The best cycling routes around Medina
4.5
(96)
682
riders
72
rides
Touring cycling around Medina offers varied terrain, encompassing park trails, regional trail systems, and urban routes. The region features a network of paths designed for different ability levels. These routes provide opportunities to explore local parklands and connect through established trail systems.
Best touring cycling routes around Medina
- The most popular touring cycling route is Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Arcola Trestle Bridge loop from Long Lake, a 42.5 miles (68.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 55 minutes…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.7
(11)
65
riders
43.3km
02:29
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
27
riders
68.3km
03:55
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
23
riders
29.6km
01:49
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(6)
22
riders
41.4km
02:35
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Lake Waconia is beautiful and huge, lots of good views as you go around.
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A nice regional trail that tucks in and out of the woods
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The Wayzata Railroad Depot has a rich and contentious history. The first train arrived in Wayzata in 1867, when the town was considered the "end of the road." The original depot was located about a block east of the current depot. As the railroad expanded westward, more tracks were laid between Lake Minnetonka and Main Street in Wayzata. This decision led to protests from citizens due to issues such as noise, cinders, sparks, and the feeling of being cut off from the lake. Residents demanded that the railroad owner, James J. Hill, relocate the tracks further north, away from the lakeshore. Hill refused, resulting in the town filing a lawsuit. In 1881, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled that Hill was trespassing on village property. Known for his stubborn and powerful nature, Hill was infuriated. Instead of moving the tracks north, he tore down the existing Wayzata depot and built a new, smaller depot a mile east of town. This action effectively made Wayzata "off the map" for rail service, forcing residents to walk a mile through marshy terrain to catch a train. Hill famously declared that Wayzata residents could "walk a mile for the next twenty years." Eventually, the city of Wayzata reconciled with Hill. As part of this agreement, Hill commissioned the construction of the current magnificent Wayzata Depot in 1906. This new depot was built in a more convenient location, closer to the downtown business district and on the shores of Lake Minnetonka, officially putting Wayzata "back on the map." The tracks were never moved, and trains still operate between the lakeshore and the town of Wayzata.
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A short bridge that carries the Luce Line State Trail over Wayzata Boulevard.
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A short pedestrian bridge that saves you from the chaos of trying to dart across U.S. Route 12.
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Grandy's Farm is located on the north side of the Dakota Rail Trail. It features goats, ponies, and a food stand where you can purchase food yourself.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to encounter while touring cycling in Medina?
Medina offers a diverse range of landscapes for touring cyclists. You can explore dramatic volcanic terrains, including ancient lava flows and cones like the Harat Kbar field, offering challenging hills and unique scenery. There are also quiet desert roads perfect for long-distance bikepacking, and stunning wadis such as Wadi al-Jinn with its rocky formations, and Wadi Disah in Al-Ula, known for its towering red rock formations and occasional waterfalls.
Are there dedicated cycling paths in Medina?
Yes, Medina is actively developing its cycling infrastructure. By 2023, 70 kilometers of dedicated bicycle lanes were completed along main roads and residential areas, with plans to expand this network to 220 kilometers by the end of 2025. These lanes are designed to be safe and accessible for all cyclists.
Are there options for renting bicycles in Medina?
Yes, for convenient exploration, the Careem BIKE service provides electric bicycle and scooter rentals from over 165 stations across Medina, making it easy for visitors to access bikes and explore the city's attractions.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Medina area?
There are over 60 touring cycling routes documented in the Medina area on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or leisurely rides?
Yes, Medina offers many routes suitable for beginners. Approximately 37 of the touring cycling routes are rated as easy. An example is the Hardin Park – Bederwood Park loop from Hennepin County, which is 19.3 miles (31.0 km) long and leads through parklands.
What options are available for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge?
For experienced cyclists, there are 29 moderate and 2 difficult touring cycling routes in Medina. A challenging moderate option is the Dakota Rail Regional Trail – Arcola Trestle Bridge loop from Long Lake, which is 42.5 miles (68.3 km) and features significant elevation gain.
What historical and cultural attractions can I visit by bike in Medina?
You can incorporate historical sites like the Prophet's Mosque (Al Masjid an Nabawi) and Quba Mosque into your cycling tours, with e-bike tours often providing guided historical journeys. The Al-Ula region, though further afield, also offers the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra with its Nabatean tombs, and iconic natural formations like Elephant Rock, which can be explored as part of a longer cycling adventure.
Are there any natural features or landmarks to see along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the routes around Medina offer several natural highlights. You might encounter the Arcola Trestle Bridge, explore areas near Libbs Lake, or visit the Ferndale Marsh. Many routes also pass by the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, which is a highlight in itself.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Medina?
The touring cycling routes in Medina are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.37 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes park trails, regional trail systems, and urban routes, offering options for different ability levels and scenic experiences.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Medina?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Medina are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. An example is the Arcola Trestle – Dakota Rail Regional Trail loop from Wayzata, a moderate 26.9 miles (43.2 km) trail.
Can I find routes that pass through parks or green spaces?
Absolutely. Medina offers routes that lead through pleasant parklands and green spaces. For instance, the Hardin Park – Bederwood Park loop from Hennepin County is a popular easy route that takes you through such areas.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Medina?
While specific seasonal considerations are not detailed, the diverse landscapes of Medina, from desert roads to wadis, suggest that cooler months might be more comfortable for extensive touring, especially for routes that involve significant sun exposure. However, dedicated cycling lanes within the city can be enjoyed year-round.
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