The best road cycling routes around Austin

Embark on the Mellow Johnny's Early Morning Tuesday loop, a racebike route that takes you through Austin's urban landscape. You'll encounter a dynamic mix of city streets and dedicated bike routes, featuring rolling terrain with some challenging hills. This moderate ride covers 29.9 miles (48.1 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1253 feet (382 metres). Expect to complete the loop in about 2 hours and 11 minutes, enjoying the city's atmosphere as you pedal. Keep an eye out for segments along the Lance Armstrong Bikeway, a key part of Austin's cycling network.

Your journey begins conveniently at Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, a well-known cycling hub located in downtown Austin. This shop serves as an ideal starting and finishing point for the route. You can easily find parking options in the vicinity of the shop before you set off. The shop also provides useful amenities like an in-house cafe and free commuter showers, perfect for before or after your ride.

This route is particularly notable for its strong community feel, often attracting groups of riders looking to connect and share the road. It offers a great way to experience Austin's vibrant cycling culture firsthand. The blend of urban scenery and dedicated bike paths makes it a popular choice for those wanting an engaging city ride.

Embark on an easy road cycling adventure along the Southern Walnut Creek and Austin to Manor Trail Loop, a route that spans 26.3 miles (42.3 km) with a gentle 662 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain. This ride, typically completed in about 1 hour and 57 minutes, immerses you in a natural setting as you wind through lush foliage and thickets of trees. You will experience a secluded feel, often catching glimpses of the distant downtown Austin skyline through breaks in the canopy. As you cycle, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and armadillos. The route also offers varied scenery, passing by a golf course and fields where cricket matches are played, adding unexpected visual interest to your journey.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and features clear, frequent signage, including mileage markers, to assist with navigation. You will find multiple access points along the loop, making it convenient to join the route at various locations that suit your starting preference. Parking is generally available at these access points, offering practical starting points for your road cycling excursion. This accessibility ensures you can easily begin your exploration of the Southern Walnut Creek and Austin to Manor Trail Loop.

This loop is situated within the broader area of Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park, offering a unique blend of urban proximity and natural escape. The Austin to Manor section of the trail notably skirts a tree-filled area along the shoreline of Walter E. Long Lake, providing picturesque views and a refreshing atmosphere. The varied landscape, from dense tree cover to open fields, highlights the diverse ecosystems present in this part of Texas. This trail stands out as an accessible and enjoyable option for cyclists looking to experience Austin's natural beauty without venturing too far from the city.

This moderate racebike route, the South Austin loop, offers a dynamic ride through the city's varied landscapes. You'll cover 30.3 miles (48.8 km) with an elevation gain of 1112 feet (339 metres), a journey that typically takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes. As you pedal, you'll experience a mix of urban scenery and natural beauty, particularly along Lady Bird Lake. The route provides open water views and lush pathways, with the Austin skyline frequently in sight. Crossing the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge gives you excellent vantage points over the water and city.

This route is accessible throughout the year, making it a reliable option for your racebike outings. You'll find amenities like restrooms, drinking fountains, and shaded groves conveniently located along the way. Since it's a popular area, be prepared to share the path with other cyclists and pedestrians, especially during peak times. The trail is generally wide enough to accommodate everyone comfortably. Consider an early morning start to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer crowds.

The South Austin loop is notable for its seamless integration of urban cycling with natural riverside environments. It showcases Austin's commitment to outdoor recreation, providing a unique perspective on the city's vibrant culture and green spaces. Beyond the scenic views, you might even spot Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, a well-known local landmark for cycling enthusiasts. This trail offers a great way to immerse yourself in the local Austin atmosphere while getting a good workout.

Embark on the Violet Crown Mckinney alternative loop for a moderate road cycling adventure, spanning 30.1 miles (48.5 km) with an elevation gain of 954 feet (291 metres). This route guides you through a diverse landscape of urban greenbelts and parks, featuring a mix of crushed granite pathways and smooth concrete sidewalks. You will enjoy the varied scenery, including views from the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, making for an engaging ride that typically takes about 2 hours and 26 minutes to complete.

Before you set out, be aware that while this specific loop is designed for road bikes, the wider Violet Crown Trail system includes sections with uneven, rocky terrain unsuitable for racebikes. Always check the specific segments of your planned ride to ensure they are compatible with your equipment. Planning your visit during daylight hours is recommended to fully appreciate the surroundings and navigate the varied surfaces safely.

This route provides a substantial workout for cyclists seeking a good challenge within the Austin area. It stands out by offering a unique blend of natural and urban environments, allowing you to explore different facets of the city's outdoor spaces. The trail's design ensures a consistent surface for most of its length, distinguishing it from other parts of the broader trail network.