The best road cycling routes around South Hill
4.0
(19)
533
riders
70
rides
Road cycling around South Hill features varied terrain, including rolling hills and routes alongside natural areas. The region offers a mix of elevation changes, with some paths traversing higher ground and others following flatter sections. Road cyclists can expect to encounter a landscape characterized by a blend of developed areas and natural preserves. The network of routes provides options for different skill levels.
Best road cycling routes around South Hill
- The most popular road cycling route is East Ithaca Nature…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.7
(3)
28
riders
33.6km
01:31
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.0
(1)
34
riders
39.9km
02:00
480m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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22
riders
36.6km
02:06
620m
620m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
19.1km
01:00
60m
60m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
16
riders
24.2km
01:14
320m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around South Hill
Tips from the Community
The Commons is a couple streets only open to foot traffic with sculptures, restaurants, a playground, historic district, and more. It has everything you could want from a downtown. There don't seem to be any places to lock your bike but you can walk it through the commons.
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Cascadia Gorge is an absolute gem and the trail is spectacular from end to end. There is no official parking for the trailhead, but you can street park and walk in. The area is very well maintained and highly accessible with nonstop views. It's not the type of trail you would expect to find in a residential area.
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This paved bike path takes you from the edge of Cornell University just over a mile to Game Farm Road. The path parallels Cascadilla Creek and is in the trees almost the whole way. This is a fantastic way to get out of town and into the green countryside east of Ithaca.
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The arboretum and botanic gardens run alongside Fall Creek for well over a mile end-to-end on a network of roads and well-maintained paths. Highlights include the wildflower garden, herb garden, crop garden, sculpture garden, and landscaped ponds, not to mention the arboretum itself.
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Hartung–Boothroyd Observatory was begun in the 1930s and completed at last in 1974. It is primarily used to teach ungraduate courses at Cornell and sits at the summit of Mount Pleasant.
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This is a lovely little old general store and local gem. Brookton's has good coffee, food, and an impressive selection of local beer and other spirits.
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The farmer's market is located in a long roofed-in pavilion and holds events all year long. You can learn more about when the market is open here: https://ithacamarket.com.
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Mount Pleasant is a 1,751-foot mountain with Hartung–Boothroyd Observatory at its peak. Hartung–Boothroyd Observatory is run by Cornell University and is used for upper-level astronomy classes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around South Hill?
South Hill features over 70 road cycling routes, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. The majority of these, around 60 routes, are considered moderate in difficulty, with a smaller selection of easier and more challenging paths.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in South Hill?
Yes, South Hill has several easy road cycling routes. While most routes are moderate, there are approximately 14 routes specifically rated as easy, providing a good starting point for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed ride.
What are some of the longer road cycling routes in the South Hill area?
For longer rides, consider routes like the Hartung–Boothroyd Observatory – East Ithaca Recreation Way loop from Ithaca, which spans nearly 30.4 miles (49.0 km) with substantial ascents. Another option is the East Ithaca Nature Preserve – Brookton's Market loop from East Ithaca, covering 24.8 miles (39.9 km) with moderate climbs.
Are there challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?
Yes, South Hill's terrain includes rolling hills and routes with notable elevation changes. The Hartung–Boothroyd Observatory – Cornell University loop from Ithaca is a good example, featuring significant elevation gain over its 23.3 miles (37.4 km), making it a challenging option for experienced cyclists.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes around South Hill?
Road cycling routes around South Hill offer varied scenery, including natural preserves, rolling hills, and connections to local points of interest. You'll experience a blend of developed areas and natural landscapes, with many routes providing scenic views of the surrounding environment.
Are there any loop road cycling routes in South Hill?
Many of the road cycling routes in South Hill are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the East Ithaca Nature Preserve – Brookton's Market loop from East Ithaca and the Ithaca Commons – Ithaca Farmers Market loop from Ithaca.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along road cycling routes in South Hill?
Many routes pass by or near notable attractions. You might encounter stunning waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls, Lucifer Falls, or Triphammer Falls. Some routes also connect to areas like Cornell University or local markets, offering diverse points of interest.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in South Hill?
The road cycling routes in South Hill are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.1 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the mix of natural preserves, and the well-planned routes that cater to different abilities.
Are there road cycling routes that pass by coffee shops or local points of interest?
Yes, several routes connect local points of interest, which may include areas with coffee shops or markets. For instance, the Ithaca Commons – Ithaca Farmers Market loop from Ithaca takes you through central areas where you can find local amenities.
What is the best time of year for road biking in South Hill?
Given the varied terrain and natural preserves, spring through fall generally offers the most pleasant conditions for road biking in South Hill. During these seasons, you can enjoy the full beauty of the landscape without the challenges of winter weather.
What are the typical trail conditions for road biking in South Hill?
Road cycling in South Hill primarily uses paved roads and paths. Conditions can vary with weather, so it's always advisable to check local forecasts. The routes traverse a mix of developed areas and natural preserves, so you can expect well-maintained surfaces on most designated cycling paths.
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