The best cycling routes in Denton County

Denton County offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 35 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including more than 25 easy routes and over 10 moderate routes.

The terrain in Denton County is generally characterized by gentle rolling hills and flat sections, making it ideal for touring cycling. Many routes feature paved paths, while others, like the McCord Park — Gravel section – McCord Trail loop from Little Elm High School, incorporate gravel sections for a varied experience. You'll often find yourself cycling through lush woods, open prairies, and along the shores of the county's major lakes.

Yes, Denton County has many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. An excellent option is the DCTA A Train Trail, an easy 19.3-mile (31.1 km) concrete path connecting Denton and Lewisville, offering pleasant lake views. Another good choice is the A-train Rail Trail – Lewisville Lake Bridge loop from Downtown Denton Transit Center, which is 34 km long and also considered easy.

For those seeking longer rides, Denton County offers several options. The Denton to Little Elm loop via Lewisville Lake toll bridge is a substantial 47.6-mile (76.7 km) route, providing extensive views around Lewisville Lake. Another popular longer route is the Lewisville Lake loop via Little Elm, which covers 37.7 miles (60.7 km) and offers diverse natural scenery.

Many touring cycling routes in Denton County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lewisville Lake loop via Little Elm, the Lewisville Lake toll bridge loop from Denton, and the A-train Rail Trail – Lewisville Lake Bridge loop from Downtown Denton Transit Center. These loops provide convenient ways to explore the area's scenic beauty.

Denton County's touring cycling routes offer access to numerous natural features and landmarks. You can enjoy views of the three major lakes: Lewisville, Ray Roberts, and Grapevine. Highlights include the Historic 428 Bridge, the North Shore Trail at Grapevine Lake, and the Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. Many routes also pass through bottomland hardwood forests, upland prairies, and along winding creeks, offering diverse scenery.

Yes, Denton County has several family-friendly cycling options. Many trails are paved and relatively flat, making them suitable for all ages. The Denton Katy Rail Trail, for instance, is a 5-mile paved, flat, and family-friendly trail. The Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center also offers 10 miles of trails suitable for families to experience native plants and wildlife.

Many multi-use trails in Denton County are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. It's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out, but generally, trails like those in the Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center or along the DCTA A-train Rail Trail are welcoming to leashed pets. Remember to bring water for your dog and clean up after them.

The spring and fall months are generally considered the best time for touring cycling in Denton County. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and you can enjoy blooming wildflowers in spring or comfortable temperatures in autumn. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be chilly, so plan accordingly with appropriate gear and hydration.

Many touring cycling routes in Denton County have designated parking areas at trailheads or nearby parks. For example, routes like the A-train Rail Trail – Lewisville Lake Bridge loop from Downtown Denton Transit Center often start from transit centers or public parks with parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for specific parking information.

The touring cycling experience in Denton County is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse natural scenery, the well-maintained paved paths, and the beautiful lake views. The variety of routes, from easy to moderate, also makes it a popular destination for different skill levels.

Absolutely, Lewisville Lake is a central feature for many touring cycling routes in Denton County. Routes such as the Lewisville Lake loop via Little Elm, the Denton to Little Elm loop via Lewisville Lake toll bridge, and the Lewisville Lake toll bridge loop from Denton all offer extensive and scenic views of the lake, often incorporating the Lewisville Lake Bridge.