Mendota Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from Citizens Cemetery
Mendota Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from Citizens Cemetery
2.6
(5)
45
riders
Mendota Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from Citizens Cemetery
03:32
44.7km
550m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 20, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 27.5 km for 6.39 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
14.8 km
Mendota Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
20.5 km
Mendota Trail Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
44.7 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
22.8 km
20.8 km
1.13 km
Surfaces
29.5 km
8.35 km
6.37 km
485 m
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Elevation
Highest point (640 m)
Lowest point (410 m)
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 27 June
25°C
19°C
97 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a substantial road cycling challenge that blends rail-trail history with varied terrain, the Mendota Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from Citizens Cemetery delivers. This moderate 27.8-mile (44.7 km) route packs in 1810 feet (552 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 3 hours and 32 minutes to complete. It's a great option for avid cyclists seeking a longer ride with scenic rewards, especially if you're prepared for mixed surfaces.
What to expect on Mendota Trail – Mendota Trail Trailhead loop from Citizens Cemetery
Expect a journey through tranquil countryside, farmlands, and forests, with the scenery shifting from open fields to lush, natural views. The route follows a former railroad corridor, meaning generally gentle grades, but don't be fooled into thinking it's all smooth sailing; while some sections are crushed stone, you'll encounter patches of 'rocky rocky rocks' that make a mountain bike or a bike with good shocks a wise choice. You'll cross seventeen restored trestle bridges, with a notable highlight being the crossing of the North Fork of the Holston River via the Sunny Side Trestle, paralleled by a 275-foot-long swinging bridge. This trail suits cyclists who appreciate historical features and natural beauty, and are ready for a varied surface that can be more challenging than typical rail-trails.
Planning your visit
The Mendota Trail became fully connected in September 2023, offering its entire 12.5 miles for use. Parking is available at the Citizens Cemetery trailhead. Amenities along the trail include a covered pavilion with picnic tables and restrooms at the Bristol trailhead, and port-a-potties in Benhams and Mendota. Be aware that cell service can be limited or absent in some remote sections, so plan accordingly for navigation and safety.
Trail details
- Distance: 27.8 miles (44.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 1810 feet (552 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 3 hours and 32 minutes
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