe and enjoyable for all ages. Routes with gentle gradients and scenic views are ideal for family outings.

Many routes offer picturesque views of lakes and natural areas. For example, the Riley Lake Park – Saint Albans Bay Bridge loop from Deephaven features scenic sections around Riley Lake Park and St. Albans Bay Bridge. You can also explore areas like Staring Lake and the Carver Park Reserve Trail.

Yes, many road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Saint Albans Bay Bridge – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Excelsior and the Arcola Trestle Bridge – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Excelsior.

The road cycling routes around Shorewood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic lake views, and well-maintained trails, particularly sections of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail.

Absolutely. Over 60 of the routes around Shorewood are classified as easy. A good option for beginners is the Arcola Trestle Bridge – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Excelsior, which is 21.3 miles long and takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete on an easy grade.

While specific public transport access points vary, many trails, especially those that follow former railroad beds like the Lake Minnetonka LRT Regional Trail, often have access points near urban or suburban areas. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and routes for connections to trailheads.

Many trailheads and parks along the major cycling routes, such as those connected to the Dakota Rail Regional Trail or near lakes like Riley Lake Park, offer designated parking areas. It's recommended to check specific route details on komoot for parking information at the start of your chosen tour.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking around Shorewood. During these seasons, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures and lush scenery. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the Saint Albans Bay Bridge – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Excelsior is a moderate 39.9-mile route with varied terrain. Another moderate option is the Tamarack Lake loop from Excelsior, covering 28.5 miles.

The towns and villages adjacent to the trail networks, such as Excelsior and Deephaven, offer various amenities including cafes and pubs where you can refuel or relax after your ride. Many routes pass through or near these communities, making it convenient to find refreshments.