The best road cycling routes around Ham Lake

There are over 20 road cycling routes available around Ham Lake, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes range from easy loops to more moderate distances, catering to different skill levels.

The terrain for road cycling in Ham Lake is generally flat to gently rolling. Routes often feature well-maintained paved trails and wide shoulders, passing through native prairie grasslands, pine stands, and alongside numerous lakes. You can expect a comfortable ride with scenic natural backdrops.

Yes, Ham Lake offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Wooden Turtle Sculpture – Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park loop from Circle Pines is an easy 16.1-mile (25.9 km) trail. The Sherman Lake Loop is also known for being an easy, mostly paved ride suitable for all skill levels.

Road cycling routes in Ham Lake are primarily easy to moderate. Out of the available routes, 12 are rated as easy and 9 as moderate. There are no difficult routes, making the area very accessible for a wide range of cyclists looking for enjoyable rides without extreme challenges.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Ham Lake are loops. A notable local option is the Ham Lake 10-mile bike loop. You can also explore routes like the Long Lake Park – Through the pines loop from Circle Pines, which is 17.5 miles (28.2 km) and leads through scenic pine stands.

Absolutely. For those seeking a longer ride, the White Bear Lake – East & West Vadnais Lakes loop from Circle Pines is a moderate 33.9-mile (54.6 km) path. This route offers extensive lakeside views and passes through varied parkland scenery, connecting to broader regional networks like the Twin Cities Gateway.

Road cycling routes in Ham Lake offer diverse natural features. You can expect to see native prairie grasslands, Bur Oak patches, pine stands, and numerous lakes. Specific highlights include Bunker Hills Regional Park with its varied terrain and shoreline views near Bunker Lake, and the Rum River Regional Trail, which follows the Rum River through parks and points of interest.

Yes, Ham Lake is well-suited for family-friendly road cycling. Many routes are mostly paved and have easy difficulty grades, such as the Sherman Lake Loop. The well-maintained trail networks and generally flat terrain make it safe and enjoyable for cyclists of all ages.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved trails, the scenic natural landscapes including pine stands and lakes, and the accessibility of routes for various skill levels.

Beyond the cycling, you can find several attractions. Bunker Hills Regional Park offers disc golf, while Ham Lake Park provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. For a different experience, the Willow Tree Winery offers handcrafted wines, and Majestic Oaks Golf Course provides a scenic golf outing.

Many regional parks and trailheads in and around Ham Lake offer designated parking areas for cyclists. For example, Bunker Hills Regional Park, a major cycling hub, provides ample parking facilities to access its extensive trail network.

The best time for road biking in Ham Lake is typically during the warmer months, from spring through fall, when the weather is pleasant and trails are clear. However, the Ham Lake 10-mile bike loop is also designed for winter fat biking, offering year-round options for dedicated cyclists.