The best road cycling routes around Walkertown

The Salem Lake and Creek Greenway Loop offers a refreshing mix for road cyclists, combining smooth paved sections with natural surface paths around the lake. You'll cycle through tranquil, tree-lined greenways, past urban parks, and near historic Old Salem, before opening up to expansive views of Salem Lake. The lakeside portion is often shaded by hardwoods and pines, providing continuous glimpses of the water and opportunities to spot local wildlife like ducks and deer.

This easy 16.7-mile (26.9 km) route has a gentle 482 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete. While the Salem Creek Greenway is mostly paved, the 7-mile Salem Lake Trail is unpaved packed dirt and gravel, which can be challenging for narrow road bike tires due to roots and uneven terrain. Numerous parking access points are available along the route, and restrooms can be found at the Salem Lake Marina.

This popular multi-use trail is a local favorite for exercise, shared by cyclists, runners, and walkers. The varied terrain and scenery make it a notable route in the Winston-Salem area, connecting urban green spaces with natural lakeside beauty. It's an excellent option if you're looking for a diverse ride that's not too strenuous but still offers a good workout and plenty to see.

The Salem Lake loop from Wake Forest University offers a diverse and scenic road cycling experience, blending urban greenways with natural lakeside paths. As you pedal, you'll transition from paved sections of the Salem Creek Greenway to the mixed surface of the Salem Lake Trail, predominantly packed dirt and crushed gravel. The 20.0 miles (32.3 km) route provides continuous scenic views of the lake, often shaded by hardwoods and pines, with opportunities to spot local wildlife like ducks and herons.

This easy route, with 908 feet (277 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. While the greenway sections are smooth, be prepared for the mixed terrain around Salem Lake, which includes some tree roots and occasional rutted areas. Amenities like restrooms and picnic tables are available along the lake trail, making it a convenient stop for a break.

Connecting Wake Forest University to the popular Salem Lake, this route is a favorite for cyclists in the Winston-Salem area. The lake itself is a significant feature, providing drinking water for the city and offering opportunities for fishing and boating. Its blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility, along with the chance to cross the historic Old Salem Covered Wooden Bridge, makes it a notable option for a varied ride.

The Cascades Preserve gravel loop via Quarry Road offers a dynamic cycling experience through varied landscapes near Winston-Salem. You'll navigate a mix of greenways like the Salem Creek Greenway and the Waughtown Connector Greenway, but the real character of the ride emerges in the Cascades Preserve itself. Here, expect unpaved sections with lots of little hills and valleys, and even some tree roots coming up through the pathway, culminating in the scenic Cascades Preserve Waterfall.

This moderate 42.3-mile (68.0 km) route, with 1606 feet (490 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 2 hours and 54 minutes, is best tackled on a gravel bike. While specific parking information for this exact loop isn't widely available, the preserve is a local favorite. Plan your ride for cooler parts of the day or year, and ensure you bring ample hydration for the nearly three-hour journey.

This route stands out as a hidden gem in the Triad area, offering a natural escape reminiscent of the North Carolina mountains with its steep terrain and rocky streams. The Cascades Preserve protects 130 acres of natural landscapes and wildlife habitat, providing a unique blend of challenging cycling and picturesque countryside. It's a great option if you're looking for gravel cycling routes near Kernersville NC that offer both a workout and natural beauty.

The Mountains to Sea Trail and Winston-Salem Loop offers a fantastic road cycling experience through North Carolina's Piedmont region, showcasing a blend of urban and natural scenery. You'll pedal through an extensive network of greenways and rolling hills, passing by significant landmarks like the historic Shallow Ford of the Yadkin River. This moderate 60.2-mile (96.9 km) route, with its 2522 feet (769 metres) of elevation gain, is a rewarding journey for cyclists looking for a substantial day out. Expect to spend around 4 hours and 16 minutes in the saddle, enjoying the varied terrain.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the route is predominantly paved, making it suitable for most road bikes. However, be prepared for potential unpaved or sandy sections on some connecting roads, which could add a bit of challenge. Starting from various points around Winston-Salem, it's always a good idea to carry ample water, especially during warmer seasons, to stay hydrated throughout this engaging loop.

This route is part of the larger NC 2 Mountains to Sea route, which serves as a main artery for North Carolina's bicycle system, linking major cities. The Winston-Salem area's commitment to outdoor recreation shines through, offering a continuous cycling experience that traverses diverse ecosystems. It's a great way to explore the region's landscapes and connect with its history, making it a popular choice among local road cyclists.

The Old Salem Covered Wooden Bridge – Molly Leight's Crossing loop from Winston-Salem offers a substantial road cycling adventure, blending urban views with natural beauty. You'll ride past the tree-lined Salem Creek, enjoy expansive views across Salem Lake, and traverse through lush wooded areas and residential neighborhoods. The route features the charming Old Salem Covered Wooden Bridge and Molly Leight's Crossing, providing a scenic and varied journey for cyclists. This moderate 64.3-mile (103.5 km) ride, with 2789 feet (850 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes.

To tackle this route, plan for a full half-day on the bike. While primarily paved, be ready for some mixed terrain, as sections of the Winston-Salem Strollway might have pea gravel, and connecting trails could introduce dirt or roots. Starting from Winston-Salem, you'll find various access points, often integrating with the Salem Creek Greenway. Ensure you carry sufficient hydration and nutrition for the nearly five-hour duration.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the unique blend of history and nature that Winston-Salem offers. It connects the historic restored Moravian village of Old Salem with downtown, allowing you to explore significant landmarks like the Old Salem Covered Wooden Bridge, built in 1998 to resemble its historic counterparts. The diverse scenery, from city skyline glimpses to fragrant magnolia-lined paths, makes this a memorable ride for those with good fitness.