The best cycling routes around Northwoods

There are nearly 20 touring cycling routes recorded in the Northwoods on komoot, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars.

The Northwoods features rolling terrain shaped by glacial activity, offering a mix of relatively flat sections and gentle climbs. You'll cycle through dense forests of pine, maple, and spruce, often alongside thousands of glacial lakes and waterways. While not mountainous, the varied topography provides engaging rides.

Yes, the Northwoods offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Wheels Path – Forest Park loop from Washington University in St. Louis is an easy 5.7-mile trail that takes about 34 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant ride through urban parkland. Another easy option is the Citygarden Sculpture Park – Tower Grove Park loop from Cortex.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the Barnes-Jewish Hospital – Tower Grove Park loop from Central West End cover about 31.1 miles, combining cityscapes with green spaces. Another popular moderate option is the Boathouse Lake Pavilion loop from Delmar Loop, which is 31.9 miles long and leads through urban and park environments.

The Northwoods is characterized by its extensive forests, featuring a mix of conifers and deciduous trees like birch and maple. You'll also find thousands of gleaming glacial lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers. Many routes wind along these pristine waters, offering stunning views and a serene natural immersion.

Yes, several routes pass by notable attractions. You can cycle through Forest Park, or see landmarks like the McKinley Bridge. Many routes also feature beautiful lakes such as Post-Dispatch Lake and Jefferson Lake.

The Northwoods is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's serene natural environment, the picturesque backdrop of dense forests, and the opportunity to cycle alongside numerous glacial lakes and waterways.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Northwoods are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Wheels Path – Forest Park loop from Washington University in St. Louis and the Boathouse Lake Pavilion loop from Delmar Loop, providing convenient options for your ride.

The Northwoods is a haven for diverse wildlife. While cycling, you might spot animals like moose, gray wolves, black bears, and beavers. The region is also home to over 400 species of birds, including ospreys, loons, and bald eagles, adding to the immersive natural experience.

While the komoot guide focuses on individual routes, the broader Northwoods region is known for extensive trail networks and bikepacking routes. These include long-distance options that utilize gravel roads, rail trails, and scenic byways, connecting charming towns and offering a mix of terrain for multi-day adventures.

The Northwoods offers year-round appeal, but it is particularly stunning in summer and fall. Summer provides pleasant weather for cycling along lakes and through forests, while autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant fall colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for your rides.

The Northwoods has invested heavily in creating and maintaining diverse cycling paths. Many paved trails, often repurposed snowmobile trails, offer smooth riding. Additionally, numerous lightly traveled back roads are ideal for peaceful rides through tall trees and alongside small lakes, providing well-kept surfaces for touring.