The best road cycling routes around Lake Travis
4.5
(38)
246
riders
23
rides
Road cycling routes around Lake Travis offer diverse terrain within the Texas Hill Country. The region is characterized by rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and views of the expansive lake. Road cyclists can expect routes that navigate through wooded areas and open landscapes, with varying elevation changes. The area provides a mix of challenging climbs and flatter sections suitable for different skill levels.
Best road cycling routes around Lake Travis
- The most popular road cycling route is Violet Crown Pace Bend x4 loop, a 24.9 miles (40.0 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete. This moderate route features rolling terrain and lake views.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Spicewood Parkway – Cedar Crest Drive loop from Mansfield Dam, a moderate 29.2 miles (47.0 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gain and passes through scenic Hill Country landscapes.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bull Creek District Park – Bull Creek loop from Mansfield Dam, a 38.6 miles (62.0 km) trail leading through varied terrain with climbs, often completed in about 3 hours 29 minutes.
- Road cycling around Lake Travis is defined by rolling hills, lakefront stretches, and wooded sections, offering options for different ability levels from easy spins to more challenging rides.
- The routes in Lake Travis are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Travis's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
40.0km
02:09
240m
240m
Cycle the moderate 24.9-mile Violet Crown Pace Bend x4 loop in Pace Bend Park, enjoying stunning Lake Travis views on this road cycling rout
3.0
(1)
24
riders
50.8km
02:42
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
12
riders
47.0km
02:43
420m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
68.9km
03:32
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Great place to hike if you are an Audubon member or can go with one.
0
0
It's a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and just get some exercise. Parking is free.
0
0
This bridge takes you over a portion of the Spanish Oak Creek, one of the main features of this park. From the bridge, you'll enjoy water views surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot to slow down and appreciate nature and the diverse wildlife you may see along your run.
0
0
The Cedar Park Sculpture Garden features a paved walking path around the pond formed by Spanish Oak Creek. As the name suggests, there are sculptures, plants, and benches lining the trail along with informational plaques and plenty of green space. The trail passes under the bridge and forms a loop with a couple different parking areas offering access to the property.
0
0
The falls tumble over layers of limestone, creating smooth, polished rock faces and small grottoes perfect for exploring.
0
0
Baker Sanctuary is a 715-acre reserve that provides a mature hardwood-juniper woodland habitat for the Golden-cheeked Warbler. These endangered songbird species nest exclusively in 29 counties in Central Texas. The sanctuary does not allow dogs or cyclists, as it disturbs the nesting birds, so plan accordingly for your visit. This beautiful sanctuary is an excellent place to explore, where you can also see the historic Baker cabin and the Baker family cemetery. The trail system is marked and offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the area's natural beauty while learning about the warblers and their habitat.
0
0
There are a couple nature trails passing through Great Hills Neighborhood Park. The park backs up to some suburban neighborhoods that provide a few different entrances to the singletrack paths. The trails cross a few creeks and can be tight and rocky in places, so they offer a bit of wilderness feel without really having to leave the city.
0
0
The Cedar Park Sculpture Garden features a paved walking path around the pond formed by Spanish Oak Creek. As the name suggests, there are sculptures, plants, and benches lining the trail along with informational plaques and plenty of green space. The trail passes under the bridge and forms a loop with a couple different parking areas offering access to the property.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Lake Travis?
Road cycling around Lake Travis features the diverse terrain of the Texas Hill Country. You'll encounter rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and expansive lake views. Routes navigate through wooded areas and open landscapes, offering a mix of challenging climbs and flatter sections.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Lake Travis?
Yes, Lake Travis offers several routes suitable for beginners and families. Out of the 24 available routes, 6 are rated as easy. These routes typically have less elevation gain and provide a more relaxed cycling experience.
What are some challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders in Lake Travis?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Lake Travis has 4 difficult-rated routes. A notable moderate route with significant elevation gain is the Spicewood Parkway – Cedar Crest Drive loop from Mansfield Dam, covering 29.2 miles with over 400 meters of ascent. Another option is the Bull Creek District Park – Bull Creek loop from Mansfield Dam, which is 38.6 miles long with over 600 meters of climbing.
Are there any loop routes for road cycling around Lake Travis?
Yes, many road cycling routes around Lake Travis are designed as loops. For example, the popular Violet Crown Pace Bend x4 loop is a 24.9-mile route with lake views. Another option is the Pace Bend Park loop from Lakeway, which is 32.8 miles long.
What is the typical length and duration of road cycling routes in the Lake Travis area?
Route lengths and durations vary significantly. You can find shorter rides like the 24.9-mile Violet Crown Pace Bend x4 loop, which takes about 2 hours 9 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Roadbike loop from Exercise Building, can be up to 42.8 miles and take over 3.5 hours to complete.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Lake Travis?
The road cycling experience in Lake Travis is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, scenic lake views, and the mix of challenging climbs and enjoyable descents through the Hill Country landscapes.
When is the best season for road biking around Lake Travis?
The best seasons for road biking around Lake Travis are typically spring and fall, when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for extended rides. Summers can be very hot, and winters are generally mild but can have occasional cold fronts.
Are there scenic viewpoints or notable landmarks along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. You'll often pass by limestone bluffs and wooded areas. Specific routes like the Violet Crown Pace Bend x4 loop are known for their lake vistas, while others traverse through the picturesque landscapes near Mansfield Dam.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Lake Travis region?
There are 24 road cycling routes available around Lake Travis, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. Over 200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore this area.
Is public transport available to access road cycling routes around Lake Travis?
Public transport options directly to the starting points of many road cycling routes around Lake Travis are limited. Most cyclists typically drive to access trailheads or parking areas near the lake. It is advisable to plan your transport accordingly.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the road cycling trails in Lake Travis?
While specific cafes are not listed directly on the routes, the Lake Travis area, including towns like Lakeway and Spicewood, offers various amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and convenience stores where cyclists can refuel and rest. It's recommended to check local listings for options near your chosen route's starting or ending points.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
