The best cycling routes around Kalamazoo
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Touring cycling around Kalamazoo features a landscape characterized by a mix of urban pathways, suburban greenways, and natural areas. The region includes numerous lakes, rivers, and wooded sections, providing varied scenery for cyclists. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making many routes accessible for different skill levels. The area's infrastructure supports cycling with dedicated paths and quiet roads.
Best touring cycling routes around Kalamazoo
- The most popular touring cycling route is Kalamazoo and Portage loop, a 35.2 miles (56.7 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 24 minutes to complete, connecting two distinct urban and suburban areas.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Kalamazoo Nature Center – Glenn Allen Island Preserve loop from Cooper Charter Township, an easy 16.2 miles (26.1 km) path. This route offers a blend of natural scenery through a nature center and preserve.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Atwater Loop Trail, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) trail leading through local parkland, often completed in about 40 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Kalamazoo is defined by accessible bike paths, scenic stops along waterways, and routes through local nature preserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, from beginner touring bike routes Kalamazoo to longer touring bike routes Kalamazoo area.
- The routes in Kalamazoo are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 120 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Kalamazoo's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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10
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7.90km
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40m
40m
The Atwater Loop Trail, nestled within the Al Sabo Land Preserve, offers a vibrant escape into Michigan's natural beauty. This singletrack path winds through dense conifer and deciduous forests, where you'll find sun-dappled dirt paths, wildflowers, and varied habitats including wetlands and meadows. Expect an engaging ride with natural obstacles like sand and roots, tight corners, and short climbs, providing a true off-road experience.
Planning your visit to the Atwater Loop Trail means preparing for a mountain biking adventure, as this route is not suitable for traditional touring cycling. The 4.9-mile (7.9 km) loop, with an easy difficulty and 139 feet (42 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 39 minutes to complete. Be aware of potentially high foot traffic, especially on blind corners, due to its popularity as one of the best trails in the Kalamazoo area.
This trail is a local favorite, particularly for mountain bikers, offering an immersive experience through diverse forest ecosystems. The Al Sabo Land Preserve, where the trail is located, was established to protect groundwater, adding to its significance. Its singletrack design, with various twists and natural challenges, makes it a notable destination for those seeking a quick and engaging ride in nature.
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56.7km
03:24
220m
220m
Cycle the 35.2-mile Kalamazoo and Portage loop, a moderate touring route through parks, wetlands, and along the Kalamazoo River.
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12
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14.1km
00:52
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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15.1km
01:17
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Al Sabo Preserve loop from Arthur and Mildred Woollam Nature Preserve is an intriguing idea for a touring cycling route, but it's important to set expectations. While the route is an easy 6.0 miles (9.6 km) with only 69 feet (21 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 33 minutes, much of the terrain in Al Sabo Preserve is better suited for mountain bikes, featuring singletrack with roots and sand. You'll find diverse habitats, from coniferous forests to open meadows, and the newer Arthur and Mildred Woollam Nature Preserve offers scenic views of Bass Lake and Scouters Pond, with some gravel paths that are more touring-bike friendly. This route is best for adventurous touring cyclists prepared for varied and potentially challenging surfaces.
Accessing this route means navigating two distinct preserves. The Arthur and Mildred Woollam Nature Preserve has designated gravel trails and park roads open to bikes, including the 1.75-mile Heron Point Path. However, Al Sabo Preserve's trails are largely off-road and technical, with bicycles restricted to only a fraction of its total mileage. Parking is available at both preserves, but be aware that a seamless, dedicated touring cycling connection between them is not explicitly described, meaning you might need to use external roads.
These preserves offer a unique blend of natural beauty in Kalamazoo County. Al Sabo Preserve plays a vital role in protecting the groundwater supply for the Atwater wellfield, providing a rustic nature experience with opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Arthur and Mildred Woollam Nature Preserve, opened in 2024, is Kalamazoo County's newest park, featuring a nature center and facilities, making it a community hub. The contrast between Al Sabo's rugged trails and Woollam's newer, more accessible gravel paths makes for an interesting, if challenging, touring cycling exploration.
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Popular around Kalamazoo
Tips from the Community
The Atwater Trail is a fun loop through Al Sabo, and is great for a quick after work lap. There's about 140 feet of elevation gain and the trail can get covered in leaves, so take care around corners when things are wet.
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This bridge provides pedestrians and cyclists safe passage over Milham Road. It's part of the Portage Bicentennial Trail and links to parks on both sides.
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This reserve is the largest relict bog in Michigan. It is home to several rare plant species and is the "home" of many animals and insects.
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Al Sabo has diverse habitats with lots of wildlife. You can explore the woods, wetlands and meadows on the network of trails, some of which are marked. You can only ride on the trails that are designated for bicycles. The preserve is open from dawn until dusk.
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Good parking to start to Celery Flats run
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Al Sabo has diverse habitats with lots of wildlife. You can explore the woods, wetlands and meadows on the network of trails, some of which are marked. You can only ride on the trails that are designated for bicycles. The preserve is open from dawn until dusk.
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The Al Sabo Land Preserve was established in the early 1970s to protect groundwater from the Atwater well. You can find conifer and deciduous forests as well. Numerous animals and birds can be spotted.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Kalamazoo?
Yes, Kalamazoo offers many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. Out of nearly 20 routes available, 14 are rated as easy. A great option is the Kalamazoo Nature Center – Glenn Allen Island Preserve loop from Cooper Charter Township, which is 16.2 miles long and provides a blend of natural scenery.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Kalamazoo?
The touring cycling routes in Kalamazoo are generally gentle, with most featuring mild elevation changes. The majority of routes (14 out of 19) are classified as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels. There are also 5 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, but no difficult routes.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced riders in the Kalamazoo area?
For riders looking for a longer journey, the Kalamazoo and Portage loop is a notable option. This route spans 35.2 miles (56.7 km) and connects distinct urban and suburban areas, offering a moderate challenge.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes around Kalamazoo?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Kalamazoo are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Atwater Loop Trail, which is 4.9 miles through parkland, and the Milham Road Bridge loop from Portage, an 8.7-mile easy ride.
What kind of scenery can I expect on touring cycling routes in Kalamazoo?
Kalamazoo's touring cycling routes offer diverse scenery, including urban pathways, suburban greenways, and natural areas. You'll encounter numerous lakes, rivers, and wooded sections, providing a varied backdrop for your ride. Routes often pass through local parkland and nature preserves.
What are some scenic stops or points of interest along Kalamazoo's bike paths?
Many routes offer scenic stops and points of interest. You can explore natural areas like the Kalamazoo Nature Center, the Al Sabo Preserve, or the Lillian Anderson Arboretum. The Kalamazoo River Valley Trail itself is a highlight, offering picturesque views along the river.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Kalamazoo?
The touring cycling experience in Kalamazoo is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 15 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessible bike paths, the scenic stops along waterways, and the routes that wind through local nature preserves, highlighting the region's blend of urban and natural beauty.
Are there any routes that go through nature centers or preserves?
Yes, several routes incorporate natural areas. The Kalamazoo Nature Center – Glenn Allen Island Preserve loop from Parchment is an 11.4-mile easy route that takes you through these beautiful natural settings, offering a peaceful cycling experience.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Kalamazoo?
While specific conditions vary, the gentle terrain and mix of urban and natural paths make Kalamazoo suitable for touring cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides lush green landscapes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Where can I find parking access for touring bike trails in Kalamazoo?
Many touring cycling routes in Kalamazoo offer convenient parking access. A well-known spot is the Kal-Haven Trailhead Red Caboose, which serves as a popular starting point for various trails in the area.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Kalamazoo?
There are nearly 20 touring cycling routes available around Kalamazoo, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels. This network provides ample options for exploring the region's urban pathways, suburban greenways, and natural areas.
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