The best road cycling routes in Ramsey County

Ramsey County offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with nearly 200 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to moderate, with a few more challenging rides.

You can expect an extensive network of paved trails that traverse diverse landscapes. Routes feature a blend of urban and natural scenery, including riverine views along the Mississippi River, numerous lakeshores, woodlands, and open prairies. While generally flat, some routes include gentle elevation changes, providing varied terrain.

Yes, Ramsey County has many family-friendly options. Parks like Como Regional Park offer easy, paved multi-use trails that are suitable for all ages. The region's extensive paved trail network ensures there are plenty of accessible and safe routes for families to enjoy together.

Ramsey County's routes offer diverse scenery. You can cycle along the Mississippi River Corridor, past picturesque lakes like Lake Phalen and Como Lake, and through expansive parks such as Battle Creek Regional Park. Some trails, like the Gateway and Brown's Creek Trail to St. Croix Crossing Loop, transition from urban areas to woods and wetlands.

Yes, many routes in Ramsey County are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Popular examples include the Mississippi River Trail Loop, the Saint Paul Grand Round, and the White Bear Lake loop, all providing varied scenery within a circular path.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive paved trail network, the diverse scenery ranging from urban to natural landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable rides.

Many of Ramsey County's bike trails are accessible via public transportation, particularly within Saint Paul. Several bus routes serve areas near popular trailheads and parks, making it possible to reach the trails without a car. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local transit schedules.

Yes, most regional parks and major trailheads in Ramsey County offer dedicated parking facilities for visitors. For example, parks like Battle Creek Regional Park and Como Regional Park have ample parking. It's generally easy to find parking close to the start of many popular routes.

Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for road cycling in Ramsey County. The weather is pleasant, and the natural scenery is vibrant. Fall, in particular, offers beautiful foliage along many routes. While winter cycling is possible, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice on some trails.

Yes, Ramsey County offers several longer routes for endurance cyclists. The Mississippi River Trail: Twin Cities Loop, for instance, covers over 61 kilometers, providing an extended ride with diverse views. Another option is the Gateway State Trail Loop, which is over 54 kilometers long.

Many multi-use trails in Ramsey County parks are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary by park or trail segment. It's always a good idea to check the rules for the particular park or trail you plan to visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

For additional details on biking within Saint Paul, including top trails and local resources, you can visit the Visit Saint Paul website. This resource can provide further insights into urban cycling opportunities in the area.