The best cycling routes around Lawrence

There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Lawrence, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 11 reviews.

Lawrence offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You can find paved leisure trails, challenging gravel routes through quiet farmlands, and scenic paths along riverfronts and through wetland areas. The region is characterized by rolling hills, providing varied elevation changes.

Yes, Lawrence has options suitable for families. The Montour Trail loop from Hays Park is an easy 9.8-mile route, often completed in under an hour, making it a good choice for a more relaxed family outing. The Lawrence Loop also offers easy, paved sections ideal for all ages.

The Lawrence Loop is an ambitious project creating a continuous urban greenway over 22 miles long around the city. It offers a safe way to experience Lawrence by bike, connecting various parts of the city. Along the Loop, you can experience sections like the Baker Wetlands, which is a significant natural area supporting diverse plant and animal species, offering unique landscapes away from main roads.

Cyclists can enjoy several natural features and landmarks. Clinton State Park, located near Lawrence, offers scenic views of Clinton Lake. The Kansas River and its riverfront trails provide beautiful river views. The Baker Wetlands offer a unique ecological experience. Additionally, routes like the Chicken Creek Gravel Route feature picturesque pasture views and a portion along the historic Santa Fe Trail, including the Chicken Creek Arch Bridge.

For a longer and more challenging ride, consider the Tunnel – Montour Trail loop from Hendersonville. This moderate 19.0-mile route features notable elevation gain through scenic landscapes, providing a more vigorous touring experience.

Lawrence is recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community, making it enjoyable for cycling through much of the year. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring. While specific seasonal closures are not common, it's always a good idea to check local weather conditions, especially after heavy rain, as some unpaved trails might become muddy.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Lawrence are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the popular Montour Trail and South Park Loop, the Tunnel – Montour Trail loop from Hendersonville, and the Montour Trail loop from Hays Park.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse trail systems, ranging from easy paved paths to challenging gravel routes, and the scenic natural backdrops like Clinton Lake and the Baker Wetlands. The city's commitment to being bicycle-friendly is also a highlight.

Yes, several points of interest can be found along or near the touring routes. You might encounter the historic National Tunnel, the Greer Tunnel and Chartiers Creek Bridge, or various sections of the Montour Trail itself. These provide interesting stops and photo opportunities during your ride.

Lawrence offers numerous access points for its trail networks. For instance, the Montour Trail Trailhead is a designated starting point. Clinton State Park and various city parks also provide parking facilities. For the Lawrence Loop, multiple access points are available around the city, often with nearby parking.

Yes, the majority of touring cycling routes in Lawrence are classified as moderate. For example, the Montour Trail and South Park Loop is a moderate 12.5-mile route featuring varied terrain and elevation changes, suitable for cyclists looking for a good workout without extreme difficulty.