The best road cycling routes around St. Paul

St. Paul offers a diverse road cycling landscape. You'll find a mix of paved urban trails, historic avenues like Summit Avenue with its Victorian homes, and routes winding through extensive green spaces and lakes. The prominent Mississippi River corridor provides scenic bluffs and bottomlands, ensuring varied terrain for your ride.

There are over 10 road cycling routes documented in St. Paul, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. These routes leverage the city's extensive network of bike-friendly trails and roads, which spans over 200 miles.

Yes, St. Paul has several easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride. For instance, the Allen Old Stone Dam – Trail in the Woods loop from Chandler Elementary School is an easy 15.4-mile (24.7 km) route through wooded areas. Another option is the Pond view – Breckinridge Park loop from Murphy, an 11.6-mile (18.7 km) trail leading through parkland.

St. Paul's routes offer numerous scenic highlights. You can cycle along the Mississippi River Boulevard Trail for panoramic views of the Mississippi River Gorge, or explore Summit Avenue to see the country's longest collection of Victorian homes. Parks like Como Park and Lake Phalen also offer beautiful lake views and gardens. You might also encounter natural features like Bob Woodruff Park Pond or the expansive Lavon Lake.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Oak Point Park Pond – Big Lake Park loop from Lovejoy High School is a moderate 35.2-mile (56.6 km) path that connects various parks and lakes, offering varied terrain. The Gateway State Trail also provides an 18-mile multi-use trail extending northeast from St. Paul, ideal for longer rides.

The road cycling routes in St. Paul are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, scenic riverfront views, and the excellent urban connectivity that allows for diverse riding experiences.

Yes, many routes in St. Paul are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Allen Old Stone Dam – Trail in the Woods loop and the Breckinridge Park loop from Murphy, both providing circular journeys through the region's natural beauty.

While specific seasonal considerations can vary, St. Paul's extensive park system and trails are generally enjoyable from spring through fall. The mild temperatures and vibrant foliage during these seasons make for pleasant riding conditions. Winter cycling is also possible on cleared paths, but conditions will be colder.

St. Paul is known for its excellent urban connectivity. Trails like the Mississippi River Boulevard Trail link various parks along the river, including Hidden Falls Regional Park. The Sam Morgan Regional Trail connects Harriet Island to other parks like Indian Mounds Regional Park, and the Robert Piram Regional Trail extends this network further, providing seamless access across different areas.

Absolutely. St. Paul's landscape is rich with lakes and riverfronts. Routes often pass by or around prominent water bodies such as Lake Phalen and Como Lake, offering beautiful views and refreshing stops. The Mississippi River itself is a central feature, with many trails running alongside it.

Beyond the Mississippi River's bluffs and bottomlands, you'll encounter diverse natural features. Many routes traverse wooded areas, offering glimpses of local wildlife. Parks like Crosby Farm Park and Hidden Falls Regional Park are nature preserves with rich ecosystems. You might also pass by various ponds and smaller lakes, such as Bob Woodruff Park Pond.

Yes, St. Paul's routes often blend natural beauty with historical significance. Cycling along Summit Avenue allows you to admire historic Victorian architecture. Indian Mounds Regional Park features prehistoric Native American burial mounds overlooking the Mississippi River, offering a unique cultural experience alongside stunning views of downtown St. Paul.