The best road cycling routes around Point Venture

The Shepherd Mountain loop, despite its name, is a challenging mountain biking route, not a road cycling trail. You'll find yourself navigating steep descents, natural rock features, and technical sections like jumps and berms, all set within the scenic Ozark Mountains. This 33.8-mile (54.4 km) route, with its 2050 feet (625 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes around 2 hours and 35 minutes, but only if you're on a full-suspension mountain bike ready for a rugged experience.

If you're planning a visit, be aware that the Shepherd Mountain Bike Park in Ironton, Missouri, is geared entirely towards mountain biking. While there's an access track to the peak, it's unpaved and steep, making it unsuitable for road bikes. Parking is available at the bike park, but don't expect road cycling-specific amenities or conditions. This is a destination for experienced mountain bikers seeking adrenaline, not a leisurely road ride.

What makes Shepherd Mountain notable is its reputation for bringing tough, gravity-fed trails, typically found in the American Northwest, to the Midwest. It's recognized for its raw, natural, and technical downhill experiences, attracting riders who crave a significant challenge and even hosts events like the Missouri Enduro Series. This park is a testament to aggressive mountain biking, offering a unique and demanding experience for the right kind of cyclist.

The Violet Crown Pace Bend x4 loop offers a quintessential Texas Hill Country road cycling experience, winding through Pace Bend Park with constant views of Lake Travis. You'll ride on mostly well-paved surfaces, encountering a mix of rolling hills and significant climbs that keep the ride engaging. The west side of the park, with its high limestone cliffs and rocky coves, provides particularly impressive vistas, especially as the sun begins to set over the lake.

This moderate 24.9-mile (40.0 km) route, with 781 feet (238 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 9 minutes to complete. It's a great option for road cyclists with good fitness looking for a scenic and moderately challenging ride. Pace Bend Park offers ample parking, making access straightforward for a day trip.

Named in part for the Violet Crown Sports Association, a long-standing Austin cycling club, this route is a local favorite. Beyond the cycling, Pace Bend Park itself is a peaceful oasis extending into Lake Travis, home to diverse wildlife like whitetail deer and various bird species. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Lake Travis area.

The Spicewood Parkway – Cedar Crest Drive loop from Mansfield Dam offers a classic Texas Hill Country road cycling experience, winding through wooded areas and open landscapes. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, with rewarding views of limestone bluffs and Lake Travis as you tackle the undulating terrain. This route is a great way to immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty while enjoying a challenging ride.

Plan for a moderate 29.2-mile (47.0 km) ride that includes 1364 feet (416 metres) of climbing, typically taking around 2 hours and 43 minutes. The Mansfield Dam area is a well-known cycling hub, so consider arriving early for parking, especially on pleasant days. While the roads are generally well-maintained, some sections might be unpaved, adding to the adventure. The best time of year for cycling here is often spring or fall, when temperatures are milder.

This loop is part of the broader Mansfield Dam cycling routes, which are highly regarded in the Austin area's active cycling community. The region is known for its steep climbs and picturesque scenery, making it a desirable location for cyclists seeking both a workout and scenic vistas. After your ride, you can find various restaurants in nearby towns like Lakeway to grab a bite.