The best cycling routes in Ramsey County

Ramsey County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 170 routes available on komoot. This includes a diverse range of options, from easy rides to more challenging distances.

Ramsey County is an excellent destination for touring cyclists due to its extensive network of paved multi-use trails, diverse landscapes, and significant frontage along the Mississippi River. The region features numerous lakes, wetlands, and woodlands, offering varied scenery from flat river paths to gently rolling terrain. Historically, parts of the county included oak savannas and tallgrass prairies, contributing to the rich natural environment you'll experience on your rides.

Yes, Ramsey County has many easy touring cycling routes, with over 100 options suitable for beginners and families. A great example is the Lake Links Trail, which is 10.2 miles (16.4 km) long and offers a pleasant ride around local lakes. Many trails are paved and multi-use, making them accessible for various skill levels.

Absolutely. Many routes in Ramsey County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Mississippi River Trail Loop, an easy 24.5 miles (39.5 km) route offering diverse scenery along the river. Another option is the Gateway and Brown's Creek Trail Loop, a moderate 39.0 miles (62.7 km) trail that takes you through urban areas, woods, and wetlands.

For those looking for a longer ride, the Gateway and Brown's Creek Trail Loop is a substantial 39.0 miles (62.7 km) route. Another excellent option is the St. Paul to White Bear Lake loop, which covers 35.5 miles (57.2 km) and offers varied scenery between the city and the lake.

Many routes in Ramsey County boast beautiful scenery. The Saint Paul Grand Round offers views of the Mississippi River and city landmarks. The Mississippi River corridor itself is a prominent natural feature, providing picturesque views along many trails. Parks like Indian Mounds Regional Park offer views of the Mississippi River and the Saint Paul skyline, while Rice Creek North Regional Trail provides varied scenery including woods, prairies, and marshes.

Yes, Ramsey County's routes pass by several notable attractions. You can cycle past beautiful water bodies like Lake Phalen and Como Lake. The Battle Creek Regional Park offers both paved trails and natural beauty. For urban parks with river views, consider visiting Harriet Island Regional Park or exploring the tranquil Hidden Falls Creek.

The touring cycling routes in Ramsey County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 170 reviews. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of paved multi-use trails, the diverse landscapes along the Mississippi River, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.

The Mississippi River is a central feature of Ramsey County's cycling landscape. Routes like the Mississippi River loop via Franklin Avenue Bridge offer direct views of the river. The Big Rivers and Mississippi River Trail Loop also provides excellent opportunities to experience this iconic waterway. The Mississippi River Gorge Regional Park, though not a specific komoot route listed here, is known for its hiking and biking paths along the only gorge on the Mississippi.

Yes, Ramsey County's trails are known for their varied scenery. You can find routes that transition from urban areas to woods, parks, fields, wetlands, and lakes. The Gateway and Brown's Creek Trail Loop is a prime example, showcasing a mix of these environments. The county's natural features include remnants of oak savannas, tallgrass prairies, and deciduous forests, all of which can be experienced on different sections of the trail network.

While Ramsey County is known for its accessible trails, there are routes that offer a more moderate challenge, often due to their length or elevation changes. For instance, the Saint Paul Grand Round is a moderate 30.2 miles (48.7 km) path. There are 64 moderate routes and 8 difficult routes available on komoot, providing options for those seeking a more strenuous ride.