The best road cycling routes around Richmond
4.6
(8)
744
riders
38
rides
Road cycling around Richmond, Virginia, offers a diverse landscape characterized by the James River and its tributaries, providing a mix of urban and natural environments. The region features varied terrain, including flat sections along river corridors and rolling hills, suitable for different cycling preferences. Historical areas and natural parks are integrated into many routes, offering scenic views and points of interest. This blend of features makes Richmond a notable destination for road cycling.
Best road cycling routes around Richmond
- The most popular road cycling route is Richmond loop to Buttertubs Pass — Yorkshire Dales National Park, a 52.7 miles (84.8 km) trail that takes 4 hours 14 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Beadale and River Tees loop from Richmond, a moderate 53.0 miles (85.3 km) path. This route offers a blend of river views and varied terrain.
- Local road cyclists also love the Tan Hill Road Climb – Reeth to Tan Hill Road loop from Richmond, a 57.4 miles (92.4 km) trail leading through challenging climbs, often completed in about 4 hours 38 minutes.
- Road cycling around Richmond is defined by river valleys, rolling hills, and a mix of urban and natural environments. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more difficult climbs.
- The routes in Richmond are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 8 reviews. More than 700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Richmond's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.3
(3)
130
riders
84.8km
04:14
1,170m
1,170m
Embark on a difficult road cycling adventure with the Richmond loop to Buttertubs Pass, a challenging route through the Yorkshire Dales National Park. This 52.7 miles (84.8 km) loop features a significant elevation gain of 3841 feet (1171 metres) and takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes to complete. You will encounter demanding climbs, including sections of Buttertubs Pass with gradients up to 20%, alongside picturesque views of dry stone walls, rolling hills, and open moorland. The charming market town of Richmond, with its Norman castle and cobbled marketplace, serves as your starting point. You will also see the distinctive 20-meter-deep limestone potholes that give Buttertubs Pass its name. The route offers stunning panoramas over Swaledale and Wensleydale, making it a truly rewarding ride for those with very good fitness.
When planning your visit, be prepared for exposed conditions on the upper slopes of the climb, where you might encounter wandering sheep. The road surfaces are generally well-paved, but the steepness of the climbs and sharp descents with tight hairpins require careful handling. Starting from Richmond provides easy access to this loop. This route is best enjoyed when the weather is clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the expansive views and tackle the challenging ascents safely. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as the Dales can be unpredictable.
Buttertubs Pass is an iconic climb in the cycling world, recognized in the "100 Greatest Cycling Climbs" list. Its fame grew significantly when it was featured as the second and highest categorized climb in Stage One of the 2014 Tour de France. The pass was also intended to be part of the 2019 UCI Road World Championships. The unique name comes from a historical practice where farmers would cool their butter in the deep limestone potholes while resting on their way to market. This route offers a chance to ride a piece of cycling history while experiencing the achingly beautiful surroundings of the Yorkshire Dales.
4
riders
85.3km
04:05
810m
810m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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3.0
(1)
120
riders
92.4km
04:39
1,420m
1,420m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
105
riders
88.6km
04:22
1,310m
1,310m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
39
riders
58.9km
03:19
1,150m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around Richmond
Tips from the Community
A classic stretch of high Pennine moorland, shaped by centuries of lead‑mining, with old hushes, spoil heaps, and trackways still etched into the heather. The moor forms part of the Reeth–Grinton–Harkerside upland block, giving wide, open views over Swaledale. Spectacular under a layer of snow in winter.
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Leave some extra time if you’ve enjoyed the food at Dales Bike Centre Café. Also be prepared for the Stang or more climbs after this starter
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Great place to stop for a break when out cycling. Richmond market place has plenty of cafes and pubs, for bite to eat and a refreshing drink.
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Fantastic loop from Hawes to Muker then Cross tops to Askridge then steady back to Hawes . The climbs are tough but an awesome ride
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Great castle/palace also wilde boar in roaming free behind it
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Bedale is a small market town in the district of Hambleton. It is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and is ideally situated for many of the Dales attractions.
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Bliss after climbing... fast return back to Richmond after a stop at The Dales Bike Cafe & Cakery of course !
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Lovely castle with a hard little climb alongside up into the village
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Richmond?
Richmond offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 35 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging climbs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Richmond?
Road cycling around Richmond features a diverse landscape. You'll find a mix of urban and natural environments, with routes traversing the James River and its tributaries. Expect varied terrain, including flat sections along river corridors and rolling hills, providing options for different cycling preferences.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Richmond?
Yes, Richmond has several beginner-friendly options. There are 6 easy road cycling routes available, offering a gentler introduction to the region's cycling paths. These routes often feature less elevation gain and provide a comfortable experience for those new to road cycling.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists in Richmond?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Richmond offers 8 difficult road cycling routes. These routes, such as the Richmond loop to Buttertubs Pass — Yorkshire Dales National Park, often feature significant elevation gain and longer distances, providing a demanding ride. Another challenging option is the Tan Hill Road Climb – Reeth to Tan Hill Road loop from Richmond, known for its climbs.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Richmond?
Richmond's diverse climate makes road cycling enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter can bring colder temperatures, though many routes remain accessible.
Are there long-distance road cycling routes available in Richmond?
Yes, Richmond is home to several long-distance routes. The Virginia Capital Trail, for instance, is a 52-mile paved path connecting downtown Richmond to Jamestown, offering a significant ride through varied landscapes. Routes like the Beadale and River Tees loop from Richmond also provide substantial distances for endurance cyclists.
Can I find loop road bike routes in Richmond?
Many of Richmond's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Richmond loop to Buttertubs Pass — Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Grinton Moor – Tan Hill Road Climb loop from Richmond, which offer circular journeys through the region's scenic areas.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while road cycling in Richmond?
Richmond is rich in history, and many cycling routes pass by significant landmarks. You can explore sites like Richmond Market Town and Castle, or the Ruins of Easby Abbey. The Virginia Capital Trail itself winds through historic battlefields and offers glimpses into the region's past.
Are there scenic viewpoints along the road cycling routes in Richmond?
Yes, Richmond's routes offer numerous scenic viewpoints. Libby Hill Park provides stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and the James River. You can also find picturesque spots like View of Richmond Castle from Low Bank Wood, offering beautiful vistas of the historic castle and surrounding landscape.
Are there cafes or amenities along the road cycling routes in Richmond?
Many routes, especially those closer to urban areas or popular trails like the Virginia Capital Trail, offer access to cafes and amenities. The Dales Bike Centre & Café is a notable stop for cyclists. For more information on local establishments, you might find resources on Visit Richmond VA's biking section.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Richmond?
The road cycling experience in Richmond is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of urban and natural environments, the varied terrain, and the historical integration along the routes. The well-maintained paths and scenic views are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
Are there road bike trails in Richmond with parking facilities?
Yes, many popular road cycling areas and trails in Richmond offer designated parking. For example, Pocahontas State Park provides extensive parking for cyclists accessing its trails. The Virginia Capital Trail also has various access points with parking along its 52-mile length, making it convenient to start your ride.
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