The best cycling routes around Petersburg

Petersburg offers a selection of touring cycling routes. Our guide features 5 distinct routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, providing diverse experiences for cyclists exploring the region.

The terrain for touring cycling in Petersburg is quite varied. You'll find a mix of flat river trails, gently rolling sections, and areas with moderate elevation changes. Many routes utilize former rail lines and scenic roadways, often passing through wooded areas and open countryside. For example, the Bike repair station – Williamsburg loop from Water Street features both paved and unpaved sections.

While our current guide focuses on moderate to difficult routes, Petersburg does offer some accessible options. The Libby Straits Bike Path, a paved path along the Wrangell Narrows, is about 3 miles long and provides beautiful, easy-to-navigate views, making it suitable for leisurely rides with family. The region's diverse trail system also includes boardwalks and less strenuous paths that can be explored.

Petersburg is generally welcoming to dogs on trails, especially in the vast Tongass National Forest. However, specific regulations can vary by trail or park. It's always best to check local signage or the specific trail's guidelines before heading out with your dog. Many of the gravel logging roads on Mitkof Island are also suitable for cycling with a well-behaved, leashed dog.

Petersburg's touring cycling routes offer access to stunning natural beauty. You can expect views of the snow-covered Coastal Mountains and the dramatic Devil's Thumb. The region is surrounded by the Tongass National Forest, the largest temperate rainforest. While cycling, you might also catch glimpses of Frederick Sound, known for humpback whales in June and July, and icebergs from LeConte Glacier. The State Game Lands Number 322 loop from Huntingdon, for instance, leads through varied terrain that showcases the local landscape.

Yes, several routes in Petersburg are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Bike repair station – Williamsburg loop from Water Street and the State Game Lands Number 322 loop from Huntingdon are both circular routes, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your path.

The best time for touring cycling in Petersburg is generally during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. June and July are particularly good for wildlife viewing, especially humpback whales in Frederick Sound. During these months, the weather is typically milder, and trails are more accessible. Always be prepared for variable weather conditions, as is common in Southeast Alaska.

Petersburg offers routes for various fitness levels. Our guide includes 4 moderate routes and 1 difficult route. The moderate routes, like the State Game Lands Number 322 loop from Oneida Township, feature significant elevation gain and descents. The difficult route, such as the Bike repair station loop from Water Street, presents more substantial climbs and descents, challenging experienced cyclists.

Parking availability varies depending on your chosen starting point. For routes along the Mitkof Highway Recreation Corridor, there are often designated parking areas near attractions like Blind River Rapids or trailheads. In Petersburg itself, you can usually find parking near the waterfront or public access points to bike paths. Always check local signage for parking regulations.

Public transport options directly to specific trailheads outside of Petersburg's immediate downtown area are limited. Most touring cyclists rely on personal vehicles or local taxi services to reach more remote starting points. Within Petersburg, the Libby Straits Bike Path is easily accessible from the town center.

Generally, no specific permits are required for touring cycling on established roads and trails around Petersburg, including those within the Tongass National Forest. However, if you plan to access private lands or specific recreational areas, it's always wise to check for any local regulations or fees that might apply. For most public access routes, you can cycle freely.

Petersburg is rich in wildlife. While cycling, you might spot eagles soaring overhead, river otters, harbor seals, and various seabirds. Bears are also present in the Tongass National Forest, so it's important to be bear-aware and carry bear spray. In Frederick Sound, you have a good chance of seeing humpback whales, orcas, and porpoises, especially during the summer months.

Yes, Petersburg, being an island community, offers several routes with coastal views. The Libby Straits Bike Path runs along the Wrangell Narrows, providing beautiful views of the water and Petersburg Creek, especially at sunset. The Three Lakes & Ideal Cove Trail system, located on Mitkof Highway, also connects to the coast at Ideal Cove, offering views of the coast range and Frederick Sound.

The touring cycling routes in Petersburg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from riverfront paths to wooded sections, and the opportunity to explore historic roadways. The blend of accessible routes and stunning natural features, including views of glaciers and marine wildlife, is frequently highlighted as a major draw.