The best traffic-free bike rides around Stillwater

Stillwater offers a great selection of traffic-free touring cycling routes, with over 20 options available. These routes are designed to provide a peaceful and scenic cycling experience away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, Stillwater is very accommodating for families and beginners. You'll find 5 easy routes that are perfect for a relaxed ride. Many of these utilize former railroad beds, offering gentle grades and paved surfaces. The Bavarian Hunter Restaurant – Duluth Junction loop from Grill Stand is an excellent easy option, covering just over 22 km.

The routes in Stillwater offer diverse and beautiful scenery. You'll cycle through the stunning St. Croix River Valley, enjoy picturesque riverine landscapes, and pass through wooded areas and open prairie. The area's extensive trail network, often built on former railroad beds, ensures a scenic and tranquil journey.

Absolutely! Many of Stillwater's traffic-free routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Bavarian Hunter Restaurant – Duluth Junction loop from Stillwater Boulevard & Pine Street offers a moderate 42 km circular ride.

Stillwater's routes often pass by or connect to significant landmarks. You can cycle near the historic Stillwater Lift Bridge and the modern St. Croix Crossing Bridge, which are part of the unique St. Croix River Crossing Loop Trail. The Duluth Junction is also a key intersection for several trails. For a natural wonder, the St. Croix Boom Site, a few miles north, is known for its hidden waterfall, Willow Falls.

Stillwater's extensive trail network often has convenient parking options near trailheads. Many trails, like the Brown's Creek State Trail and Gateway State Trail, have amenities including parking at their access points. Downtown Stillwater also offers various parking facilities, often close to trail entrances.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Stillwater. Spring brings lush greenery, summer provides warm weather, and fall showcases stunning autumn foliage. The paved rail-to-trail paths are typically well-maintained throughout these seasons.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, Stillwater offers several moderate routes. The Duluth Junction – Bavarian Hunter Restaurant loop from Grill Stand is a substantial 53 km route with over 300 meters of elevation gain, providing a good challenge while remaining traffic-free.

Stillwater is known for its bike-friendly amenities. Many trails have restrooms, restaurants, breweries, wineries, and cafes conveniently located near trailheads, especially in and around the historic downtown area. You'll find plenty of options to refuel and relax during or after your ride.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Stillwater, with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful St. Croix River Valley scenery, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that make for enjoyable rides.

Yes, Stillwater's trail network is well-integrated. The Brown's Creek State Trail, for instance, connects downtown Stillwater to the countryside and links directly with the Gateway State Trail. This allows for extended rides and access to a broader network of paved, multi-use paths.