The best cycling routes around St. Paul

St. Paul offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 90 routes available for exploration. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 48 easy, 43 moderate, and 8 difficult options.

The terrain in St. Paul is quite diverse, featuring routes along the Mississippi River corridor, through urban parks, and around interconnected lake systems. Many trails utilize former railroad grades, offering generally level paths. You'll encounter river bluffs, forested floodplains, and scenic urban green spaces, providing a mix of paved and multi-use trails.

Yes, St. Paul is very accommodating for beginner and easy touring cyclists. Nearly half of the routes, specifically 48 out of 99, are rated as easy. These often include flat, paved trails like those found around Como Lake or Lake Phalen, and sections of the Mississippi River loop via Franklin Avenue Bridge.

St. Paul's routes offer access to numerous natural features and landmarks. You can cycle along the Mississippi River Gorge, visit Lake Phalen, Como Lake, and explore parks like Hidden Falls and Crosby Farm. Historic sites such as Indian Mounds Park, offering skyline views, are also accessible.

Absolutely. Many of St. Paul's trails are ideal for families, particularly those that are flat and off-street. The Saint Paul Grand Round, with its extensive off-street sections, and trails around Como Lake and Lake Phalen, are excellent choices for a family outing. The Sam Morgan Regional Trail along the Mississippi is also known for being flat and family-friendly.

Yes, St. Paul features several excellent circular routes. A popular option is the Mississippi River Trail Loop, which provides panoramic views. Another notable circular route is the Saint Paul Grand Round, a 27-mile scenic parkway encircling the city and connecting major outdoor landmarks.

The best time for touring cycling in St. Paul is generally from spring through fall (April to October), when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. The city's extensive park system and river views are particularly enjoyable during these seasons. While some trails are maintained, winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and ice.

The touring cycling routes in St. Paul are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse scenery, which combines urban charm with natural beauty, the well-maintained trails, and the accessibility to major landmarks and parks. The extensive network of bike-friendly paths is a consistent highlight.

Many of St. Paul's regional parks and trails are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out, but generally, you'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy a ride with your canine companion, especially on the multi-use paths within the city's extensive park system.

Parking is generally available at various access points for St. Paul's touring cycling routes, particularly at major parks and trailheads. For instance, parks like Como Lake, Lake Phalen, Crosby Farm, and Hidden Falls offer parking facilities. For routes like the Gateway State Trail, designated parking lots are available along its length.

Yes, St. Paul has a robust public transport system, and many touring cycling routes are easily accessible via bus or light rail. The city's commitment to cycling infrastructure often includes connections to public transit hubs, making it convenient to reach trailheads without a car. For specific routes, checking local transit maps for nearby stops is recommended.

For those seeking longer rides, St. Paul offers several options. The Gateway and Brown's Creek Trail Loop extends for nearly 40 miles, transitioning from urban to rural landscapes. The Saint Paul Grand Round is another substantial route, encircling the city for 27 miles, connecting numerous parks and landmarks.