The best traffic-free bike rides in Vanderburgh County

Vanderburgh County offers several dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. This guide features 3 routes, with 2 rated as easy and 1 as moderate, providing options for various skill levels.

The no-traffic routes in Vanderburgh County primarily feature paved trails. You can expect a mix of urban landscapes, natural areas, and riverfront views. Some trails, like the USI-Burdette Trail, offer gently sloped hills, open fields, and old-growth forests, while areas like the 'River Bottoms' are known for extensive flat cycling.

Yes, many of the paved, no-traffic trails are suitable for families. The Lamsco Park Bridge – Sunset Park Riverfront loop from University of Evansville is an easy option, offering a pleasant ride along the riverfront. The Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage is also a great family-friendly choice, providing safe and scenic paths away from vehicle traffic.

Vanderburgh County's no-traffic routes offer diverse scenery. Along the Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage, you can enjoy views of the Ohio River, the Evansville Museum, and the USS LST-325 naval landing ship. The USI-Burdette Trail provides a natural setting with forests and open fields, connecting to the amenities of Burdette Park. The Rivertown Trail in nearby Newburgh also offers picturesque Ohio Riverfront views.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Lamsco Park Bridge – Sunset Park Riverfront loop from University of Evansville and the Bittner Lake loop from Scott School are both circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Vanderburgh County, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat. Winter cycling is possible, but check weather conditions for ice or snow on paved trails.

Many trailheads and parks along the no-traffic routes offer convenient parking. For instance, routes starting from the University of Southern Indiana or Scott School typically have parking available. Burdette Park also provides ample parking for access to the USI-Burdette Trail. For routes along the Pigeon Creek Greenway, various access points within Evansville offer parking options.

The komoot community rates the no-traffic road cycling experience in Vanderburgh County highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved trails, the safety of being away from vehicle traffic, and the diverse scenery that ranges from urban riverfronts to natural wooded areas.

While many routes are easy to moderate, the longer distances can provide a good workout. The Bittner Lake loop from Scott School is a moderate route spanning over 44 kilometers, offering a more extended ride for those looking for a challenge on traffic-free paths.

Vanderburgh County is actively expanding its network of multi-use pathways, making connections between trails increasingly possible. The Pigeon Creek Greenway Passage is planned to eventually encircle the city, and trails like the USI-Burdette Trail link significant areas, allowing for longer, continuous rides across different landscapes.

While dedicated facilities directly on every trail segment may vary, routes that pass through urban areas, near parks, or connect to university campuses (like the University of Southern Indiana) often provide access to restrooms, cafes, or other amenities nearby. It's always a good idea to check specific route details or plan stops in advance.