The best cycling routes in South Carolina

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Swamp Rabbit Trail to Legacy Park, a route that spans 12.1 miles (19.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 359 feet (109 metres). This pleasant journey, taking about 1 hour and 8 minutes, offers a diverse landscape as you pedal alongside the Reedy River. You will pass through both shaded natural areas and vibrant urban settings, enjoying views of creeks and unique bridges. A highlight of your ride will be Falls Park on the Reedy, where you can admire the impressive waterfalls and the iconic Liberty Bridge. The trail's smooth surface makes for a relaxing and accessible cycling experience.

The trail is mostly paved with asphalt, making it suitable for a wide range of users and easy to navigate on your touring bicycle. You will find public restrooms and water fountains conveniently located at major parks along the route, ensuring you have access to facilities. There are also numerous places to stop and refuel, whether you need a snack or a full meal. While the trail can get busy, especially on weekends, its wide surface generally allows for a pleasant touring experience.

This route is part of the larger Swamp Rabbit Trail network, a significant greenway that connects communities and natural spaces. It offers a unique blend of urban exploration and natural beauty, culminating at Legacy Park, a beautiful 20-acre green space known for its colorful landscaping. The trail's development has transformed former railway lines into a popular recreational corridor, providing a vital link for cyclists and pedestrians in the region.

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure along the Doodle Trail, a moderate 17.1 miles (27.5 km) paved rail-to-trail. You will experience a smooth ride as you gain 1219 feet (372 metres) in elevation, taking approximately 1 hours and 46 minutes to complete. The route offers diverse scenery, winding through forested areas, past lush rolling pastures, and alongside pine forests. Keep an eye out for the two picturesque wooden bridges that add charm to your journey. You might even catch glimpses of the distant Blue Ridge Mountains on a clear day.

The Doodle Trail is open daily from dawn to dusk, making it accessible for early morning rides or late afternoon excursions. You can start your journey from either Easley's Doodle Park or Pickens' Railroad Park, both offering excellent amenities. These include restrooms, water fountains, playgrounds, and convenient bike service stations. Additionally, a bike repair station and a trail map are available at Rotary Park, located roughly halfway along the route.

This historic rail-to-trail connects the cities of Easley and Pickens, transforming a former railway line into a recreational path. The trail's name, "Doodle," comes from the local nickname for the train that once ran this route, known for its slow,

Cycle the Spanish Moss Trail, an easy 20.1 miles (32.3 km) touring cycling route through South Carolina's Lowcountry. You will glide along a flat, paved rail-trail, shaded by ancient live oaks draped with iconic Spanish moss. The route offers expansive views of salt marshes and waterways, where you might spot coastal wildlife like roseate spoonbills. With only 193 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, this ride takes about 1 hour and 48 minutes, making it a relaxing journey for all skill levels. You can also look for the historic 1901 Spanish Moss Trail Train Depot along the way.

Planning your ride on the Spanish Moss Trail is straightforward, with multiple parking areas available at various trailheads. You will find benches for resting and pet waste stations conveniently placed along the route. Some access points even provide bike repair stations and restrooms for your comfort. Remember that only Class 1 e-bikes, which are pedal-assist without a throttle, are permitted on the trail to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

This paved rail-trail is a highlight of the region, transforming an old railway line into a vibrant corridor for outdoor activity. It offers a unique perspective on the Lowcountry's natural beauty, from its distinctive flora to its diverse coastal wildlife. The trail's flat profile and well-maintained surface make it an ideal choice for families and casual riders seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

Embark on the Paris Mountain and Swamp Rabbit Trail Loop, a touring bicycle route that offers a compelling blend of urban greenway and challenging mountain roads. This moderate 19.5 miles (31.4 km) journey includes a significant 1300 feet (396 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 2 minutes. You will cycle through the vibrant downtown Greenville, past the iconic Falls Park on the Reedy, before transitioning to the serene, wooded slopes of Paris Mountain, where you might spot local wildlife amidst mountain laurel and rhododendron.

When planning your ride, know that the Swamp Rabbit Trail section provides convenient access points, parking, restrooms, and water fountains, making it easy to take breaks. While the Paris Mountain portion features notable climbs, the entire route is accessible for touring cyclists, primarily utilizing paved surfaces. Be prepared for the elevation changes, especially on the mountain, but enjoy the well-maintained paths throughout.

This route stands out for its unique contrast, seamlessly connecting the bustling city life with the tranquil natural beauty of Paris Mountain State Park. You will experience the lively atmosphere around Furman University and the architectural charm of Liberty Bridge, then shift to the quiet, forested environment offering scenic views. It is a journey that highlights the diverse landscapes and experiences available in the region.

Cycle the Seabrook and Kiawah Islands loop, a moderate touring bicycle route covering 31.9 miles (51.4 km) through the Lowcountry's diverse landscapes. You will pedal past lush maritime forests and expansive marshlands, catching refreshing glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean. With a gentle elevation gain of just 101 feet (31 metres), this ride offers a relaxed pace. Plan for about 2 hours and 55 minutes to fully enjoy the island scenery.

When planning your visit, you will find that the majority of the paved trails on Kiawah Island are flat and clearly marked, making them suitable for various skill levels. Bike rentals are conveniently available directly on the islands, and many services can even deliver them to your accommodation. While most of the route is smooth, be aware that some natural segments, particularly near Capt. Sam's Spit, might be unpaved and present a slightly greater challenge.

This route offers a fantastic opportunity to observe the rich wildlife of the South Carolina coast. Keep an eye out for abundant birdlife and deer as you cycle, and you might even spot alligators in the ponds and marshes. Near Captain Sam's Inlet, you could witness dolphins strand feeding, a unique natural spectacle that highlights the area's vibrant ecosystem.

Embark on the Greenville Watershed loop for a challenging touring bicycle ride that takes you deep into lush forested areas. You will cycle 38.7 miles (62.3 km) and conquer a significant 3024 feet (922 metres) of elevation gain, typically completing the route in about 4 hours and 6 minutes. As you pedal, you'll often find yourself under a canopy of trees, enjoying peaceful views of the pristine North Saluda Reservoir and the calming sound of running water.

When planning your visit, be aware that some parts of the route, especially on the Hendersonville side, have poor road conditions with cracks and rough spots. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, consider riding during the week, as weekends can be quite busy with other cyclists. Parking is generally available near the various starting points for the Greenville Watershed bike routes.

This difficult route offers a serene ambiance, particularly on weekdays, making it an ideal choice if you are seeking a substantial workout on two wheels away from city noise. The quiet setting allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the watershed. It is a popular local option for those who appreciate a long, demanding ride through scenic landscapes.

The Greenway Trail offers an easy touring bicycle ride, covering 5.3 miles (8.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 82 feet (25 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. As you cycle, you'll enjoy picturesque views along the Broad, Saluda, and Congaree Rivers, with the paved path winding through shaded areas lined with dogwood and oak trees. Keep an eye out for the historic Columbia Canal and scenic overlooks, which are great spots for birdwatching.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Greenway Trail consists of several unconnected segments, so you might need to navigate city streets to link them up. Access points are often conveniently located near local amenities. Along the route, you'll find lighted paths, emergency call boxes, restrooms, and water fountains. Weekends and areas near parking can get busy, so consider an early start for a quieter experience.

This route is a highlight of the Three Rivers Greenway, offering a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty where three rivers converge. The Saluda River Greenway section is particularly beautiful, providing a serene backdrop for your ride. It's a great way to experience the local environment and history while enjoying a straightforward and accessible cycling path.

The Hulk is an easy 5.5-mile (8.8 km) route, typically completed in about 49 minutes, with a gentle elevation gain of 111 feet (34 metres). As you navigate the trail, you will find yourself winding through peaceful pine forests, which offer welcome shade on warmer days. The route also opens up to fields of tall grass, providing varied scenery, and you might catch glimpses of the Intracoastal Waterway, a notable feature of the area.

Before you head out, be aware that while listed as a touring cycling route, The Hulk is primarily designed for mountain biking and trail running. Its singletrack nature and technical features, including switchbacks, berms, and jumps, are better suited for mountain bikes. The trail operates as a one-directional system for bikers to manage traffic flow and enhance safety. Parking is conveniently available at the Carolina Forest Bike Run Park.

The terrain on The Hulk consists of packed dirt, pine straw, and occasional loose sand, with roots and man-made hills adding to the experience. This design specifically caters to mountain biking, offering a dynamic ride for those with the appropriate equipment. If you are looking for a trail that challenges your mountain biking skills, this route provides a unique opportunity within Horry County Bike & Run Park.

Embark on a touring bicycle adventure along the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail, a moderate 38.4-mile (61.8 km) route that offers a diverse cycling experience. You will pedal through vibrant urban landscapes, past the iconic Liberty Bridge and Falls Park on the Reedy in downtown Greenville, before transitioning into more serene, wooded sections. The journey involves a manageable 1239 feet (378 metres) of elevation gain, making it an enjoyable ride for many skill levels, typically completed in about 3 hours and 46 minutes.

When planning your visit, you will find the trail is well-maintained and generally flat, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of cyclists. Numerous amenities are available along the way, including benches for rest and gazebos for shade. You can also stop at various trailside restaurants, cafes, and shops, particularly in towns like Travelers Rest and downtown Greenville. Parking is conveniently located at multiple access points along the route, and bike rentals are offered in several locations if you need them.

This multi-use greenway provides a unique opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and urban charm. As you cycle, you will follow the scenic Reedy River and pass through the picturesque Furman University campus, with views of its beautiful lake and clock tower. The trail seamlessly connects different communities, offering a continuous and engaging path that highlights both the historical and modern aspects of the area.