The best traffic-free bike rides around Memphis

There are 7 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Memphis featured in this guide, ranging from moderate to difficult in difficulty. These routes offer diverse experiences, from urban greenways to scenic park trails.

Memphis boasts several excellent greenways perfect for traffic-free road cycling. The Shelby Farms Greenline is a 10.65-mile paved trail, known for being flat, smooth, and shaded. The Wolf River Greenway is also expanding, offering scenic sections through urban forests. For a unique experience, the Mississippi River Trail includes a 32-mile segment through Shelby County, providing expansive river views.

Yes, many of Memphis's greenways and park trails are ideal for families. The Shelby Farms Greenline is particularly popular due to its flat, paved surface and amenities. Within Shelby Farms Park, the 2.75-mile Chickasaw Trail is another great option, winding through forests and past lakes. The park also offers bike rentals and facilities.

Absolutely. For a shorter loop, consider the Shelby Farms Park – Hyde Lake loop, which is about 12 km and takes you around the park's scenic areas. For a longer, more challenging ride, the Mississippi River Trail and Meeman-Shelby Forest Loop offers a substantial 124 km journey with varied terrain.

Memphis offers a mix. Many greenways like the Shelby Farms Greenline are predominantly flat and paved, making them accessible for all skill levels. However, areas like Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park feature more varied terrain, including noticeable elevation changes and short, steep climbs along the Chickasaw Bluffs, providing a more challenging experience.

Many of Memphis's greenways and park trails are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. The Shelby Farms Greenline and trails within Shelby Farms Park are popular choices for cyclists with canine companions. Always ensure to clean up after your pet.

You'll encounter diverse scenery. The Big River Crossing offers breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the Memphis skyline. Along the Wolf River Greenway, you can enjoy urban forests and river views. For cultural landmarks, routes like the Beale Street, Memphis – Fire Museum of Memphis loop take you past iconic spots like Beale Street and the Orpheum Theater.

Many popular greenways and parks offer convenient parking. For instance, the Shelby Farms Greenline has multiple access points with parking available. Shelby Farms Park itself provides ample parking for accessing its extensive trail network. For routes near the Mississippi River, parking can often be found near downtown riverfront areas.

The traffic-free road cycling routes in Memphis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of paved greenways, the beautiful natural scenery, and the sense of safety and tranquility offered by routes like the Shelby Farms Greenline and the scenic sections of the Wolf River Greenway.

Yes, several routes offer convenient access to refreshments. The Shelby Farms Greenline has amenities and places to stop along its path. For urban routes, such as the Beale Street, Memphis – Wiseacre HQ loop, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and breweries in the downtown and Midtown areas, perfect for a break.

Spring and Fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Memphis, with milder temperatures and less humidity. The shaded sections of trails like the Shelby Farms Greenline can also provide relief during warmer summer months, but it's always advisable to carry plenty of water and cycle during cooler parts of the day.