The best road cycling routes in Rutherford County

Rutherford County offers a diverse selection of over 40 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 20 easy and 20 moderate options available for exploration.

The terrain in Rutherford County is characterized by gently rolling Blue Ridge Mountain Foothills and lightly traveled country roads. Cyclists can expect varied landscapes, including scenic river views along the Stones River and Percy Priest Lake, as well as extensive greenway systems offering paved paths.

Yes, Rutherford County has several excellent family-friendly options. The Murfreesboro Greenway is an easy, paved route perfect for families. The Murfreesboro Greenway System, with its 17 miles of paved trails, and the Smyrna Greenway System, offering almost 29 miles of trails, are also great choices for beginners and families.

Absolutely. Many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle through areas near the Stones River National Battlefield, which also offers nearly 7 miles of paths. Other natural features include the Flat Rock Cedar Glades and Barrens, and the scenic J. Percy Priest Lake.

For scenic views, consider routes that follow the Stones River or loop around J. Percy Priest Lake. The J. Percy Priest Lake loop from La Vergne is a moderate route that offers beautiful lake vistas. The region's gently rolling foothills also provide picturesque backdrops for many rides.

Yes, Rutherford County boasts robust greenway systems. The Thermal Belt Rail Trail is a 13.5-mile paved greenway. The Murfreesboro Greenway System offers 17 miles of paved trails along the Stones River, and the Smyrna Greenway System provides almost 29 miles of paved trails radiating from the Town Center. The Purple Martin Greenway in Rutherfordton also offers a charming ride.

Many routes in Rutherford County are designed as loops. For example, the Murfreesboro Greenway – Fortress Rosecrans loop from Middle Tennessee State University is a popular moderate option. Another is the Red Hill loop from Middle Tennessee, an easy route offering a good distance.

While Rutherford County is known for its gently rolling terrain, more experienced riders can find routes with greater elevation gain. The Roadbike loop from Lascassas, for instance, is a moderate route covering over 65 km with significant elevation. Routes like Camp Creek, Tour de Cherry, Chase-Cowpens, and Shiloh Loop are also highlighted by local groups for their natural beauty and light traffic.

The road cycling routes in Rutherford County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic river views, and the extensive greenway systems that cater to different ability levels.

While specific public transport connections directly to trailheads may vary, the Murfreesboro Greenway System connects various parks and neighborhoods within Murfreesboro. For detailed information on local public transport options and park access, you may consult the Murfreesboro Parks & Natural Areas website: murfreesborotn.gov.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Rutherford County offers several options. The J. Percy Priest Lake loop from La Vergne is a substantial 61.2 km (38.0 miles) route. Another option is the Red Hill – Leathers Hill loop from Middle Tennessee, which covers over 56 km (35 miles).

Rutherford County's climate generally allows for cycling through much of the year. Spring and fall often offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal for exploring the gently rolling Blue Ridge Mountain Foothills and country roads. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or evenings are still enjoyable.