The best cycling routes around Atlanta

Atlanta offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 140 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy urban loops to more challenging long-distance rides.

Atlanta's touring cycling routes feature a diverse terrain, ranging from the rolling hills of the Georgia Piedmont to flatter sections, often utilizing converted rail lines. You'll find a good mix of routes: about 56 are considered easy, 83 are moderate, and 10 are more difficult, ensuring options for all experience levels.

Yes, Atlanta has numerous family-friendly touring cycling options, particularly on its extensive network of multi-use trails. Many of the 56 easy routes are suitable for families, offering paved and relatively flat sections. The Bike loop from Midtown is a shorter, easy option that can be enjoyed by families.

Absolutely. For those seeking longer rides, Atlanta offers several routes that span significant distances. A prominent example is the Stone Mountain Trail, which covers 38.3 miles (61.7 km) and connects downtown Atlanta to Stone Mountain Park, providing scenic views. Another challenging option is the Piedmont Park – Stone Mountain Grist Mill loop from Lindbergh Center, which is a difficult 86.9 km route.

Yes, Atlanta features several excellent circular touring cycling routes. The Northwest Atlanta loop via the Proctor Creek Greenway and Westside Connector is a popular moderate 22.0-mile (35.5 km) loop that navigates through urban greenways. For a shorter ride, the Bike loop from Midtown is a 6.4-mile (10.4 km) circular trail.

Atlanta's routes often pass through or near significant landmarks and natural areas. You can cycle along the vibrant Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, known for its public art and access to neighborhoods. Other notable spots include Piedmont Park, offering green spaces and lake views, and Centennial Olympic Park. Many routes also connect to the natural beauty of Stone Mountain Park.

Atlanta, often called 'the city in a forest,' provides a unique blend of urban and natural experiences for touring cyclists. Routes frequently transition from bustling cityscapes and historic neighborhoods to lush green spaces, extensive parks, and wooded trails. The Freedom Park Pathway – Stone Mountain Trail loop from North Avenue is a great example, offering both urban and natural views.

The touring cycling routes around Atlanta are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's lush tree canopies, the variety of terrain from rolling hills to converted rail lines, and the extensive network of multi-use trails that connect diverse neighborhoods and natural areas.

Yes, the Atlanta BeltLine is a major highlight for cyclists, transforming old rail lines into a 22-mile loop of multi-use trails. While specific routes may vary, many touring cycling paths in Atlanta incorporate sections of the BeltLine, particularly the Eastside Trail, which is popular for its vibrant atmosphere and access to various attractions.

Stone Mountain Park is a significant destination for cyclists in the Atlanta area. The Stone Mountain Trail is a dedicated route that connects downtown Atlanta directly to the park, offering a 38.3-mile journey with scenic views. The park itself provides varied terrain and opportunities for further exploration.

Atlanta is rich in green spaces accessible by touring bike. Piedmont Park is considered the heart of Atlanta's outdoor scene, offering ample green space and paths. The Proctor Creek Greenway and Westside Connector are also popular, forming part of the Northwest Atlanta loop. Freedom Park also provides trails through the city.