The best cycling routes around Hills

The Iowa River Corridor Trail offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding along the Iowa River and connecting Iowa City to North Liberty. You'll pedal through a mix of urban parks, past the University of Iowa campus, and into more open, natural settings, with scenic viewpoints along the river. The paved surface makes for a smooth ride, and the diverse scenery keeps things interesting from start to finish.

This route is rated moderate, covering 34.1 miles (54.8 km) with 1268 feet (387 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 19 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available at spots like Terry Trueblood Recreation Area in Iowa City. The best time to cycle Iowa River Corridor Trail is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, though it's a pleasant ride throughout much of the year.

As one of the key cycling trails Iowa City North Liberty, this route is a significant off-road link that also connects to other local trails, expanding your riding options. It's known for being family-friendly and well-maintained, providing a safe, car-free experience for much of its length. This trail is a fantastic way to explore the local natural beauty and urban attractions of the Iowa City area.

The Iowa River and Clear Creek Trails Loop offers a pleasant touring cycling experience, weaving together river views, university scenery, and peaceful wooded corridors. As you ride, you'll transition from urban Iowa City to more rural landscapes, passing through areas with tall oaks and maples, and even catching sight of the world's largest wooden nickel. This easy 16.8-mile (27.1 km) loop, with just 487 feet (148 metres) of elevation gain, is mostly paved and can be completed in about 1 hour and 36 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxed outing.

Parking is readily available, including at the Iowa River Power Company area, providing convenient access to the loop. The trail is generally accessible and suitable for most skill levels, though some sections of the Clear Creek Trail might feature a mix of gravel and paved surfaces. It's a great option for a morning or afternoon ride, especially if you're looking for family friendly bike trails in the Iowa City area.

This loop is a key part of the broader Iowa City trail network, connecting to other routes like the North Ridge Trail for those looking to extend their ride. The Clear Creek portion borders an 87-acre riparian forest, offering opportunities to enjoy nature and potentially spot wildlife. It's a unique blend of natural beauty and urban exploration, perfect for a casual touring cycling adventure.

The Iowa City to Lake Macbride State Park loop via Iowa River Corridor Trail offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, transitioning from the paved paths of Iowa City's riverfront to the rolling hills and diverse terrain surrounding Lake Macbride. You'll pedal past the University of Iowa campus, enjoy scenic river vistas, and then immerse yourself in the natural beauty of oak/hickory forests and restored prairies around Sugar Bottom Park and Lake Macbride. The route promises expansive lake views and shaded shorelines, making for a truly engaging ride.

This difficult 49.4-mile (79.5 km) loop, with its 1744 feet (532 metres) of elevation gain, is a substantial undertaking, typically requiring about 5 hours and 7 minutes of riding. Be prepared for varied surfaces, including crushed stone and potentially unpaved sections, especially as you approach Lake Macbride State Park. The presence of "pretty big hills" between North Liberty and Iowa City, and a "huge hill" on the Solon-Lake Macbride trail, means this route is best for advanced touring cycling enthusiasts looking for a workout.

This loop is a fantastic way to explore the diverse landscapes of Johnson County, Iowa, connecting urban centers with significant natural landmarks. The Iowa River Corridor Trail is a well-utilized local gem, and its connection to Lake Macbride State Park, named after the "father" of Iowa conservation, Thomas Macbride, highlights the region's commitment to preserving its natural beauty. It's a journey through both recreational and historically significant areas.

The Iowa River Trail segment from Terry Trueblood to Waterworks Prairie Park offers a delightful touring cycling experience, guiding you from the tranquil waters of Sand Lake along the shady Iowa River shoreline. You'll pedal past several city parks and the University of Iowa Campus before reaching Waterworks Prairie Park, a natural oasis featuring ponds, prairies, and abundant wildflowers. The primarily paved surfaces make for a smooth ride, perfect for enjoying the diverse scenery.

This easy 5.8-mile (9.3 km) route, with a minimal 60 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic option for a quick outing, taking only about 31 minutes. You can easily access the trailhead at Terry Trueblood Recreation Area, which offers amenities and connects you to a broader 16-mile paved trail network. It's an ideal choice for cyclists seeking a relaxed ride without significant climbs.

Beyond its scenic appeal, this trail serves as a vital off-road link within the Iowa City area, connecting various parks and the University campus. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially at Waterworks Prairie Park, where you might spot various bird species, deer, and even bald eagles during winter. The well-maintained, smooth concrete surfaces ensure a pleasant journey for touring cyclists of all levels.

Imagine cycling through a living tapestry of Iowa's natural beauty, where fertile river bottomlands give way to dense forests and then open up to rolling farmlands. You'll glide through peaceful "tree tunnels" and past wetlands, keeping an eye out for deer and the vibrant American Goldfinch. The route offers a unique blend of natural immersion and glimpses into rural Iowa life as you pass through charming small towns like Hiawatha.

This challenging 63.1-mile (101.5 km) touring cycling route, with 1800 feet (548 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 6 hours and 1 minute to complete. The trail is now mostly paved, making it suitable for road bikes, and you'll find amenities like restrooms and water at various access points. Spring and fall are ideal for this long ride, offering comfortable temperatures.

The Cedar Valley Nature Trail is a pioneer among Iowa's linear parks and a crucial link in both the American Discovery Trail and the Great American Rail-Trail. Its flat, former railroad grade makes the physical effort surprisingly low for its 'difficult' rating, which primarily reflects its impressive length. It's a fantastic way to experience Iowa's diverse ecosystems and connect two major cities.