1.
Harris Lake – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs
104km
04:35
740m
740m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The best road cycling routes around Fuquay-Varina
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 4, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Fuquay-Varina, you know how quickly the sheer number of routes can feel overwhelming. It's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the very best. Consider this your shortcut to finding the rides that truly deliver.
Road cycling around Fuquay-Varina offers a delightful mix of extensive greenways, diverse forest habitats, and scenic lake views. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging rides with notable hills and moderate elevation changes. The terrain is varied, providing a good range for all abilities, and May and August are particularly popular months to hit the roads here.
If you only do one ride, we'd start with the popular Harris Lake – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs, a moderate 64.3 miles (103.6 km) that offers fantastic lake views and diverse forest scenery. For another local favorite that gives you a real feel for the area, check out the View of Cape Fear River – Performance Fibers Forest loop from Holly Springs, a 48.8 miles (78.6 km) route that lives up to its name. With more than 200 road cyclists having explored Fuquay-Varina with komoot, you're in good company.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harris Lake – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs | 104 km | 740 m | Moderate |
| View of Cape Fear River – Performance Fibers Forest loop from Holly Springs | 78.6 km | 520 m | Moderate |
| Burney's Sweets & More loop from Fuquay-Varina | 101 km | 570 m | Moderate |
| View of Beaver Creek Wetlands – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs | 120 km | 810 m | Hard |
| Jordan Lake – Mountains-to-Sea Trail loop from Holly Springs | 118 km | 960 m | Hard |
| Roadbike loop from Holly Springs | 38.1 km | 260 m | Easy |
| Roadbike loop from Fuquay-Varina | 35.4 km | 250 m | Easy |
| Johnson Pond – Carter Fountain loop from Park Depot Greenway Lot | 58.4 km | 330 m | Moderate |
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2.
View of Cape Fear River – Performance Fibers Forest loop from Holly Springs
78.6km
03:21
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
3.
Burney's Sweets & More loop from Fuquay-Varina
101km
04:19
570m
570m
If you're looking for popular road cycling routes starting Fuquay-Varina NC that combine a good workout with a delicious reward, the Burney's Sweets & More loop is a fantastic option. This moderate 62.8-mile (101.0 km) road cycling route takes you through the rolling hills and varied landscapes of the North Carolina Piedmont, offering a mix of rural and suburban scenery. With 1862 feet (568 metres) of elevation gain, it's a solid ride that typically takes around 4 hours and 19 minutes, culminating in a well-deserved stop at a beloved bakery.
Planning your visit for this Burney's Sweets & More Fuquay-Varina road cycling loop is straightforward: simply set out from Fuquay-Varina and follow the route to Erwin. The main attraction is the Burney's Sweets & More bakery, which is perfectly positioned for a mid-ride break to refuel with pastries and coffee. The route primarily uses well-paved roads, suitable for road bikes, and while it requires good fitness, the climbs are generally gradual rather than overly steep.
What makes this route stand out among other Fuquay-Varina cycling routes is its unique destination. Burney's Sweets & More in Erwin is a local institution, known for its wide variety of treats. Its proximity to the Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail also offers an interesting contrast, allowing you to briefly explore a flat, multi-use path if you desire a short break from road cycling. This loop is a great way to experience the region's cycling terrain while enjoying a memorable culinary stop.
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4.
View of Beaver Creek Wetlands – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs
120km
05:08
810m
810m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5.
Jordan Lake – Mountains-to-Sea Trail loop from Holly Springs
118km
05:18
960m
960m
The Jordan Lake – Mountains-to-Sea Trail loop from Holly Springs offers a demanding road cycling experience through North Carolina's diverse landscape. You'll pedal past the expansive Jordan Lake, enjoying views of its waters framed by pine and hardwood forests, and traverse wetland ecosystems. The route's position between the Piedmont and Coastal Plain regions means you'll encounter a mix of flat sections and significant climbs, making for a varied and engaging ride that keeps you working.
This difficult 73.6-mile (118.5 km) loop, with its 3135 feet (955 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious undertaking that typically takes around 5 hours and 17 minutes to complete. Starting from Holly Springs, you'll primarily use paved roads, though some segments in the wider area might include unpaved portions, so it's wise to confirm your specific route. Be prepared for sections of public roads that may have limited or no shoulders, requiring extra caution.
This route allows you to connect with portions of North Carolina's iconic Mountains-to-Sea Trail, even though it's primarily a hiking path. The area around Jordan Lake is known for its natural beauty and the chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles near old farm ponds. It's a rewarding challenge for advanced cyclists who appreciate a long, scenic ride with plenty of climbing.
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6.
Roadbike loop from Holly Springs
38.1km
01:44
260m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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7.
Roadbike loop from Fuquay-Varina
35.4km
01:31
250m
250m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
8.
Johnson Pond – Carter Fountain loop from Park Depot Greenway Lot
58.4km
02:34
330m
330m
This 36.3-mile (58.4 km) road cycling loop, starting from the Park Depot Greenway Lot, offers a moderate ride through the North Carolina landscape, combining dedicated greenway paths with sections of road. You'll experience a varied journey with 1098 feet (335 metres) of elevation gain, making it a good choice for cyclists seeking a substantial workout without extreme climbs. The route provides a taste of the region's well-maintained greenway system, offering a smooth and generally vehicle-free experience for much of the ride.
Planning your outing is straightforward, with the Park Depot Greenway Lot in Fuquay-Varina, NC, providing easy access and parking. Since portions of the route are likely on greenways, which are typically unlit, aim for daytime cycling. The best times to tackle this 2-hour and 33-minute ride are during the pleasant spring and fall months, or early on summer mornings to beat the heat.
This route taps into the extensive network of greenways and on-road bike facilities that communities like Cary and Fuquay-Varina, NC, are known for. While specific details about the "Carter Fountain" segment for road cycling are less clear, the "Johnson Pond Road" area is recognized for road cycling. This loop offers a practical way to explore the local cycling infrastructure, connecting different areas and providing a solid endurance ride within the broader Raleigh greenway system.
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Tips from the Community
Jamie S.
February 16, 2024, View of Cape Fear River
From this spot where Avents Ferry Road crosses Cape Fear River, you get great views over the water. There is also a boat access ramp here on the northern side of the road.
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Scott
February 8, 2024, View of Beaver Creek Wetlands
During spring, the area around the creek comes alive with wildflowers and buzzing with insect life. Fall transforms the landscape with vibrant foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for your journey.
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AaronLavanchy
February 5, 2024, Jordan Lake
Jordan Lake is a 13,940-acre reservoir that is part of the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. More than just offering recreational opportunities, Jordan Lake is the major water supply for central North Carolina.
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AaronLavanchy
February 5, 2024, Harris Lake
Harris Lake is a 4,100-acre reservoir that serves as both the source and outlet of cooling water for the Harris Nuclear Plant. The northeast section of the lake is home to the 680-acre Harris Lake County Park.
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AaronLavanchy
January 16, 2024, Jordan Lake
Jordan Lake is a 13,940-acre reservoir built in 1974 and serves as a major water supply for central North Carolina. Jordan Lake offers boating, camping, fishing, swimming, and a full-service marina.
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David Howells
January 2, 2024, Mountains-to-Sea Trail
North Carolina's Mountains to the Sea Trail is a brilliant 1,175 mile hiking trail that stretches across from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks. As it meanders across the state's lofty tops it passes numerous beautiful places along its length. Most of this trail is a hiking trail but stretches of it are open to cyclists on connecting roads. This is one such stretch.
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EuroCyclingTrips
November 28, 2023, Performance Fibers Forest
A small forest along Old Highway 1 between the fire department building and the Haw River.
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Jamie S.
November 15, 2023, Jordan Lake and New Hope Game Lands Overlook
From this spot on Farrington Road, just south of Bells, you get a great view over one of the many inlets of Jordan Lake and the New Hope Game Lands. This is a great place to pause and admire the views over the water before continuing on your ride.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of road cycling routes can I find around Fuquay-Varina?
Fuquay-Varina offers a diverse range of road cycling routes, from easy loops to more challenging rides with notable elevation changes. You'll find routes that traverse extensive greenways, diverse forest habitats, and scenic lake views. The area is situated within the Neuse River and Cape Fear River Basins, contributing to varied landscapes.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Fuquay-Varina area?
There are over 30 road cycling routes available around Fuquay-Varina. These include 12 easy routes, 17 moderate routes, and 2 more difficult options, catering to various skill levels.
Are there any routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging ride?
Yes, for those seeking more challenge, some routes around Fuquay-Varina include segments with notable climbs. For example, the region features hills like Wagstaff Hill (3.8% grade) and Cokesbury Southbound (3.4% grade). A more difficult option is the View of Beaver Creek Wetlands – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs, which covers over 700 meters of elevation gain.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views of natural features. You can cycle past Harris Lake, Lake Wheeler, and the Cape Fear River. The area also features greenways like the Symphony Lake Greenway. For historical interest, Yates Mill, a historic gristmill, and Hemlock Bluffs Overlook are within reach for exploration.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Fuquay-Varina?
Yes, Fuquay-Varina's extensive network of greenways and trails provides safe and enjoyable paved surfaces suitable for families. The Hilltop Needmore Town Park features five miles of paved trails varying in difficulty, and the Symphony Lake Greenway offers a 2-mile paved loop that is popular among cyclists of all ages.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Fuquay-Varina?
The road cycling routes in Fuquay-Varina are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 9 reviews. Over 200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic lake views and diverse forest habitats.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available?
Yes, Fuquay-Varina offers several long-distance routes. For example, the Harris Lake – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs is a substantial 64.3-mile (103.6 km) trail. Another option is the Burney's Sweets & More loop from Fuquay-Varina, which is over 100 km long.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in the area?
Many of the road cycling routes around Fuquay-Varina are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the Harris Lake loop from Fuquay-Varina and the View of Cape Fear River – Performance Fibers Forest loop from Holly Springs.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or explore near the cycling routes?
The active cycling community in Fuquay-Varina often organizes events that start and finish at local establishments like Aviator Brewing Co., suggesting there are places to stop for refreshments. The town also has various parks and green spaces, including the historic Fuquay Mineral Spring Park, ideal for picnics or a break.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Fuquay-Varina?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the diverse landscapes and greenways suggest that spring and fall would offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be warm, and winters are generally mild, allowing for year-round cycling with appropriate gear.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Fuquay-Varina?
Many parks and greenway access points in Fuquay-Varina offer parking facilities. For instance, Hilltop Needmore Town Park, which features five miles of paved trails, would likely have parking. Additionally, starting points for routes often have designated parking areas.
Are there any specific routes that offer particularly scenic views?
Yes, several routes are known for their scenic beauty. The Harris Lake – Jordan Lake loop from Holly Springs offers scenic lake views and diverse forest habitats. Routes that pass by Harris Lake, Lake Wheeler, or the Cape Fear River are generally very picturesque.
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