The best cycling routes around Ham Lake

There are over 50 touring cycling routes available around Ham Lake, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels.

For an easy and family-friendly ride, consider the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Lake Dr. This 13-mile route offers pleasant lake views and winds through wooded sections. Another great option is the Sherman Lake loop from Centerville, an easy 6.4-mile path.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Ham Lake are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park – Sunken Lakeside Singletrack loop from Lake Dr, the Bunker Hills Regional Park – Coon Creek Trail loop from Northdale Boulevard Northwest & Lily Street Northwest, and the Bunker Hills Blvd Tunnel – Bunker Hills Regional Park loop from Coon Rapids. These circular routes allow you to start and end at the same point, making logistics easier.

Touring cycling around Ham Lake offers diverse scenery, including tranquil wooded sections, open prairies, and views of lakes like Ham Lake and Bunker Lake. You can also find riverside paths along the Mississippi River, such as those accessible from the Coon Rapids Dam loop from University Avenue & 99th Avenue Northeast. The region is a transition zone between tallgrass prairie and eastern deciduous forests, contributing to its ecological beauty.

While many trails are primarily for warmer seasons, Ham Lake does cater to winter fat biking, with events like the annual Ham Lake Snow Bowl. Some trails may be suitable for fat biking, offering a unique way to experience the winter landscape.

Along your touring cycling routes, you can encounter several interesting spots. The Bunker Hills Regional Park – Coon Creek Trail loop will take you through Bunker Hills Regional Park itself, known for its prairie and pine stands. The Coon Rapids Dam loop offers views of the Coon Rapids Dam and connects to the Mississippi River Regional Trail. You might also pass by the Rum River Regional Trail or the Coon Creek Trail.

Many regional parks and trailheads in the Ham Lake area offer designated parking facilities. For instance, Bunker Hills Regional Park and Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park provide ample parking for visitors accessing their extensive trail networks. It's always a good idea to check specific park websites or komoot tour details for precise parking locations.

The touring cycling routes in Ham Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained, bike-friendly roads with wide paved shoulders, the diverse scenery including lake views and wooded areas, and the accessible terrain suitable for various fitness levels.

Many parks and trails in the Ham Lake area are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's advisable to check the specific regulations of individual parks like Ham Lake Park or Bunker Hills Regional Park before heading out with your canine companion. Always ensure you clean up after your pet.

The best time for touring cycling in Ham Lake is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the trails are clear. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, from blooming spring flowers to colorful autumn foliage. Always check local weather conditions before your ride.

While specific cafes directly on every trail might be limited, the Ham Lake area and its surrounding communities offer various amenities. You'll find options for refreshments and dining in nearby towns. For a unique stop, the Willow Tree Winery in Ham Lake offers a chance to sample local wines. Many regional parks also provide picnic facilities.