1.
Perry Monument – Presque Isle Bike Path loop from Erie
34.4km
01:30
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The best road cycling routes around Erie
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Erie, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many routes out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That's exactly why we created this guide. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we've done the legwork to bring you a curated shortlist of the best road cycling in Erie, saving you all the guesswork.
Road cycling around Erie truly offers something for everyone. The region is defined by the expansive Lake Erie shoreline and the unique Presque Isle State Park peninsula, providing mostly flat waterfront paths with refreshing breezes. Venture a little further, and you'll find rural countryside roads with moderate elevation changes, offering a good mix of challenges. Whether you prefer a leisurely spin or a more demanding ride, the landscape here delivers.
If you only do one ride, make it the Presque Isle Bike Path – Duck Pond loop from Erie. This easy 18.3 miles (29.5 km) route is perfect for a first visit, offering continuous scenic views of Lake Erie and the park's natural beauty. For a slightly different take on Presque Isle, the Perry Monument – Dead Pond loop from W Lake Rd at Grace St is a moderate 25.9 miles (41.6 km) ride that local cyclists love. Dive in and discover why more than 200 road cyclists have already explored Erie's varied terrain with komoot.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perry Monument – Presque Isle Bike Path loop from Erie | 34.4 km | 90 m | Easy |
| Perry Monument – Dead Pond loop from W Lake Rd at Grace St | 51.1 km | 150 m | Moderate |
| Perry Monument – Dead Pond loop from Millcreek Township | 51.1 km | 190 m | Moderate |
| Findlay Lake Overlook loop from Harborcreek | 59.1 km | 510 m | Moderate |
| Behrend Pond loop from Millcreek Township | 29.1 km | 330 m | Moderate |
| Duck Pond – Presque Isle Bike Path loop from Sommerheim Park Archaeological District | 12.3 km | 10 m | Easy |
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2.
Perry Monument – Dead Pond loop from W Lake Rd at Grace St
51.1km
02:21
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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3.
Perry Monument – Dead Pond loop from Millcreek Township
51.1km
02:14
190m
190m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.
Findlay Lake Overlook loop from Harborcreek
59.1km
02:39
510m
510m
The Findlay Lake Overlook loop from Harborcreek offers a challenging and scenic road cycling experience through diverse terrain. You'll pedal through tranquil wetlands and wooded areas, with the landscape changing to offer picturesque views, particularly stunning in spring with blooming flora and in fall with vibrant foliage. The route features notable elevation changes and moderate to challenging climbs, all on well-paved surfaces, making it a rewarding ride for those with good fitness.
To tackle this 36.7-mile (59.1 km) loop with 1662 feet (507 metres) of elevation gain, plan for approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes of riding. Starting from Harborcreek Township, this circular route allows you to begin and end at the same point. Consider riding in spring or fall to best appreciate the natural beauty, and ensure you're prepared for the moderate difficulty and significant climbs.
This route stands out in the Northwest Harborcreek area for its substantial length and elevation profile, providing a more strenuous adventure compared to flatter lakeside options. While specific details about the overlook itself are not provided, the broader region offers serene lake views around nearby Findley Lake, along with charming shops and a generally beautiful countryside dotted with vacation cottages and historical sites.
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5.
Behrend Pond loop from Millcreek Township
29.1km
01:28
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
6.
Duck Pond – Presque Isle Bike Path loop from Sommerheim Park Archaeological District
12.3km
00:38
10m
10m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
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Tips from the Community
mtm05005
June 19, 2024, Cascade Creek
The Bayfront Bikeway follows along Cascade Creek for several miles. At this point, the creek is very close to the trail in a heavily wooded area. On a sunny day, this is a great spot for a break in the shade.
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mtm05005
June 19, 2024, Frontier Park
Frontier Park is a great park in downtown Erie. There are a mix of paved and dirt tracks that pass through the park, including the Frontier Bikeway.
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mtm05005
June 19, 2024, Erie Harbor North Pier Light
The Erie Harbor North Pier Light is one of three lighthouses on Lake Erie. The lighthouse was constructed in 1830 and is still active, although it is now automated.
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mtm05005
June 19, 2024, Presque Isle Bike Path
The Presque Isle Bike Path is a 13.5-mile multiuse path on Presque Isle. The trail is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists.
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Alex
February 7, 2024, Cascade Creek
This creek is absolutely stunning from the bikepath. The tiered worn away stone levels provides a perfect spot to take a break off the bike in the shade.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Erie?
Erie offers a variety of road cycling routes, with over 9 routes detailed on komoot. These routes cater to different preferences, including easy, flat rides and those with moderate elevation gains.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Erie?
Yes, Erie has several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners and families. A notable option is the Perry Monument – Dead Pond loop from Presque Isle State Park, an easy 10.8-mile path that navigates the flat terrain of Presque Isle, passing tranquil wetlands. The Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail within Presque Isle State Park is also an excellent, mostly flat, paved 13.5-mile circuit.
What are the most scenic road cycling routes in Erie?
Many routes in Erie offer scenic views, particularly those along the Lake Erie shoreline and within Presque Isle State Park. The Perry Monument – Presque Isle Bike Path loop from Erie provides stunning views of Lake Erie and the natural features of the peninsula. The Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail also offers picturesque vistas of the lake, wetlands, and wooded areas.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Erie?
Erie's road cycling routes feature diverse terrain. You'll find extensive flat, paved paths, especially around Presque Isle State Park and along the Bayfront Bikeway. Other areas within Erie County offer moderate elevation changes and rural countryside roads, providing options for varied cycling experiences.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders in Erie?
While many routes are easy to moderate, some offer more significant elevation gains. For example, the Findlay Lake Overlook loop from Harborcreek Township is a moderate 36.7-mile route with over 1,600 feet of elevation gain, providing a more challenging ride for experienced cyclists.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes in Erie?
Many routes offer access to notable attractions. Along the Presque Isle routes, you can see the Perry Monument and natural features like Dead Pond, Lake Erie Beach, and Gull Point Beach. The Bayfront Bikeway also offers urban and waterfront views, connecting to areas like Frontier Park and the Lake Erie Arboretum.
Is public transport available to access road cycling trails in Erie?
Yes, public transport options are available. The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides bus services, including routes that can take you to areas near Presque Isle State Park and the Bayfront Bikeway, making it easier to access various cycling trails without a car.
Do I need a permit or special pass to cycle on trails in Erie, particularly in Presque Isle State Park?
Generally, you do not need a special permit to cycle on public trails in Erie. For Presque Isle State Park, cycling is permitted on the Karl Boyes Multi-Purpose Trail. For specific rules and regulations regarding cycling within the park, you can consult the official Pennsylvania DCNR website for Presque Isle State Park.
Are dogs allowed on road cycling trails in Erie?
Rules regarding dogs vary by location. In Presque Isle State Park, leashed dogs are generally permitted on trails, but it's always best to check specific park regulations for any restrictions or designated areas. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Erie?
The best time for road cycling in Erie is typically from spring through fall. Spring offers fresh greenery, summer provides warm weather for lakeside rides, and fall brings vibrant foliage, especially on routes that venture into wooded or rural areas. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of weather conditions.
Are there any loop road cycling routes in Erie?
Yes, many road cycling routes in Erie are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Perry Monument – Presque Isle Bike Path loop from Erie and the Cascade Creek – Perry Monument loop from Millcreek Township, allowing you to return to your starting location without retracing your path.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Erie?
Parking is generally available at popular access points for road cycling routes. For Presque Isle State Park, there are numerous parking lots throughout the park. For routes along the Bayfront Bikeway or in other areas of Erie, look for public parking facilities or designated trailheads. Always check local signage for parking regulations.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Erie?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the flat, scenic waterfront paths of Presque Isle to the varied terrain of the wider county, and the well-maintained trails that cater to all skill levels.
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