The best gravel rides around Lincoln

Lincoln offers a diverse network of gravel biking opportunities, with nearly 10 curated routes available on komoot. The region boasts an extensive trail system, featuring over 185 miles of paths, with more than 144 miles being hard surface and crushed rock, perfect for gravel riding.

Yes, Lincoln has several easy gravel trails. A great option for beginners or families is the Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Skellingthorpe. This 14.2-mile path follows the historic Fossdyke Navigation, offering flat and accessible riding. The Rock Island Trail, a 4-mile path near downtown, is also popular and extends into longer loops.

For longer rides, consider routes that venture into the rural farmlands of Southeastern Nebraska, which offer opportunities for endurance rides with significant climbing. The The Dukeries Trail – Thorpe Lake Beach loop from Hykeham is a moderate 35.1-mile route with varied terrain. Another option is the Mo-Pac Trail, which extends 25 miles from Lincoln to Wabash, or its 43.5-mile out-and-back variant.

While many routes are moderate, Lincoln's varied terrain includes rolling hills that add a dynamic element. The The Lady of Shalott Sculpture – Bardney Lock loop from Fiskerton CP is a 23.5-mile route rated as difficult, leading through rural landscapes and along waterways, offering a more demanding experience.

Lincoln offers good gravel biking conditions across multiple seasons. Spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, the extensive trail system, including crushed rock paths, makes winter gravel biking possible, though conditions may vary with snow and ice.

Yes, many of Lincoln's gravel routes are designed as loops. For example, the The Dukeries Trail – Thorpe Lake Beach loop from Hykeham and the Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Skellingthorpe are both excellent circular options, allowing you to start and end at the same point.

Lincoln's gravel trails often pass through or near beautiful natural and historical sites. You can ride past the historic Lincoln Cathedral and High Bridge (The Glory Hole) on routes like the Lincoln Cathedral – Lincoln Castle loop from Lincoln. Other trails may lead you through areas like Hartsholme Park or past Brayford Pool.

Yes, some routes offer convenient stops for refreshments. The Fossdyke Navigation – The Pyewipe Inn loop from Skellingthorpe, for instance, passes by The Pyewipe Inn, a popular spot for a break and a meal.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive trail networks, the varied terrain from flat paths along waterways to rolling hills, and the opportunities to explore rural farmlands and natural areas like Wilderness Park.

Absolutely. Lincoln is rich in parks and nature centers. Wilderness Park offers specific routes for biking, including easy gravel and flowy singletrack sections. Other notable areas include Pioneers Park, Holmes Park & Lake, and the Lincoln Saline Wetlands Nature Center, which are great for exploring on two wheels.

Many routes in Lincoln feature lakes and waterways. The The Dukeries Trail – Thorpe Lake Beach loop from Hykeham includes a lake feature. Additionally, the region has several lakes and state recreation areas like Branched Oak Lake, Pawnee State Recreation Park, and Holmes Park & Lake, which often have trails around them.