The best traffic-free bike rides in Geary County

Geary County, situated in the scenic Flint Hills, offers road cyclists a landscape characterized by rolling hills, rough limestone outcroppings, and expansive bluestem prairies. The routes feature winding roads that provide a picturesque backdrop, allowing riders to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty and diverse crop fields.

Yes, Geary County offers several easy no-traffic road cycling routes. For instance, the Morris Hill – Caisson Hill loop from Fort Riley Elementary is an easy 29.2 km ride with moderate elevation gain. Another great option for beginners is the Morris Hill – Machine Gun Ridge loop from Fort Riley North, which is 15.0 km long and also rated as easy.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Geary County feature varying elevation gains due to the rolling terrain of the Flint Hills. For example, the Packers Hill – Campbell Hill loop from Marshall Army Airfield has an elevation gain of approximately 170 meters over 24.2 km, while the Harvey Hill – Campbell Hill loop from Fort Riley Elementary climbs about 228 meters over 33.4 km.

While the specific road cycling routes listed focus on the open road, Geary County itself is rich in natural beauty. The region is part of the Flint Hills, offering expansive prairie views. Nearby attractions include Milford Lake, the largest lake in Kansas, and the Geary County Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area, home to the state's tallest waterfall, which is most active in spring or after heavy rains. The Kansas River also begins its journey here.

The best time to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Geary County is typically during spring and fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with spring bringing lush bluestem prairies and fall showcasing colorful foliage. Summer can be warm, while winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for colder conditions.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes highlighted in this guide are designed as loops. This allows for convenient starting and ending points without needing to retrace your path. Examples include the Packers Hill – Campbell Hill loop and the Morris Hill – Caisson Hill loop.

The routes often start from locations like Marshall Army Airfield, Fort Riley Elementary, or Fort Riley North. These areas typically offer parking facilities suitable for accessing the routes. It's always advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability before your ride.

Cycling through Geary County's natural landscapes, especially within the Flint Hills and near areas like Konza Prairie, offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. You might spot various bird species, including bald eagles in winter near the Republican River, as well as other prairie animals. The Junction City Wetlands Trail, though not a road cycling route, is specifically designed for wildlife observation.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Harvey Hill – Campbell Hill loop from Fort Riley Elementary covers approximately 33.4 km and is rated as moderate. This route provides a good challenge with its distance and elevation changes, offering an extended experience through the region's scenic roads.

While the specific road cycling routes in this guide are on open roads with minimal traffic, for a more dedicated family-friendly experience, you might consider the broader trail network in Geary County. The Riverwalk Trail, for example, is a 4.8-mile crushed limestone path suitable for all ages and connects to Milford State Park's trail system for a continuous 14-mile route, offering a safer, car-free environment for families.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Geary County cater to a range of abilities. You'll find routes rated as 'easy,' such as the Morris Hill – Machine Gun Ridge loop, and 'moderate' routes like the Packers Hill – Campbell Hill loop. There are no routes currently listed as 'difficult,' making the area accessible for most road cyclists looking for a pleasant ride.