The best cycling routes around Bloomington

Komoot offers over 35 touring cycling routes around Bloomington, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good selection of easy routes, with 25 marked as easy, and 10 routes considered moderate.

Bloomington's touring cycling routes traverse a diverse landscape. You can expect to encounter rolling hills, dense forests, and expansive lake views, particularly around areas like the Hoosier National Forest and Monroe Lake. There are also accessible paved trails converted from old rail lines, such as the B-Line Trail, Clear Creek Trail, and Bloomington Rail Trail, offering gentler rides.

The best times for cycling in Bloomington are typically June, September, and October, when the weather is pleasant and the natural scenery is at its peak. These months offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the region's diverse trails and roads.

Yes, many routes offer scenic views and access to natural landmarks. You can find routes that pass by Minnehaha Falls, the Confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, and several lakes including Lake Nokomis and Staring Lake. The Hoosier National Forest also provides numerous scenic vistas.

The touring cycling routes in Bloomington are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from challenging hills to scenic lake loops, and the well-maintained paved trails that offer enjoyable rides through natural settings.

Yes, Bloomington offers several easy, family-friendly routes. The converted rail trails like the B-Line Trail, Clear Creek Trail, and Bloomington Rail Trail provide paved, relatively flat surfaces suitable for cyclists of all ages. An example of an easy route is the Cedar Avenue Trail Bridge – Boat Ramp loop from Bloomington, which is just over 10 miles long.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Bloomington are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. For instance, the Minnehaha Falls – Lake Nokomis loop from Mall of America is a popular circular route covering over 40 miles, and the Cliffs – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from Bloomington Ferry is another great option.

For longer rides, the region offers routes that can be combined or extended. The Minnehaha Falls – Lake Nokomis loop from Mall of America is a moderate 40.6-mile route. Additionally, the roads surrounding the Hoosier National Forest and loops around Monroe Lake provide challenging and scenic options for extended touring.

Parking is generally available at various access points for Bloomington's trails. For urban trails like the B-Line Trail, there are often public parking lots nearby. For routes accessing natural areas like the Hoosier National Forest or Monroe Lake, designated parking areas are typically provided at trailheads or recreation areas.

For some trails within the Hoosier National Forest, permits may be required for riders aged 17 and older. It's advisable to check the specific regulations for the trails you plan to ride, especially within the forest, to ensure compliance. More information can often be found on the Visit Bloomington website.

Beginners can enjoy the many easy routes available, particularly those on paved, converted rail trails. The Cedar Avenue Trail Bridge – Boat Ramp loop from Bloomington and the Artesian Well – Hand-Pulled Bike Ferry loop from 16 Av S are both easy routes under 14 miles, offering gentle terrain and scenic views.

While specific regulations can vary by trail, many multi-use paths and natural areas in Bloomington allow dogs on leash. The B-Line Trail, for example, is a popular urban trail where leashed dogs are welcome. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and check local signage for specific rules on any given trail.