The best traffic-free bike rides in Allegan County

There are 11 no-traffic road cycling routes available in Allegan County, offering a variety of distances and experiences for cyclists looking to avoid vehicular traffic.

Allegan County offers a diverse landscape for road cycling. You'll find routes ranging from relatively flat lake plains to gently rolling morainal features. The routes in this guide include 6 easy and 5 moderate options, with elevations varying. For example, the Allegan County route covers over 57 km with about 175 meters of elevation gain, while the Downtown Saugatuck – Kalamazoo Lake loop from Wolters Woods Park is an easier 28 km ride with around 108 meters of elevation.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families, particularly those looking for easier rides. The guide features 6 easy routes, which are generally shorter and have less elevation gain. A good example is the Downtown Saugatuck – Kalamazoo Lake loop from Wolters Woods Park, which is an easy 28 km ride.

Allegan County boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty. Many routes offer views of Lake Michigan's coastline, rolling farmlands, and extensive forests, including the vast Allegan State Game Area. You might also encounter riparian zones along the Kalamazoo River. The area around Saugatuck and Oval Beach is particularly scenic, offering lakeside vistas and dunes.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Roadbike loop from Kal-Haven Trail State Park, the Oval Beach – Kalamazoo Lake loop from Saugatuck, and the Downtown Saugatuck – Kalamazoo Lake loop from Wolters Woods Park.

Allegan County offers several points of interest. You might pass by the Covered Bridge and South Branch Black River on the Kal-Haven Trail, enjoy the sandy shores of Oval Beach, or catch views of Mount Baldhead. The routes also often feature views of Kalamazoo Lake and other natural areas.

Many of these routes start near parks or designated trail access points where parking is typically available. For instance, the Roadbike loop from Kal-Haven Trail State Park begins near the state park, and the Downtown Saugatuck – Kalamazoo Lake loop starts from Wolters Woods Park. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details for recommended starting points and parking information.

Allegan County is enjoyable for road cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, especially through forested areas and farmlands. Summer is also popular, particularly for routes near Lake Michigan, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but may require specialized gear and awareness of road conditions.

While this guide focuses on routes up to moderate difficulty, the Allegan County route, at over 57 km, provides a good challenge for those seeking a longer ride. The varied terrain with rolling hills also offers opportunities for more advanced cyclists to push their limits on these traffic-free paths.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Allegan County, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, scenic roads, the diverse landscapes ranging from lakeside views to lush forests, and the overall peaceful experience of cycling away from heavy traffic. The well-maintained paved surfaces are also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect.

Many routes pass through or near charming towns like Saugatuck, which offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops. For example, the Downtown Saugatuck – Kalamazoo Lake loop takes you right through the heart of Saugatuck, providing ample opportunities for a break. It's advisable to check the specific route details and plan your stops accordingly.