1.
Mary Black Rail Trail – Duncan Park Lake loop from Spartanburg
111km
04:58
990m
990m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
The best traffic-free bike rides around Spartanburg
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated May 29, 2026
If you’ve ever tried to plan road cycling around Spartanburg, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many roads and trails, it’s tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. That’s where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, and we’ve pulled together a curated shortlist of the very best to save you the guesswork.
Road cycling in Spartanburg is all about variety. You’ll find yourself pedaling through rolling hills and wooded areas, connecting urban green spaces with natural preserves. Situated in the Piedmont plateau and close to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the terrain offers everything from moderate spins to more demanding climbs. While you can ride year-round, the spring and fall months offer the most comfortable temperatures for exploring.
If you only do one ride, we’d start with the challenging Mary Black Rail Trail – Duncan Park Lake loop from Spartanburg, a substantial 67.2 miles (108.2 km) that connects urban trails and natural areas for a truly diverse experience. For something a bit shorter but still rewarding, the moderate Pacolet Reservoir – Victor Hill Hotel ruins loop from Edwin M Griffin Nature Preserve, at 30.8 miles (49.6 km), offers beautiful scenery and a touch of history. With more than 70 road cyclists already exploring these routes on komoot, you’re in good company.
If you only do 2 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mary Black Rail Trail – Duncan Park Lake loop from Spartanburg | 111 km | 990 m | Hard |
| Pacolet Reservoir – Victor Hill Hotel ruins loop from Edwin M Griffin Nature Preserve | 49.6 km | 440 m | Moderate |
2.
Pacolet Reservoir – Victor Hill Hotel ruins loop from Edwin M Griffin Nature Preserve
49.6km
02:07
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
View route
See every route on the map
Tips from the Community
maniboyflex
August 13, 2024, Drayton Mills
Drayton Mills, originally built in 1902, underwent a significant transformation over a century later. Once a bustling textile mill, it has been converted into a striking apartment complex in the Romanesque Revival style. This well-preserved piece of history is now a beautiful and intriguing site along the Drayton Mills Trail, making it well worth a visit during your hike.
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maniboyflex
August 13, 2024, River Birch Trail
The River Birch Trail is a picturesque path that runs alongside Lawsons Fork Creek, offering charming views of the surrounding nature. This trail connects with the Edwin M. Griffin Park trails, providing a peaceful and easy hike. The route features a variety of terrains, including packed dirt, wooden boardwalks, and paved sections.
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maniboyflex
August 13, 2024, The Rail Yard
The Rail Yard is a small community park located along the Mary Black Rail Trail. The park features various recreational areas, including an amphitheater, a playground, picnic tables, and a bike park.
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mtm05005
July 25, 2024, The Rail Yard
The Rail Yard is a great community park along the MBF Rail Trail. The park has an amphitheater, picnic areas and a bike park.
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Alex
June 30, 2024, Mary Black Rail Trail
Mary Black Rail Trail was a very successful rail-to-rail project and one of the most popular places to hike and bike in Spartanburg. This 2-mile-long paved path also has bikes that visitors can rent from the B-Cycle station at the trailhead at Henry and Union streets.
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Alex
June 30, 2024, Drayton Mills
Drayton Mills were originally constructed in 1902; at the turn of the century, over 100 years later, they went through a massive transformation. Once a textile mill, it is now an apartment complex in the Romanesque Revival style. It is a nice piece of history and a beautiful complex now, so worth checking out on the ride.
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Matthew
June 30, 2024, Duncan Park Lake
Duncan Park Lake is a 14-acre reservoir located at the southernmost end of Duncan Park. The Duncan Park Path dead ends at the lake's dam and offers a few views from the paved path.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Spartanburg?
There are currently 7 no-traffic road cycling routes listed in Spartanburg, offering a variety of distances and challenges for cyclists looking to avoid vehicular traffic.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling options in Spartanburg?
Yes, Spartanburg offers several options suitable for families. The Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail is a popular choice, providing a paved, multi-use path that connects downtown Spartanburg with various amenities. While not explicitly listed as 'easy' in our guide, rail trails are generally known for their gentle grades and traffic-free environment, making them ideal for family rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes in Spartanburg?
Spartanburg is situated in the Piedmont plateau, characterized by rolling hills and wooded areas. While many no-traffic routes, especially rail trails, offer relatively flat sections, some routes may include moderate elevation changes. For example, the Pacolet Reservoir – Victor Hill Hotel ruins loop from Edwin M Griffin Nature Preserve features over 430 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout.
Are there any scenic landmarks or attractions along these no-traffic routes?
Absolutely! Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting points. For instance, the Duncan Park Lake – Mary Black Rail Trail loop from Arkwright takes you past Duncan Park Lake. The region also boasts natural beauty like Croft State Park and Glendale Shoals Preserve, which are often accessible from or near cycling paths.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in Spartanburg?
The spring and fall months generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions in Spartanburg, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are typically mild but can have occasional cold snaps. Checking local weather forecasts is always recommended before heading out.
Are there any loop routes available for no-traffic road cycling?
Yes, several loop routes are available. The River Birch Trail – Mary Black Rail Trail loop from Spartanburg is a challenging option covering over 100 km, while the Pacolet Reservoir – Victor Hill Hotel ruins loop from Edwin M Griffin Nature Preserve offers a moderate 49 km loop.
What is the difficulty level of the no-traffic road cycling routes?
The routes in this guide range from moderate to difficult. For example, the Duncan Park Lake – Mary Black Rail Trail loop from Arkwright is rated as moderate, while the extensive River Birch Trail – Mary Black Rail Trail loop from Spartanburg is considered difficult due to its length and elevation gain.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Parking availability varies by route. For popular spots like the Mary Black Rail Trail, there are designated parking areas. For other routes, you might find parking at trailheads or nearby public spaces. It's advisable to check specific route details or local government websites for parking information before your ride.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, especially near urban trails like the Mary Black Rail Trail, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities. Spartanburg's commitment to being a Bicycle Friendly Community means many areas are designed with cyclists in mind, offering convenient access to services.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about no-traffic cycling in Spartanburg?
The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience in Spartanburg, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, scenic routes that allow for an immersive experience without the distraction of traffic, as well as the diverse terrain suitable for various skill levels.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic road cycling trails?
Policies regarding dogs on trails can vary. Generally, dogs on leashes are permitted on multi-use paths like the Mary Black Rail Trail and in many parks. However, it's always best to check the specific regulations for each trail or park you plan to visit to ensure compliance and a pleasant experience for everyone.
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