The best road cycling routes around New Brighton
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Road cycling around New Brighton, Minnesota, offers a network of routes that combine natural scenery with historical points of interest. The area features paved paths through woodlands, alongside prairie grass, and around the shores of Long Lake and Pike Lake. Road cycling routes often connect to regional trails, providing access to varied landscapes including the Mississippi River and local parklands. The terrain is generally flat with gentle hills, suitable for a range of cycling abilities.
Best road cycling routes around New Brighton
- The most popular road cycling route is North Lakes loop, a 36.2 miles (58.3 km) moderate trail that takes 2 hours 22 minutes to complete. This route provides diverse scenery around lakes and through natural areas.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Coon Rapids Dam – Coon Rapids Dam loop from Irondale High School, a moderate 25.7 miles (41.4 km) path. This route features views of the Mississippi River and surrounding parkland.
- Local road cyclists also love the Islands of Peace – Rice Creek West Regional Trail loop from New Brighton, a 19.6 miles (31.6 km) trail leading through parklands and natural areas, often completed in about 1 hour 22 minutes.
- Road cycling around New Brighton is defined by river views, parklands, and prairie landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more extensive routes.
- The routes in New Brighton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 48 reviews. More than 1800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore New Brighton's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
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riders
58.3km
02:22
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
21.3km
00:53
90m
90m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5
riders
33.4km
01:26
170m
170m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
10
riders
58.7km
02:29
250m
250m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
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17
riders
68.0km
03:15
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Island Lake is home to Island Lake County Park and Island Lake playgrounds. With operating hours from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., the park offers plenty of car parking and a few spots for boat trailers. Visitors can enjoy a spacious playground, a play field with a backstop for recreational activities, a fishing pier for angling enthusiasts, a convenient boat launch, and shoreline areas perfect for fishing along the lake's edge.
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The St. Anthony Parkway Bridge crosses over the busy BNSF Northtown Rail Yard. Originally built in 1925 as a five-span Warren truss bridge, it was replaced in 2016 with a modern steel truss structure that honors its historic predecessor. Today, the bridge includes an interpretive plaza with preserved truss elements and great views of the rail yard, providing an insight into the area's industrial history.
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This 8-acre park consists of three islands located in the Mississippi River. While Chase Island is accessible on foot, the other two can be reached by water or enjoyed from a distance. The park earned its name from its founder's quote, "Where Peace Is A Way of Life Every Hour of Every Day for All Those Willing to Share the Experience."
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Island Lake is home to Island Lake County Park and Island Lake playgrounds. With operating hours from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., the park offers plenty of car parking and a few spots for boat trailers. Visitors can enjoy a spacious playground, a play field with a backstop for recreational activities, a fishing pier for angling enthusiasts, a convenient boat launch, and shoreline areas perfect for fishing along the lake's edge. Stop here on your ride for a place to sit down, photos, or a bathroom break.
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The North Cedar Lake Regional Trail is a 4.4-mile paved trail that starts in Hopkins and passes through St. Louis Park to connect to other paved trails in Minneapolis.
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The North Cedar Lake Regional Trail is a 4.4-mile paved trail that starts in Hopkins and passes through St. Louis Park to connect to other paved trails in Minneapolis.
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The Rice Creek West Regional Trail is a 4-mile-long trail that connects Creekview Park with Locke County Park. The trail is full paved and takes you through beautiful woodland scenery.
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Victoria Lake is a scenic freshwater lake with an adjacent park, Texa-Tonka Park, and playground. There are also benches by the lily pad-filled water, making it a great place to stop for a break as you explore the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around New Brighton?
There are over 130 road cycling routes around New Brighton, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. More than 70 of these are considered easy, making the area accessible for many cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in New Brighton?
Road cycling routes in New Brighton, Minnesota, generally feature paved paths through woodlands, alongside prairie grass, and around lakes like Long Lake and Pike Lake. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle hills, making it suitable for various cycling abilities.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in New Brighton?
Yes, New Brighton offers many easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. The Mississippi River Trail – Franklin Avenue Bridge loop from Saint Anthony is an excellent example, providing a scenic and relatively flat ride along the river.
What are some popular longer-distance road cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking longer rides, the North Lakes loop is a popular choice, covering over 36 miles (58 km) with diverse scenery around several lakes. Another great option is the Coon Rapids Dam – Coon Rapids Dam loop from Irondale High School, which is about 25 miles (41 km) and offers views of the Mississippi River.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting landmarks. You can enjoy views of the Mississippi River, especially on routes like the Coon Rapids Dam loop. Other notable attractions include the historic Coon Rapids Dam, the Mississippi River Trail itself, and the iconic Stone Arch Bridge.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in New Brighton?
Yes, many routes in New Brighton are designed as loops, offering convenient circular rides. Examples include the North Lakes loop and the Islands of Peace – Rice Creek West Regional Trail loop from New Brighton, which provides a moderate 19.6-mile (31.6 km) ride through natural areas.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in New Brighton?
The road cycling routes in New Brighton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 75 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, which includes lakes, river views, and prairie landscapes, as well as the well-maintained paved paths suitable for various skill levels.
Are there any specific natural features or parks to explore by bike?
Absolutely. Cyclists can explore areas like Silverwood Park, which offers beautiful forest scenery, and pass by the south shores of Long Lake and Pike Lake. The Rice Creek West Regional Trail also provides a pleasant ride through woodland. For river views and wildlife, Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is a highlight.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in New Brighton?
The best time for road cycling in New Brighton is typically from spring through fall, when the weather is mild and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and autumn provide cooler rides and beautiful foliage. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder conditions and potential snow or ice.
Are there options for parking or public transport access to the cycling routes?
Many routes in New Brighton are accessible, with various starting points that may offer parking. For public transport, the Twin Cities Gateway area, which includes New Brighton, has connections to regional trails, making it possible to access routes via public transport networks. It's advisable to check local transit schedules and parking availability for specific trailheads.
Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes directly on every route may vary, New Brighton and its surrounding towns offer various amenities. Many routes connect to urban areas or pass through parks where you can find facilities or nearby establishments for refreshments. Planning your route in advance can help identify suitable stop-off points.
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