The best traffic-free bike rides around Dublin

This guide features 8 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Dublin, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 2 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes to explore.

The routes primarily feature greenways and trails, such as the Iron Horse Trail and the Alamo Canal Trail. These are generally flat or have gentle inclines, making them suitable for touring. For example, the Iron Horse Trail – Coyote Creek bridge loop has an elevation gain of only 25 meters, while the longer Iron Horse Trail loop from West Dublin/Pleasanton includes more significant climbs, reaching over 900 meters of elevation.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Iron Horse Trail – Coyote Creek bridge loop from Dublin/Pleasanton is an excellent option, covering about 10 km with minimal elevation gain. Another easy choice is the Alamo Canal Trail – Arroyo Valle Centennial Trail loop, which is around 31 km long.

The routes in this guide are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained surfaces and the peaceful, car-free environment. The Iron Horse Trail is a particularly well-loved segment, forming the backbone of several popular loops.

Absolutely! Most of the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing a return trip. Examples include the Iron Horse Trail loop from Dublin/Pleasanton and the Rolling Hills Trail loop.

Along these no-traffic routes, you can encounter various points of interest. The Iron Horse Trail itself is a significant feature. You might also pass by natural areas like Sycamore Grove Park or cross the Coyote Creek bridge. For broader exploration, consider visiting Sunol Peak or the Vista Peak Loop Trail Viewpoint, which offer scenic views.

While the routes focus on natural and greenway experiences, you can find interesting landmarks nearby. For instance, the Olivina Gate and the Ukraina Historical Landmark are within reach. You might also spot unique structures like the Centennial Park Totem pole.

Dublin's climate is generally mild, making cycling enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and summer (April to September) offer the most pleasant weather with longer daylight hours and less rain, ideal for exploring the greenways and trails. However, even in autumn and winter, many of these routes remain accessible and offer a different kind of scenic beauty, provided you dress appropriately for cooler, potentially wetter conditions.

Some routes and nearby parks offer facilities for cyclists. For example, the Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, Oak Tree Picnic area is a highlight that provides amenities. It's always a good idea to check specific route details on komoot for information on available facilities like restrooms, water stops, or picnic spots along your chosen path.

Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those utilizing greenways like the Iron Horse Trail, have designated parking areas near their trailheads. These are often located in or near urban parks or community centers, providing convenient access. We recommend checking the starting points of individual komoot tours for specific parking information and directions to the trailheads.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a greater challenge, the Iron Horse Trail loop from West Dublin/Pleasanton is a difficult route spanning nearly 79 km with over 900 meters of elevation gain. This route offers a substantial ride while maintaining a no-traffic environment for much of its length.