The best cycling routes in Bastrop County
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Touring cycling in Bastrop County offers routes through a diverse landscape in Central Texas. The region is characterized by the unique Lost Pines Forest, an isolated stand of loblolly pines, and the Colorado River which carves through the county. Terrain includes a mix of sandy soils, dissected uplands, and areas with hilly and winding roads. Lakes such as Lake Bastrop and the smaller lake in Buescher State Park also feature in the natural environment.
Best touring cycling routes in Bastrop…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
1.66km
00:08
20m
20m
The COTA Track Loop offers a unique touring cycling experience on a world-class Formula 1 circuit. This easy route covers 1.0 miles (1.7 km) with a gentle elevation gain of…
81.6km
05:03
420m
420m
Cycle the challenging 50.7-mile Bastrop and Buescher State Parks Loop through the unique Lost Pines ecosystem.
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15.1km
01:11
110m
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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38.2km
02:20
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
37.9km
02:14
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures in Bastrop County
Tips from the Community
Buescher State Park sits on 1,016 acres, with 30 acres of it comprising Buescher Lake. The park offers fishing, boating, a swimming pool, and hiking/mountain bike trails. Additionally, the 12-mile road between Buescher and Bastrop State Parks is ideal for road cycling.
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Buescher Lake is stocked with fish and open for canoeing, and swimming. Trails are open for mountain biking except CCC Crossover and Big Tree Trace.
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Rocky Hill Ranch boasts 13 miles of exhilarating single-track trails for mountain biking, trail running, and hiking. The ranch, founded in 1993 by Grey and Pam Hill, is known as the "Mountain Biking and Outdoor Events Capital of Texas!"
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Buescher Lake dominates the southern section of Buescher State Park. There are various facilities around the lake, including a playground, picnic areas and campsites. The Winding Woodland Trail ventures into the undeveloped land to the north and connects to the Pine Gulch Trail, where you'll find towering loblolly pines.
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Buescher Lake dominates the southern section of Buescher State Park. There are various facilities around the lake, including a playground, picnic areas and campsites. The Winding Woodland Trail ventures into the undeveloped land to the north and connects to the Pine Gulch Trail, where you'll find towering loblolly pines.
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Bastrop State Park has been a popular outdoor space for many generations. However, the park has been impacted by forest fires and floods in recent years and is currently recovering. There are many cabins and camping spots in the western end of the park, while the Lost Pines Trail explores the more serene eastern end of the park.
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Just stunning roads to ride a bike! Lovely and smooth, great undulation - an absolute pleasure.
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A fun place to ride a bike east of the city. Lush and green with great views, and the ride out from Austin is great too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Bastrop County?
There are over 9 touring cycling routes documented in Bastrop County on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Bastrop County?
Bastrop County offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find routes winding through the unique Lost Pines Forest, alongside the scenic Colorado River, and around lakes like Lake Bastrop. The landscape includes a mix of sandy soils, dissected uplands, and areas with hilly and winding roads, providing both challenging and more relaxed rides.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Bastrop County has several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Circuit of the Americas loop from Circuit of The Americas is an easy 12.2 km ride. Another accessible option is the Winding Woodland Trail – Buescher State Park Lake loop from Smithville, which is 12.6 km long and also rated easy.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes showcase Bastrop County's unique natural beauty. You can cycle through the Lost Pines Forest, an isolated stand of loblolly pines, or along sections of the Colorado River. Parks like Buescher State Park and Bastrop State Park are prominent features, offering scenic views and opportunities to explore. You might also encounter areas like Pine Gulch within the parks.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Flying Armadillo Field loop — Smithville is a difficult 81.6 km route with significant elevation gain. Additionally, the scenic Park Road 1C connecting Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park is known for its hilly and winding terrain, ideal for experienced riders.
Are there any loop routes available for touring cyclists?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Bastrop County are designed as loops. Examples include the Bastrop State Park loop from Smithville, a moderate 40.4 km ride, and the Rocky Hill Ranch loop from Hunt Branch, which is a moderate 33.2 km route.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bastrop County?
The touring cycling routes in Bastrop County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Cyclists often praise the unique experience of riding through the Lost Pines Forest and the varied terrain that offers options for different skill levels.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Bastrop County?
Many state parks and recreational areas in Bastrop County offer dedicated parking for visitors. For example, Bastrop State Park, Buescher State Park, and Lake Bastrop North and South Shore Parks all provide parking facilities, often near trailheads. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's website for detailed parking information before your visit.
Are there opportunities for gravel riding in Bastrop County?
Yes, for those who enjoy gravel riding, there are popular routes available out by McDade, which is about 15 miles from Bastrop. These areas offer unpaved roads and trails suitable for gravel bikes.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Bastrop County?
The best times for touring cycling in Bastrop County are typically during the cooler months of fall, winter, and spring (October through April). Summers can be very hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are preferable if cycling during that season. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Are there any multi-use trails that touring cyclists can use?
Yes, several parks in Bastrop County feature multi-use trails. Lake Bastrop North Shore Park has a 4-mile hike and bike trail, and Lake Bastrop South Shore Park offers excellent unpaved paths like the Gideon Loop Multi-Trail. McKinney Roughs Nature Park also provides a multi-use trail system with scenic views.
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