The best road cycling routes around Wallace

There are 5 road cycling routes around Wallace featured in this guide, ranging from easy to difficult. These routes offer diverse experiences across the region's unique landscapes.

Yes, Wallace offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. Two routes in this guide are rated easy, including the Mullan – Wallace loop from Wallace, which covers just under 24 km with moderate elevation gain.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Wallace has more demanding options. The Wallace – Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes loop from Gene Day Park is rated difficult, spanning over 87 km with more than 900 meters of elevation gain, offering a significant workout amidst scenic views.

Road cycling in Wallace offers stunning natural landscapes, from deep wooded canyons and alpine forests to tumbling mountain streams. Many routes follow historic rail-to-trail conversions, providing smooth surfaces through mountainous terrain. You'll experience the 'high mountain splendor' of the Bitterroot Mountains and the picturesque South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River.

While the road cycling routes in this guide focus on paved paths, the broader region is known for its natural beauty. The nearby Route of the Hiawatha, though primarily a mountain biking trail, is famous for its waterfalls and scenic views. The Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, which some road routes incorporate, also offers views of lakeshores.

The region around Wallace is very family-friendly, especially with its rail-to-trail conversions. Routes like the Mullan – Wallace loop from Wallace are rated easy and provide a gentle introduction to road cycling for families. The smooth, paved surfaces of trails like the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes are ideal for all ages.

Wallace is a popular outdoor destination, and parking is generally available. Many routes, such as the Wallace – Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes loop from Gene Day Park, start from accessible locations like Gene Day Park, which typically offers parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific starting points for detailed parking information.

The best time for road cycling in Wallace is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are clear of snow. Fall offers particularly beautiful scenery with changing foliage in the forested canyons.

Wallace and the surrounding historic mining towns along the routes offer various amenities. You'll find cafes, pubs, and restaurants in towns like Wallace, Mullan, and Kellogg, providing convenient stops for refreshments and meals during your ride. These towns also offer a glimpse into the region's rich history.

The road cycling routes around Wallace are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the smooth surfaces of the rail-to-trail conversions, and the unique experience of cycling through historic mining towns and scenic canyons.

Yes, Wallace is an excellent base for longer road cycling adventures. The Wallace – Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes loop from Gene Day Park is a substantial route at over 87 km. The region's extensive network of former rail beds, including the 73-mile Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes, allows for extended rides through diverse scenery.

Many of the road cycling routes in Wallace, particularly those utilizing the converted rail beds, offer a peaceful experience away from heavy traffic. The Northern Pacific Trail, for instance, provides a quiet backcountry experience through alpine forests. Even routes like the Mullan – Wallace loop from Wallace offer stretches of serene riding.