The best cycling routes around Oak Ridge
5.0
(21)
61
riders
3
rides
Touring cycling routes around Oak Ridge traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, greenways, and natural preserves. The region features varied terrain, including moderate ascents and descents, with routes often following waterways and through wooded areas. This area provides a mix of paved paths and quieter roads suitable for touring cyclists seeking diverse environments.
Best touring cycling routes around Oak Ridge
- The most popular touring cycling route is Pleasant Ridge loop, a 25.1 miles (40.4 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: September 27, 2026
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(19)
44
riders
27.2km
01:39
230m
230m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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(2)
11
riders
12.8km
00:46
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
25.1km
01:34
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
30.0km
01:47
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
51.7km
03:08
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Tips from the Community
Along the 2.25-mile loop road you can explore Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. This paved path features eight tour stops, monuments, and access to interior trails. For safety, run on the left side, as bikes and cars travel one-way on the right. The pedestrian side is clearly marked.
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Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, preserves the site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle fought on March 15, 1781. Though technically a British victory, the Battle of Guilford Courthouse severely weakened British forces, setting the stage for their eventual surrender at Yorktown. The park features monuments, interpretive trails, and a visitor center with exhibits on the Southern Campaign. For cyclists, the park has a 2.25-mile auto tour loop that's bike-friendly, winding through wooded terrain and past key battle landmarks. It’s a peaceful ride with gentle grades and plenty of historical stops to explore along the way.
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Along the 2.25-mile loop road you can explore Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. This paved path features eight tour stops, monuments, and access to interior trails. For safety, walk on the left side, as bikes and cars travel one-way on the right. The pedestrian side is clearly marked.
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There's a pretty wood and metal bridge across Horsepen Creek here. It's a product of the old railway that formed the basis of what is, today, the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway. This route is popular with runners, walkers, and cyclists.
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The Bald Eagle Trail is a dedicated mountain bike trail. It is perfect for beginners without too many technical sections and is mostly flat. At the Long Valley Road Entrance there is a map of the trail with more information. There is no official parking but there are some places where you could leave a car nearby.
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Price Park is a nice green space with several different trails in it. It is a nice place to visit for a hike or just to enjoy nature. There is a public library in the park with parking.
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This paved greenway runs for more than 14 miles altogether, connecting the North Carolina cities of Greensboro and High Point. This stretch is a mix of biking along the road and traversing a paved, non-motorized trail that runs along a creek, which pretty much characterizes the mixed character of this trail overall. You can link this greenway with several other major trails in the area, including the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway and the Mountains to Sea route.
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This paved greenway runs for more than 14 miles altogether, connecting the North Carolina cities of Greensboro and High Point. This stretch is a mix of biking along the road and traversing a paved, non-motorized trail that runs along a creek, which pretty much characterizes the mixed character of this trail overall. You can link this greenway with several other major trails in the area, including the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway and the Mountains to Sea route.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Oak Ridge?
Oak Ridge offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes. You'll find a balanced mix, with 2 moderate routes and 2 difficult routes. This variety ensures options for different skill levels, from those seeking a steady ride to cyclists looking for more significant elevation changes.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Oak Ridge?
While the guide highlights moderate and difficult routes, the region's greenways and rolling hills often provide sections suitable for beginners. For a good starting point, consider exploring parts of routes that follow flatter greenway sections, though specific easy-rated touring routes are not detailed in this selection.
Where can I find more challenging touring cycling routes in Oak Ridge?
For a more challenging experience, consider the Cascades Preserve loop from Quarry Road. This difficult 43.6-mile (70.1 km) path features significant elevation changes and extends through natural preserve areas. Another difficult option is the Lake Brandt – Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway loop from Strawberry Road Trailhead.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Oak Ridge?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Oak Ridge are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Pleasant Ridge loop, the challenging Cascades Preserve loop from Quarry Road, and the Bicentennial Greenway – Pisgah Hill loop from Bank of America.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes in Oak Ridge?
The routes often pass through scenic areas. You might encounter highlights such as the Nat Greene Trail, the Horsepen Creek from the Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway, and the picturesque Lake Brandt. For a notable natural feature, the Cascades Preserve Waterfall is also accessible in the wider area.
Are there routes that pass by lakes or waterfalls?
Yes, several routes offer views of water features. Lake Brandt is a prominent feature in the region, and routes like the Lake Brandt – Atlantic and Yadkin Greenway loop from Strawberry Road Trailhead incorporate it. Additionally, the Cascades Preserve Waterfall is a notable attraction near some routes, particularly the Cascades Preserve loop.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Oak Ridge?
Given the region's rolling hills and wooded areas, spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant touring cycling conditions in Oak Ridge, with milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the peak heat.
Is touring cycling possible during winter in Oak Ridge?
Touring cycling in Oak Ridge during winter is possible, but conditions can vary. While the region doesn't typically experience heavy, prolonged snow, temperatures can drop, and some paths might be damp or icy. It's recommended to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out and to dress in appropriate layers.
Are there long-distance touring cycling routes available in Oak Ridge?
For those seeking longer rides, the Cascades Preserve loop from Quarry Road is a substantial option at 43.6 miles (70.1 km). Another good choice for a longer tour is the Bike loop from Cardinal Cove, which covers 32.1 miles (51.7 km).
What do other touring cyclists appreciate about the routes in Oak Ridge?
The touring cycling routes in Oak Ridge are highly regarded by the komoot community. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes greenways, natural preserves, and rolling hills, offering a dynamic riding experience. The network provides options for different ability levels, ensuring there's something for everyone.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Oak Ridge?
There are over 4 touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Oak Ridge area, offering a range of distances and difficulties to explore the region's diverse landscape.
Most popular routes around Oak Ridge
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