The best road cycling routes around Conway

Conway offers a diverse selection of road cycling routes. Our guide features 5 highly-rated routes, but the area boasts an extensive network with many more options to explore, catering to various skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Conway has several excellent options for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. The The Hulk loop from Plantation Storage is an easy 22-mile route through rural areas. Additionally, the city's dedicated trails like the Tucker Creek Trail and the Downtown-Old Town Route offer paved, low-traffic options perfect for building confidence.

For cyclists seeking an elevation challenge, Conway offers several demanding routes. The South Hill Repeat Loop is ideal for focused climbing practice. Other routes like the Airport Loop (21 miles) feature steep rollers in the quiet hills of Pine Village, and the East Loop (31 miles) presents challenging hills in Lake View Acres. The Old Military/Round Mountain Loop (28 miles) includes Scenic Hill, known as one of Faulkner County's most difficult climbs.

Conway provides several routes for longer rides. The The Hulk – Grand Lake loop from Wal-Mart covers 52.6 miles with moderate climbs. Another great option is the Mills Pond – Pine Creek Forest Preserve loop from Guest Cottage, which is approximately 53 miles. For even longer distances, the Rocky Saltillo East Loop is a 35-mile route, and the CAB's Ride South Loop extends to 38 miles.

Many routes in Conway offer picturesque scenery. Rides around Lake Conway and Beaverfork Lake provide beautiful water views. The Rocky Saltillo East Loop offers scenic views of Conway and Faulkner County, while routes along the Arkansas River, such as those near Toad Suck Park, provide stunning river vistas and natural landscapes.

Yes, Conway has numerous loop options for road cyclists. Our guide highlights routes like the The Hulk – Grand Lake loop from Wal-Mart, the Myrtle Beach State Park – Myrtle Beach Path loop from Myrtle Beach State Park, and the The Hulk loop from Plantation Storage. The Downtown-Old Town Route is also a 3-mile loop showcasing historic areas.

Conway's road cycling terrain is quite varied, offering something for every rider. You'll find a mix of flat stretches, rolling hills, and challenging climbs, particularly in areas like Pine Village and Lake View Acres. The region also features rural paved roads and dedicated bike lanes, providing diverse riding experiences.

While our guide focuses on road cycling, Conway offers family-friendly paved trails suitable for all ages. The Tucker Creek Trail is a popular choice, extending over 3 miles with options for shorter rides. The Stone Dam Creek Trail is another 1.8-mile loop that's great for leisurely family outings.

As you cycle around Conway, you can encounter several points of interest. Routes often pass by the shores of Lake Conway, the largest man-made lake in the US, or near Beaverfork Lake. The Arkansas River is also a prominent feature, with Toad Suck Park offering scenic views. For a touch of history, Cadron Settlement Park, a National Historic Site, is nearby and provides views overlooking the river.

The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road biking in Conway, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are typically mild but can have occasional cold snaps. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

Conway is a cycling-friendly community and hosts events like the Conway Fall Classic, which features both 40-mile and 65-mile route options. These events are a great way to experience the local cycling scene and challenge yourself on well-supported routes.

Conway has earned a 'Bicycle Friendly Community' designation and has implemented a 'complete streets ordinance,' resulting in over 60 miles of bike lanes and sharrows. For more details on the city's cycling infrastructure and additional routes, you can visit the official Conway tourism website: visitconway.org.