The best road cycling routes around St. John

There are over 30 road cycling routes around St. John, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find options ranging from easy, flat rides to more moderate distances.

Road cycling around St. John is characterized by its relatively flat terrain, featuring numerous lakes, nature preserves, and converted rail-trails. You can expect scenic paths through conservation areas and along river corridors, with minimal elevation gain on most routes.

Yes, St. John offers many easy road cycling routes. For example, the Lake County Fairgrounds loop is an easy 16-mile (25.8 km) trail with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed ride. There are 14 easy routes in total.

While the region is generally flat, there are 16 moderate road cycling routes available for those seeking a longer ride. The Little Calumet River – Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail loop from Hyles-Anderson College, for instance, is a 21.5-mile (34.6 km) route that offers a good workout along river corridors and a converted rail-trail.

Cyclists in St. John can enjoy picturesque views of lakes, nature preserves, and river corridors. Many routes follow converted rail-trails, offering peaceful journeys through natural settings. You'll also find routes that pass through areas like the Chase Street Conservation Area, providing a refreshing natural backdrop.

Yes, several routes incorporate interesting features. You can cycle along the Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail and the Oak Savannah Trail, which are popular highlights themselves. The Chase Street Conservation Area – Oak Savannah Trail loop takes you through a significant natural area.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the flat terrain, which makes it accessible, and the scenic paths through nature preserves and along converted rail-trails like the Erie-Lackawanna.

For those looking for longer rides, routes like the Chase Street Conservation Area – Oak Savannah Trail loop from Hyles-Anderson College offer a substantial distance of 29.1 miles (46.9 km), allowing for extended exploration of the region's natural beauty.

Yes, many of the routes around St. John are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lake County Fairgrounds loop and the Ivan Gatlin Nature Preserve loop from Lake County, providing convenient circular journeys.

Given the region's characteristics, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling. The flat terrain and natural preserves are enjoyable when the weather is mild, allowing for comfortable rides through the scenic landscapes.

Absolutely. Many routes in St. John are designed to showcase the region's water features. The Little Calumet River – Erie-Lackawanna Rail-Trail loop, for instance, leads you through river corridors, offering tranquil views and a refreshing cycling experience.